Panasonic is targeting the development of a higher-capacity battery within the next two years, in a bid to extend the driving range of electric vehicles in what could be a significant advance for the Tesla supplier.
The Japanese firm is working on battery technology that would eliminate the anode during manufacturing, an innovation expected to deliver a “world-leading level” of energy density by the end of 2027, according to the company.
If successful, the advancement would boost battery capacity by 25%, potentially increasing the driving range of Tesla’s entry-level Model Y SUV by nearly 90 miles (about 145 kilometers) without altering the battery pack’s size.
Alternatively, Panasonic could choose to apply the technology to create lighter, potentially lower-cost batteries by maintaining current driving ranges while reducing the battery’s physical footprint.
The technology is also being explored by other leading battery manufacturers worldwide.
In Panasonic’s proposed design, no anode exists during manufacturing; instead, a lithium metal anode forms after the battery’s first charge. This design frees up space for additional active cathode materials—namely nickel, cobalt, and aluminum—thereby raising capacity without changing battery volume. The company also plans to decrease the proportion of nickel, which is more expensive relative to other ingredients.
Panasonic declined to comment on whether the technology would allow Tesla to cut prices or on any specifics regarding manufacturing costs.
