panasonic will supply batteries for electric models Lucid Motors. In fact, the Japanese company signed a multi-year supply agreement with an American manufacturer. The first batteries for the automaker’s vehicles will be delivered in 2023. The deal is calculated until 2031.
Panasonic-made batteries will be used in both the Lucid Air electric sedan and the upcoming Gravity electric SUV. The automaker notes that the batteries the Japanese company will supply will allow it to support an increase in production of its electric sedan. Peter RawlinsonLucid Motors CEO commented:
Panasonic is a fantastic partner with innovative technology and rich experience. This deal will help us meet the growing demand for lithium-ion batteries as we continue to ramp up production across the entire Lucid Air line in 2023. We plan to start production of our Gravity SUV in 2024.
The cells were originally intended for Lucid Motors will be made in Japan. Later, they will come from a new plant that Panasonic will build in De Soto, Kansas.
Today, Panasonic is one of the main suppliers of batteries for Tesla. However, it is no secret that the Japanese company wants to expand its presence in the automotive sector by supplying batteries to more customers. It is for this reason that it is expanding its production capacity. The new US site in Kansas is part of this strategy. A research center will also be built inside the new plant.
Total investment it’s about 4 billion dollars. After reaching full capacity, the new plant will be able to create about 4,000 new jobs. In addition, it appears that Panasonic will also be producing 4680 format cells on this site, which will be supplied to both Tesla and other customers.
About the deal with Lucid Motors, Kazuo TadanobuPresident and CEO of Panasonic Energy, commented:
With the growing electrification of the automotive market, partnerships with leading electric vehicle manufacturers such as Lucid are central to our mission. This partnership will help us accelerate the growth of the lithium-ion battery industry and bring the world closer to a zero-emissions future.
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Source: HD Motori
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