Harbinger electric trucks to rely on Panasonic Energy battery cells. Agreement announced
Initially, Panasonic Energy will supply Harbinger with battery cells manufactured in Japan, which will be delivered to Harbinger’s headquarters in Garden Grove, California. In the near future, the two companies look to expand production to include Panasonic Energy’s manufacturing facility in De Soto, Kansas. This opportunity would enable the addition of U.S.-produced battery cells to Harbinger’s existing U.S.-based production of battery packs.
American truck manufacturer Harbinger, about to participate in ACT Expo 2025, announced valuable agreement with Panasonic Energy. The latter will supply battery cells for Harbinger’s electric trucks from now on. In other words, Panasonic Energy’s lithium-ion batteries are incorporated into Harbinger’s proprietary battery system to power its American-made medium-duty electric vehicles.
These high-performing battery cells boast an industry-leading energy density of above 800Wh/L (watt-hours per liter), ensuring superior energy solutions that enhance truck performance and efficiency. Initially, Panasonic Energy will supply Harbinger with battery cells manufactured in Japan, which will be delivered to Harbinger’s headquarters in Garden Grove, California. In the near future, the two companies look to expand production to include Panasonic Energy’s manufacturing facility in De Soto, Kansas.
Panasonic Energy and Harbinger for electric truck batteries
This opportunity would enable the addition of U.S.-produced battery cells to Harbinger’s existing U.S.-based production of battery packs, making the complete battery pack assembly the first in the commercial vehicle sector to be fully U.S.-sourced.
Harbinger designs and manufactures its chassis at its Garden Grove, California facility. Their proprietary electric stripped chassis includes all major systems, like the in-house electric drivetrain and high-voltage battery system, positioning them as a unique player in the industry. This vertically integrated approach keeps costs low and enhances performance, safety, and durability.
Indeed, Harbinger achieved start of production in early 2025, and is working to fulfill approximately 5,000 pre-orders from major customers. “Harbinger’s commitment to safety and engineering opened the door for our relationship with Panasonic Energy, the supplier of the highest quality battery cells in the world”, said John Harris, Co-founder and CEO, Harbinger. “The battery cells we are using are the latest version Panasonic Energy supplies to the top consumer EV OEMs. Panasonic Energy’s long track record of both high-quality battery cell production and the industry’s lowest defect rates sets them apart and ensures Harbinger’s chassis will be outfitted with the best batteries available today”.
“This partnership marks a transformative milestone for both Panasonic Energy and Harbinger as we jointly advance battery innovation. Harbinger’s chassis design and battery packs stand out as among the safest and most durable in the EV industry, aligning with our high standards for performance and reliability. Together, we are enhancing Harbinger’s product offerings while reinforcing our shared commitment to sustainability and electrification within the transportation industry”, added Kazuo Tadanobu, CEO of Panasonic Energy.
