Panasonic Begins Mass Production at Kansas Battery Plant

Panasonic has opened its $4 billion electric vehicle battery plant in De Soto, Kansas, marking the largest private investment in Kansas history and Panasonic's biggest manufacturing facility. The 4.7 million-square-foot plant, built on 300 acres, has started mass production of advanced lithium-ion batteries at a rate of up to 70 cells per second, targeting an annual output between 32 and 73 gigawatt-hours. The factory expects to create up to 4,000 direct jobs by late 2026 or 2027, with current staffing at about 1,100 and anticipated annual economic impact of $2.5 billion. The opening included a Kagami-wari ceremony to highlight Japan-Kansas partnership. Despite challenges in the EV market, Panasonic leaders express confidence in meeting job and production goals. The facility is also expected to boost regional employment and foster university collaborations for workforce development.