Hiroshima / Leverkusen, 4 September 2025 – Mazda Motor Corporation has taken a decisive step toward the future of mobility, signing a landmark agreement with Iwakuni City and the Yamaguchi Prefecture to establish the Mazda Motor Corporation Iwakuni Plant, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to producing cylindrical lithium-ion battery packs. Construction is set to commence in November 2025, with operations scheduled to begin in 2027. This will be Mazda’s first new domestic plant since the Hofu No.2 Plant opened its doors in 1992.
Spanning approximately 190,000 m² in Iwakuni City, the new facility will be capable of producing up to 10 GWh annually, a significant capacity that will underpin Mazda’s expanding portfolio of electrified vehicles. By leveraging cylindrical lithium-ion cells supplied by Panasonic Energy Co., Ltd., the Iwakuni Plant will deliver high-quality battery modules designed to meet the demanding standards of modern automotive applications.
Mazda’s electrification strategy embraces a multi-solution approach, allowing the company to respond flexibly to the diverse needs of global customers. The Iwakuni Plant will form a critical foundation for this strategy, enabling Mazda to offer a range of electrified products that balance performance, efficiency, and environmental responsibility. The facility also reflects Mazda’s commitment to corporate citizenship, providing a safe and comfortable workplace while contributing to local employment and the broader economic development of the Yamaguchi Prefecture.
The establishment of the Iwakuni Plant marks a key milestone in Mazda’s transformation. With a focus on quality, innovation, and sustainability, the facility will power the next generation of Mazda vehicles and help the company meet increasingly stringent global emissions standards. The initiative underscores Mazda’s vision of delivering attractive, responsible mobility solutions while strengthening its domestic manufacturing capabilities.
Mazda Iwakuni Plant Overview
- Name: Mazda Motor Corporation Iwakuni Plant
- Product: Cylindrical lithium-ion battery packs for automotive use
- Annual Production Capacity: Up to 10 GWh
- Location: 3915 Minamishirazaki, Tsuzu, Iwakuni City, Yamaguchi Prefecture
- Land Area: Approximately 190,000 m²
- Construction Start: November 2025
- Operations Begin: Fiscal Year 2027
As Mazda enters this new era of electrification, the Iwakuni Plant stands as a symbol of the company’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and delivering compelling products that resonate with customers worldwide. With its advanced battery technology, Mazda is poised to drive forward a future where electrified mobility is both practical and desirable, solidifying its role as a leader in automotive evolution.
