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Panasonic Energy Opens Kansas EV Battery Factory, Targets 32 GWh Annual Capacity

Panasonic Energy has inaugurated its new cylindrical lithium-ion battery facility in De Soto, Kansas, USA, marking a major step in expanding its electric vehicle (EV) battery production in North America. The plant has commenced mass production of 2170 battery cells and aims to reach an annual output of 32 GWh. This is part of Panasonic’s broader goal to raise its U.S.-based production capacity to approximately 73 GWh.

The factory spans around 300 acres and is projected to achieve 20% higher productivity than Panasonic's existing Nevada plant, which has a capacity of 41 GWh and has delivered over 11 billion cells since 2017. The Kansas facility will also introduce improved battery cells with enhanced capacity using advanced materials.

Panasonic Energy is partnering with the University of Kansas and other academic institutions to drive innovation and talent development, reinforcing long-term ties between industry and academia. As of March 2025, the company has produced approximately 19 billion cells, powering around 3.7 million EVs.

While expanding EV battery production, Panasonic North America exited the solar and battery storage segment in April. In 2024, Panasonic also invested in Battery Smart’s $65 million Series B round to further its mobility ecosystem footprint.