Catalyzes the sodium-dependent uptake of extracellular pantothenate. (R)-pantothenate(in) + Na(+)(in) = (R)-pantothenate(out) + Na(+)(out) Pantothenate uptake is not reduced in osmotically shocked cells or by ATP depletion with arsenate, but is reduced greater than 90% by the dissipation of the membrane electrochemical gradient with 2,4-dinitrophenol. Belongs to the sodium:solute symporter (SSF) (TC 2.A.21) family. Extended N-terminus. Extended N-terminus.