Panasonic targets breakthrough EV battery within two years
Panasonic (6752.T) said it aims to develop a new type of higher-capacity battery in about two years, a potential game-changer for electric vehicles and a boost for key customer Tesla (TSLA.O).
The Japanese company is working on an anode-free design that could deliver what it calls a “world-leading level” of energy density by the end of 2027. If successful, the innovation would increase battery capacity by about 25%, extending the range of Tesla’s Model Y by nearly 90 miles (145 km) without enlarging the pack.
Alternatively, Panasonic could use the technology to create lighter, potentially cheaper batteries that maintain current driving ranges with smaller packs. A company executive discussed the project ahead of a Thursday presentation by Shoichiro Watanabe, chief technology officer at Panasonic Energy.
The design removes the anode during manufacturing. Instead, a lithium metal anode forms inside the cell after its first charge, freeing up space for more cathode materials—nickel, cobalt, and aluminum—that boost capacity without increasing size. Panasonic also aims to cut the proportion of costly nickel.
While several global battery producers are pursuing similar technology, Panasonic stressed its version could deliver industry-leading performance. The company declined to provide details on manufacturing costs or whether the advance would allow Tesla to lower vehicle prices.
The push comes as Tesla faces growing competition. Reuters reported earlier this month that Tesla’s U.S. market share fell to its lowest in almost eight years in August, pressured by a flood of rival EV offerings and its aging product lineup.