Japanese battery manufacturer Panasonic Energy is set to begin mass production of its new 4680 cylindrical electric vehicle (EV) lithium-ion batteries.
Panasonic’s new 4680 batteries – so named for the dimensions of each battery cell, 46 millimetres in diameter and 80 millimetres in height – are a step change in battery technology and boast substantial improvements over more traditional 2170 cells (21mm in diameter and 70mm in height).
Possessing five-times the energy capacity of a 2170 cell, the new 4680 battery cells can therefore extend EV driving range and reduce the number of cells required for the same battery pack capacity.
These improvements are hoped to make battery packs more efficient in the assembly process, ultimately leading to lower battery costs, making EVs more affordable to the wider market.
However, manufacturing 4680 battery cells requires more advanced technology and expertise, but Panasonic has pioneered a mass production method for these high-performance 4680 cells in what the company expects to be a new benchmark for the industry.
Panasonic Energy said this week it had completed preparations for mass production of the 4680 battery cells at its Wakayama factory in Western Japan, which will serve as the primary manufacturing facility for the new cells.
Roughly 400 staff are expected to be involved in the development and production of next generation batteries at the Wakayama factory by early next year. Panasonic is also aiming for “virtually zero CO2 emissions” during production through the utilisation of solar and onshore wind power.
“This milestone is the result of years of expertise in cylindrical lithium-ion battery manufacturing,” said Kazuo Tadanobu, president and executive officer at Panasonic Energy.
“I’m confident it will significantly revolutionize the battery and EV industry. As we add the 4680 cell to our lineup, we’ll cater to a broader range of needs, further promoting the use of EVs and advancing our mission of fostering a sustainable society.”
Established in 1991, the Wakayama factory has undergone a substantial transformation and is intended to now serve not only as the primary manufacturing facility, but also as a demonstration hub for new products and methods. The factory will also develop new processes that can be implemented at other factories around the globe.
Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.