In a significant development for the electric vehicle (EV) industry, Panasonic Energy has inked a long-term supply agreement with H&T Recharge for lithium-ion battery cans in North America. H&T Recharge, boasting over 40 years of expertise as a battery component manufacturer, specializes in providing cylindrical batteries for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. With a global production capacity exceeding 12 billion cans annually, the partnership aims to fortify Panasonic's commitment to expanding its production of safe and efficient EV batteries.

H&T Recharge's role as a crucial player in the battery component manufacturing sector is underlined by its extensive experience in supplying cylindrical battery cans globally. With a joint production volume exceeding 12 billion cans per year, H&T Recharge has established itself as a reliable and seasoned partner in the lithium-ion battery supply chain. The company's expertise and track record make it an ideal collaborator for Panasonic Energy in advancing their EV battery production capabilities.

The collaboration between Panasonic Energy and H&T Recharge is not a recent development, as the two entities have been strategic partners since 2017. During this period, H&T Recharge has consistently supplied approximately 40 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of battery cans annually to Panasonic and Tesla's Giga Nevada. This enduring partnership signifies a successful history of collaboration, highlighting the reliability and mutual benefit derived from their working relationship.

The focus of this new supply agreement extends to Panasonic Energy's upcoming facility in Kansas, anticipated to commence operations by March 2025. As part of Panasonic's ambitious $4 billion investment in the Kansas plant, the facility will concentrate on the production of 2170 cylindrical cells. This strategic move aligns with the increasing demand for EV batteries in the United States, positioning Panasonic Energy to play a pivotal role in meeting the surging market needs.

Underlining their commitment to cutting-edge manufacturing practices, H&T Recharge plans to install state-of-the-art production lines at Panasonic's Kansas facility. The objective is to achieve an annual production capacity of 30 GWh of battery cans, a testament to their dedication to staying at the forefront of technological advancements in lithium-ion battery manufacturing.

The $4 billion investment by Panasonic Energy in the Kansas facility signifies a proactive approach to technology adoption and infrastructure development. By focusing on the production of 2170 cylindrical cells, Panasonic aims to cater to the growing demand for electric vehicles, contributing significantly to the sustainable transportation landscape in North America.

Notably, Panasonic and Tesla maintain their enduring partnership in battery manufacturing. As a result, Panasonic, a renowned Japanese battery supplier, is poised to produce the advanced 4680 cells at its Kansas plant, aligning with the latest developments in EV battery technology. This collaboration solidifies their shared commitment to advancing battery technologies and meeting the evolving requirements of the electric vehicle market. As these industry leaders forge ahead in their collaboration, the future of lithium-ion EV battery production in North America appears brighter than ever.