Panasonic Energy Gears Up for Mass Production of 4680 EV Batteries Source : https://www.evlife.my/blog/panasonic-energy-gears-up-for-mass-production-of-4680-ev-batteries Panasonic Holdings' energy unit has finalized preparations for the mass production of its 4680 electric vehicle (EV) batteries. The company announced that its renovated plant in Wakayama will serve as the primary factory for producing these advanced cells, which boast five times the capacity of the smaller 2170 cylindrical batteries¹. The 4680 cells are expected to significantly enhance the driving range of electric vehicles while reducing the number of cells needed to achieve the same battery pack capacity. This innovation marks a crucial step forward in the EV industry, as automakers strive to improve efficiency and performance. Panasonic Energy has already sent samples of the 4680 batteries to some of its automotive partners and plans to commence production once it receives approval from these clients. The company aims to start production within the first half of the current business year, which began in April. The Wakayama plant is projected to employ around 400 staff members by March 2025, focusing on the development and production of the new batteries. This facility will also serve as a testing ground for processes that could be implemented at other battery factories worldwide. Panasonic Energy currently manufactures 2170 and 1860 cylindrical EV batteries at its Suminoe and Kaizuka plants in Japan. The addition of the 4680 cells to its production lineup underscores the company's commitment to advancing battery technology and supporting the growing demand for electric vehicles.

Honda's Bold Move: Establishing an EV Hub in Ohio Source : https://www.evlife.my/blog/honda%27s-bold-move:-establishing-an-ev-hub-in-ohio Marysville, Ohio – Honda is making significant strides towards an electrified future with the establishment of a new Electric Vehicle (EV) Hub in Ohio. This ambitious project is part of Honda's broader strategy to achieve 100% zero-emission vehicle sales by 2040. Investment and Infrastructure Honda has committed to investing at least $700 million to transform its Marysville Auto Plant (MAP), East Liberty Auto Plant (ELP), and Anna Engine Plant (AEP) into a state-of-the-art EV production hub. This investment will not only retool these facilities for EV production but also create 300 new jobs and upskill 300 existing associates for the assembly of the Intelligent Power Unit (IPU), which houses the EV battery. Strategic Role and Flexibility The EV Hub will play a crucial role in developing Honda's expertise in EV technology, which will be shared across its North American production network¹. The Marysville Auto Plant, Honda's first auto production facility in America, will have the flexibility to produce both internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and EVs on the same line¹. This adaptability allows Honda to respond swiftly to market demands while showcasing the ingenuity of its associates. Commitment to Carbon Neutrality Honda's EV Hub is a testament to its commitment to carbon neutrality and sustainable innovation. The company aims to start EV production in late 2025, with retooling efforts already well underway. The establishment of this hub is not just an investment in infrastructure but also in the people who will lead Honda into an electrified future. Leadership and Vision Bob Nelson, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., emphasized the strategic importance of the EV Hub: "Our EV Hub in Ohio is playing an essential and strategic role for the evolution of EV production at Honda, in North America and globally. We are investing in the Honda associates who will be taking on new responsibilities to lead us into the electrified future". As Honda continues to embrace teamwork, respect, and open communication, the values that have driven its success over the past 45 years will undoubtedly power it into a sustainable and electrified future.