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In 2023, automotive lithium-ion batteries accounted for ** percent of the battery production value in Japan. Lithium-ion batteries for other applications than automotive, typically for consumer electronics, such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops, accounted for another percent. Their respective production value reached approximately *** billion and *** billion Japanese yen. Other battery types of significant production value were alkaline storage batteries and lead-acid batteries.

The Japanese battery industry

Japan is a major battery-producing country. Unsurprisingly, it hosts an acknowledged international expo for rechargeable batteries, Battery Japan. This exhibition is held twice a year at locations in Osaka or Tokyo, featuring high-profile exhibitors. Panasonic, for example, ranked among the leading lithium-ion battery producers globally. Other Japanese battery manufacturers include companies like Kyocera, Sharp, and Sumitomo.

Current developments in the industry

The mobility and energy sectors have become the new battleground battery producers attempt to conquer. Therefore, battery manufacturers, such as Panasonic or GS Yuasa, have forged joint ventures with electric vehicle (EV) makers to secure their position in a highly competitive market. In the energy sector, producers try to offer other solutions: large-scale stationary battery systems may store and supply energy to mitigate the discrepancy between peaks of electricity production and consumption as solar or wind power is often fluctuating. The concepts of energy security and mobility are even combined in some cars that can turn their batteries into emergency power supplies—a particular appeal on a volcanic island like Japan.