TOKYO: Panasonic Energy will supply cylindrical batteries to Amazon’s self-driving unit Zoox starting early 2026 under a multi-year agreement, the Japanese company announced Tuesday. The deal will provide 2170 battery cells to support Zoox’s growing robotaxi service.
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The partnership comes as Zoox recently launched free rides for early users in parts of San Francisco, aiming to attract customers in the increasingly competitive autonomous ride-hailing market. Panasonic said the new batteries will bolster the performance and reliability of Zoox’s fleet as the company expands operations.
Panasonic Energy emphasized that the agreement reflects the growing demand for advanced electric vehicle (EV) batteries, especially in mobility services leveraging autonomous technology. The 2170 cells, widely used in EVs, provide high energy density and durability for repeated charging cycles, which is critical for ride-hailing operations.
$AMZN | Panasonic Energy Will Deliver 2170 Cylindrical Batteries to Zoox Starting in Early 2026 to Support Its Growing Robotaxi Service and Operations, Panasonic Says https://t.co/aJzim5nKuL
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The deal follows a challenging period for Panasonic Holdings. Last month, the company lowered its annual profit forecast, citing weaker earnings at the energy unit and lower projected automotive battery sales amid slower U.S. EV market growth. Analysts note that partnerships like Zoox could help stabilize battery revenue by diversifying Panasonic’s customer base beyond traditional automakers.
Industry observers say the collaboration underscores the rising intersection of autonomous vehicles and advanced battery technology, with companies seeking reliable, high-capacity batteries to support round-the-clock operations. For Zoox, securing a consistent supply of Panasonic cells is a key step toward scaling its robotaxi fleet efficiently.
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The agreement highlights Panasonic’s continued push to strengthen its position in the EV battery sector while enabling next-generation mobility solutions that could redefine urban transportation.