Panasonic Energy has completed preparations for mass production of its new 4680-format cylindrical lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles. The company has retooled its Wakayama plant in Japan as the main production facility. Mass production is expected to begin after a final evaluation of the facilities.
Five times larger in volume and capacity
The 4680 battery cell, which is five times larger in volume and capacity than the conventional 21700 cell, is regarded as having the potential to reduce the cost for electric vehicles. According to the company, the smaller number of cells per battery pack helps make manufacturing processes more efficient. At Wakayama, Panasonic also wants to test new production methods. Once successfully implemented, they are intended to be used in other plants as well.
