Mazda In-Talk with Panasonic to Use Its Cylindrical EV Batteries

Unlike the Koreans, Japanese automakers are still somewhat slow in their EV adoption game, with several of them still betting on other alternatives rather than going full-blown EVs. However, things perhaps will change as several brands like Mazda have upshifted their electromobility plans in order to meet the growing demand for such.

Panasonic Energy's lithium-ion cylindrical batteries

In an attempt to do so, Mazda has announced that it is entering into talks with renowned battery manufacturer Panasonic Energy to use their proprietary cylindrical lithium-ion batteries in Mazda’s future EV models. The marque aims to establish a medium- to long-term partnership with the battery manufacturer.

This lithium-ion cylindrical battery by Panasonic Energy is the same kind of battery that’s been used on several Tesla EVs, aside from the marque’s proprietary battery.

Commenting on this announcement, Panasonic Energy CEO Kazuo Tadanobu said, “Collaboration with Mazda will be a major step toward the achievement of our mission of realising a society in which the pursuit of happiness and a sustainable environment are harmonised”.

“With our superior technology and extensive experience, we will drive growth of the lithium-ion battery industry and further accelerate our efforts to achieve zero emissions,” the CEO added.

Meanwhile, Mazda’s director and senior managing executive officer Masahiro Moro said, “We are delighted to collaborate with Panasonic Energy, which has been a pioneer in automotive lithium-ion batteries, developing high-quality products.”

2023 Mazda MX-30 is the sole EV model on sale by the marque

This announcement is in-line with Mazda’s initial EV plan to have at least 25% of its new vehicle sales to come from all-electric vehicles by the end of the decade. Several Mazda execs have also insisted on having fast-charging capabilities over long ranges, which is what Panasonic’s cylindrical batteries are known for.

Should this partnership come into fruition, it will see Mazda using batteries manufactured at Panasonic’s North American and Japanese plants, with the former allowing them to get lucrative tax incentives from the US government. Said incentives dictate that buyers will receive thousands of dollars in tax incentives if they are buying EVs using batteries manufactured in the State.

However, it is important to note that this partnership has not been formed yet as both parties are still in talk. On the other hand, it seems that Mazda is optimistic that this partnership will be formed, so much so the marque even planned to launch new EV models that are powered by Panasonic’s cylindrical battery in the second half of this decade.