In a recent report by Reuters, it was revealed that Panasonic has completed the necessary preparations to begin manufacturing 4680-format lithium-ion battery cells at a factory in Japan. The company is currently sending sample cells produced at the factory in Wakayama to automaker customers for approval, with production set to start once approval is obtained. This move comes as Panasonic aims to supply batteries to Tesla, one of the chief proponents of the larger 4680 cells, which measure 46 millimeters in diameter and 80 inches tall, in contrast to the company’s current 2170 cylindrical cells that measure 21 millimeters and 70 millimeters, respectively.
The transition to 4680 cells has been strongly advocated by Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who sees them as pivotal to reducing the cost of electric vehicles and enabling power-intensive applications like the Tesla Semi and Cybertruck. Tesla has already begun manufacturing its own 4680 cells but has faced challenges in scaling up production. Musk reportedly issued a warning to the Tesla battery team in July, stating that the issues needed to be resolved promptly, or else the large-format cells would face abandonment.
Despite the anticipated difficulties in mass producing the 4680 cells, Panasonic has made progress towards its production goals, with mass production expected to commence during the fiscal year ending in March 2024. While other battery suppliers have shown interest in developing large-format cells, none have been able to match the progress made by Panasonic and Tesla in scaling them up. For instance, CATL has pursued a different approach with cell-to-pack technology, which eliminates the modules used in traditional battery-pack designs. CATL claimed that their current version of cell-to-pack technology could deliver 13% more power than Tesla’s 4680 cells, albeit at a slower pace.
In this article, we will delve deeper into Panasonic’s plans to manufacture 4680-format lithium-ion battery cells, the significance of transitioning from 2170 cells, challenges faced in mass production, and the potential impact on the electric vehicle industry.
### Transition to 4680 Cells
The shift from 2170 cylindrical cells to 4680 cells marks a significant milestone in the development of lithium-ion battery technology. Panasonic’s decision to manufacture 4680 cells aligns with the growing demand for larger, high-capacity batteries to power electric vehicles and energy storage systems. With Tesla advocating for the use of 4680 cells in its vehicles, Panasonic’s move reflects a strategic partnership that aims to drive innovation and cost reduction in the electric vehicle market.
### Challenges in Mass Production
Mass producing 4680 cells poses several challenges for Panasonic, as highlighted by the anticipated difficulties in scaling up production. The need for new techniques and processes to manufacture these larger cells underscores the complexity of transitioning from the 2170 format to the 4680 format. Overcoming potential issues such as overheating and ensuring quality control throughout the production process will be crucial for Panasonic to meet the demands of automaker customers and maintain a competitive edge in the market.
### Impact on Electric Vehicle Industry
The successful production of 4680 cells by Panasonic has the potential to reshape the electric vehicle industry by enabling the mass adoption of larger, more energy-dense batteries. As automakers seek to increase the range and performance of electric vehicles, the availability of cost-effective 4680 cells could accelerate the transition to electric mobility. Moreover, the scalability of 4680 cells could support the development of electric vehicles for a wide range of applications, including heavy-duty trucks, buses, and energy storage solutions.
### Future Outlook for Panasonic and Tesla
The collaboration between Panasonic and Tesla in manufacturing 4680 cells signifies a shared vision for advancing battery technology and driving innovation in the electric vehicle industry. By overcoming the challenges associated with mass production and ensuring the quality and reliability of 4680 cells, Panasonic and Tesla can position themselves as leaders in the development of next-generation lithium-ion batteries. The success of this partnership could pave the way for new advancements in electric vehicle technology and sustainable energy solutions, shaping the future of transportation and energy storage.
### Conclusion
As Panasonic gears up to start manufacturing 4680-format lithium-ion battery cells, the industry is poised for a transformative shift towards larger, more powerful battery technology. The transition from 2170 cells to 4680 cells represents a milestone in battery innovation, with the potential to unlock new opportunities for electric vehicles and energy storage systems. By addressing the challenges of mass production and meeting the demands of automaker customers, Panasonic and Tesla are paving the way for a sustainable and efficient future in the electric vehicle industry.