Mazda Motor Corporation, a leading name in the automotive industry, has officially unveiled its ambitious plans to construct a state-of-the-art module pack plant dedicated to the production of cylindrical lithium-ion batteries for automotive applications.
This exciting development will take place in Iwakuni City, located in the scenic Yamaguchi Prefecture of Japan. The facility is designed to manufacture both modules and packs of automotive cylindrical lithium-ion cells, which will be sourced from the renowned Panasonic Energy Co., Ltd.
Upon completion, these advanced battery packs will be a crucial component in Mazda’s inaugural battery electric vehicle (EV), which is built upon a highly specialized EV platform. As part of this initiative, the vehicle assembly will occur at Mazda’s existing vehicle manufacturing plant in Japan, emphasizing the synergy between their advanced battery production and vehicle assembly processes. With an impressive annual production capacity projected at 10 gigawatt-hours (GWh), this plant is poised to play a pivotal role in the electric future of Mazda’s vehicle lineup.
Aligned with its 2030 Management Policy, Mazda is proactively advancing its electrification technologies by leveraging a multi-solution strategy, which encompasses a diverse array of technological options. This approach is designed to effectively address evolving customer preferences and stringent regulatory requirements, all while contributing to the critical global effort of combating climate change. In the realm of battery technology, a fundamental aspect of electrified vehicles, Mazda solidified its partnership with Panasonic Energy in May 2023, securing a supply of cylindrical lithium-ion batteries tailored for automotive use. Building upon this collaboration, in September 2024, Mazda’s expansion plans for battery production and technological advancements received commendable certification from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) as a formal “plan to ensure stable supply of storage batteries.”
This new plant will enable Mazda to supply its customers with innovative battery-electric vehicles that boast an appealing aesthetic and are also designed for practicality, with enhanced convenience and impressive driving range thanks to the battery module packs created at the facility. Additionally, this plant’s establishment is set to positively impact the local community by fostering job creation and stimulating economic growth within the region.
Looking ahead to 2030, Mazda remains committed to evolving its core concept of “Joy of Driving,” which is underpinned by its philosophy of “Radically Human.” The company aspires to enhance its customers’ lives by delivering “Joy of Living,” which creates engaging and thrilling mobility experiences that enrich their everyday journeys.
Source: MAZDA
