Panasonic Energy Launches Global Battery R&D Hub in Japan
Osaka, Japan – September 16, 2026 – Panasonic Energy Co., Ltd. has announced the opening of Energy Innovation Square, a new lithium-ion battery research and development facility in Kadoma, Osaka. This facility will function as a global hub for battery development, encompassing material development, cell design, and prototyping.
In collaboration with the Suminoe Production Development Facility, Energy Innovation Square aims to expedite the development and mass production of next-generation batteries specifically for automotive and data center applications. The innovations and manufacturing processes developed here will be integrated across Panasonic Energy’s international manufacturing network, including facilities in Japan, Nevada, and Kansas, enhancing production capabilities worldwide.
Approximately 500 employees will work at Energy Innovation Square, while the combined workforce of this center and Suminoe will number around 800, making it one of Japan’s largest dedicated battery development operations. Panasonic Energy is targeting a doubling of development efficiency by FY2031 compared to FY2024 to better adapt to the growing demands of various sectors, including the increasing electrification of vehicles and the rise of AI-driven data centers.
The Japanese government has emphasized the significance of batteries for energy and economic security. As demand for advanced battery solutions escalates, emerging technologies like drones and robotaxis will further expand battery applications.
By consolidating development processes that were previously spread across different locations, Panasonic Energy anticipates gains in operational efficiency and a reduction of lead times. The facility will also leverage an advanced digital transformation platform for data analysis and simulation.
Kazuo Tadanobu, CEO of Panasonic Energy, stated that Energy Innovation Square will enhance collaboration from product development to mass production, strengthening the company’s global competitiveness. He emphasized the commitment to innovative battery technologies and contributing to a sustainable society.
For more information on developments in the battery market, visit Batteries News.
