The automotive industry is still in its infancy in the electric adventure. That’s why innovation can only progress at much higher levels than it is now. Battery supplier Panasonic is reportedly working on a new technology that would increase the energy density of its battery packs by a fifth by 2030.
At least that’s what Schoichiro Watanabe, the firm’s chief technology officer, said in an interview with Reuters. Still, we’re talking about a possible 20% increase in autonomy here, a not insignificant distance. Panasonic, which is a Tesla supplier, could give the American brand’s vehicles an even more impressive range. For example, the current Model Y could drive for nearly 100 additional kilometers before having to stop to recharge.
With this increased density, automakers would also have the freedom to reduce the weight of the battery packs mounted on their respective vehicles.
Tesla, which leads the auto industry in electric vehicle sales at the moment, is under scrutiny by experts who believe that long-established car brands could overtake the company founded by Elon Musk.
To meet the ever-increasing demand for electric vehicles, players like Panasonic will have to find ways to boost performance while cutting costs.
The battery supplier has reportedly found a new blend of additives that allows cells to operate at higher voltage without affecting battery performance or accelerating battery degradation.
The technology race is well and truly on in the world of battery suppliers and technology in general. The automotive industry needs the input of its partners more than ever to accelerate the development of the electric car of tomorrow.
