Tesla partners with Panasonic to produce solar cells

Electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla has finalised an agreement with electronics giant Panasonic to begin the manufacturing of photovoltaic (PV) cells and modules in Buffalo, NY.

The high efficiency PV cells will be designed to work seamlessly with Tesla’s energy storage products, the Powerwall and Powerpack, and, when production of the solar roof begins, Tesla will also incorporate Panasonic's cells into the many kinds of solar glass tile roofs it will be manufacturing.

As part of the agreement, Panasonic will cover required capital costs in Buffalo and Tesla is making a long-term purchase commitment from Panasonic.

The production in Buffalo comes as part of Tesla’s plan to expand its American manufacturing base and create thousands of new jobs in the coming years.