Panasonic’s 4680 battery

November 4, 2021

Panasonic’s 4680 battery

 

On November 4, according to Nikkei Asia, Panasonic CEO Tadanobu Matsushita said in the latest interview that the 4680 battery is close to mass production and that it is also considering supplying companies other than Tesla in the future.
 
Matsushita Tadanobu Kazuo said that the 4680 battery technology goal has been basically achieved, product development is basically completed, and its capacity is about five times that of the current 2170 battery. Mass production of 4680 batteries requires new technology, and Panasonic is building a new production line in Japan, which will be launched in phases.
 
Before the Tesla Battery Day in 2020, Tesla discussed with Panasonic. After studying the cost, the balance of the vehicle itself, and other possibilities brought about by the cylindrical battery, the 4680 was confirmed as a car battery. Optimal size.
 
When asked whether to supply 4680 batteries to other companies such as Apple, Matsushita Tadanobu said that Tesla is a close partner of Panasonic and supplying them with batteries is the number one priority, but if there is a margin in production, they will consider Supply to other companies such as Apple.
 
Tesla is currently the world's highest-selling electric car company, and its development trend is good. Tesla's orders alone can feed Panasonic to a greater extent. However, Tesla does not use 4680 batteries in all models. The Model 3, Model Y basic version, and the upcoming $25,000 low-cost model all put cost as the first consideration. They are in the long run. For a period of time, cheaper lithium iron phosphate batteries will be adopted.
 
Eggs cannot be placed in one basket, Tesla will implement a multi-supplier strategy, and Panasonic will also seek more customers. There are still many variables in the smart electric vehicle market. Big Apple's cars will also be available in the next few years. Although Tesla is currently competitive, it is hard to say that it will stay ahead. Panasonic is undoubtedly more secure in seeking cooperation with other companies. .
 
In addition to the field of household vehicles, trucks are also experiencing the journey of oil-to-electricity. The truck is heavy, it costs a lot of gas to start at traffic lights, and the cost of electric trucks is much lower. However, many trucks have to drive continuously for long distances. Lithium iron phosphate batteries cannot meet this requirement for the time being. Panasonic hopes to provide batteries for more electric trucks. At present, it will not consider producing lithium iron phosphate batteries.