Panasonic Energy and Mazda Motor Corporation have announced plans to collaborate on the supply of next-generation cylindrical lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles, with production slated to begin in 2027. This partnership aims to expand Japan’s battery manufacturing base and support the country’s push towards electric vehicle (EV) adoption.
The collaboration is part of Mazda’s strategic roadmap, which divides its transition to electric vehicles into phases leading up to 2030. The first battery electric vehicle (BEV) model based on Mazda’s dedicated EV platform is expected to launch by 2027, using Panasonic Energy’s batteries.
Production will take place at Panasonic’s Suminoe and Kaizuka factories in Osaka, with an anticipated domestic output of 10GWh annually by 2030. This project aligns with Japan’s broader goals of strengthening domestic battery supply chains, as outlined by the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry, which approved the joint venture. The Japanese government views battery production as essential to achieving its carbon neutrality target by 2050.
Mazda’s President and CEO, Masahiro Moro, and Panasonic Energy’s President and CEO, Kazuo Tadanobu, highlighted that the collaboration will not only secure a stable battery supply for the automotive sector but also reinforce Japan’s competitive edge in the global battery market. 
