In ramping up regional output to meet booming demand for EVs, Panasonic also aims to increase localized sourcing of battery materials, targeting a 50 percent local procure rate.

The automaker hasn’t made a final decision, but is expected to partner with Panasonic at the operation.

J.B. Straubel's broader goal is to move a huge chunk of the battery-component industry from Asia to the U.S., Bloomberg reported.