De Soto KS Contractors: Panasonic's $4B Gigafactory Is the Largest Investment in Kansas History, Watch Your Rental Costs

Panasonic Energy is building a $4 billion EV battery gigafactory in De Soto, Kansas, the largest single economic development investment in the state's history. Walbridge is the GC, and the construction is creating enormous demand for heavy equipment across the Kansas City metro. TrueRent shows KC-area contractors where United Rentals, Sunbelt, Foley Equipment, and EquipmentShare are charging above market.

Kansas City's construction market is strong, and adding a $4B gigafactory on top of existing demand drives equipment prices up for everyone. Panasonic's tight timeline means premium rates for cranes and aerial lifts. Delivery charges to De Soto from KC-area yards, environmental fees, and fuel surcharges are all areas where rental companies add margin. TrueRent catches these hidden costs.

Panasonic EV Battery Gigafactory ($4B investment)

A massive EV battery gigafactory on a 300+ acre site in De Soto, Kansas, just southwest of Kansas City. Panasonic Energy's facility will produce lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles, including cells for Tesla. The project represents the largest single economic development investment in Kansas history.

Vendors we benchmark

  • United Rentals
  • Sunbelt Rentals
  • Herc Rentals
  • Foley Equipment (CAT)
  • EquipmentShare