Tesla Model S on the road. (Credit: Tesla Motors)
According to Panasonic, shipments of its automotive-grade lithium-ion battery cells for Tesla Motors’ Model S will exceed 100 million units by the end of this month. Retail deliveries of Teslas Model S started in the United States in June 2012. The electric-powered car has been praised for its innovative design and outstanding performance, including long driving range (208-300 mi, depending on the type of battery installed), and sales of the vehicle are projected to top 20,000 units this year.
As awareness for environmental protection rises, Panasonic is strengthening the technology development and business of rechargeable battery cells for eco-friendly cars, which are expected to increase rapidly in the coming years.
For several years, Panasonic has built its partnership with Tesla, starting with the battery supply for Tesla’s luxury sports car, the Roadster. The relationship was extended to the battery supply for the Model S as well as collaboration on the development of next-generation lithium-ion battery cells for EVs.
The battery cell used in the Model S has been developed by Panasonic and Tesla together to achieve maximum energy density and performance. This cylindrical cell is based on Panasonic’s unique technology and optimized specifically for electric vehicle quality and life. These cells are integrated by Tesla into the battery pack that powers the Model S, and have contributed to achieving the groundbreaking driving range of 500km for the Model S when using Tesla’s 85 kWh battery).
Panasonic will continue to accelerate the development and commercialization of high-performance batteries and work on strengthening its EV battery business globally.
