Tesla Shows Off The Model S Glider And 8,000 Odd Panasonic 18650 Cells That Power The Car

Tesla's Kurt Kelty, the automaker's director of battery technology, seems a bit upset with how Panasonic operates in Japan.

According to Kelty, automakers need to take risks, especially when it comes to new, advancing technologies such as batteries:

"We need to take risks, otherwise there will be no prosperity in business."

Kelty made that statement during an event in Osaka, Japan. However, it was this follow-up statement that perhaps shows his disapproval over the way Panasonic operates:

"We take risks, but it seems not the case in Japan."

Kelty appears to lay some blame for delays on these same Japanese suppliers too, saying that a weakness among many of Tesla's suppliers is moving too slowly:

"Decision-making often takes time. For example, when the product is almost ready, they may want to do the test again."

Finally, Kelty commented on a supply issue, without identifying the suppliers. According to Kelty, Tesla asked a Japanese supplier to increase its production. The supplier declined, saying that Tesla should slow its expansion plans:

"We're a growing company, and therefore we need to put pressure on the suppliers, so the suppliers need to grow as well."

Stated Kelty.

Overall, it would seem Kelty isn't pleased with much of what goes on in Japan that relates to Tesla.

Source: Automotive News