Mazda Powers Up with Panasonic Forge Battery Partnership

April 18th, 2024 by

Silver Panasonic Battery

Mazda Motor Corporation and Panasonic Energy have concluded discussions spanning nine months, aimed at forging a medium- to long-term partnership for the provision of cylindrical automotive lithium-ion batteries.

Beginning their dialogue in June 2023, the two Japanese giants have now officially announced an agreement regarding the supply of these cylindrical batteries for automotive purposes. While specifics regarding the partnership remain undisclosed at this juncture, both Mazda and Panasonic have assured that further details will be unveiled in due course.

This development echoes a similar trajectory to Panasonic’s negotiations with Subaru, culminating in a corresponding agreement for the supply of cylindrical automotive lithium-ion batteries.

Speculation arises regarding Mazda and Subaru’s interest in Panasonic’s latest high-capacity cylindrical batteries, possibly the 4680-type or a variant thereof, characterized by a diameter of 46 mm and height of 80 mm. Panasonic’s timeline aims for the inaugural launch of the 4680-type batteries between April and September 2024. While Panasonic also offers smaller types such as the 1865 and 2170, as well as prismatic cells, the focus remains predominantly on cylindrical variants.

An intriguing prospect emerges regarding Panasonic’s potential initial production of the 4680-type batteries in Japan, possibly earmarked for Mazda and Subaru. Simultaneously, should Panasonic commence 4680-type production in the U.S. for Tesla, other automotive brands may follow suit in placing orders to ensure access to local battery supply and capitalize on incentives.

Photo Source: Mazda Newsroom

Posted in Mazda