Solid-state electric vehicle batteries showcased by QuantumScape and PowerCo in a Ducati electric motorcycle demonstration.
In a groundbreaking development, QuantumScape (QS) and PowerCo, the battery division of the Volkswagen Group, have demonstrated solid-state lithium-metal batteries in a Ducati electric motorcycle at the IAA Mobility show in Munich. This marks the first time QuantumScape has showcased its solid-state cells in a real-world vehicle in the United States.
The expanded collaboration and licensing arrangement between QuantumScape and PowerCo was announced on an unspecified date. This collaboration is an essential step in scaling manufacturing for QuantumScape and PowerCo. The agreement includes up to $131 million in new milestone-based payments over the next two years, which are additional to any previously agreed upon payments.
The first solid-state lithium-metal batteries from QuantumScape were presented in the Ducati V21L electric motorcycle showcased at the IAA 2025. The QSE-5 anode-free solid-state battery cells, produced using QuantumScape's new Cobra production process, have an energy density of 844 Wh/L and 10C continuous discharge. These cells were designed for high-performance, premium vehicles, and their demonstration marks just the beginning.
Frank Blome, CEO of PowerCo, stated that they are combining QuantumScape's world-class battery scientists with PowerCo's manufacturing expertise to bring solid-state battery technology to the world as soon as possible. Dr. Siva Sivaram, CEO and President of QS, stated that they have crossed the threshold from possibility to reality with this demonstration.
The new Cobra production process is used to produce the QSE-5 solid-state battery cells. In June 2025, QuantumScape integrated its proprietary Cobra separator manufacturing process into baseline production. The expansion of the collaboration and licensing arrangement does not affect the partnership with Ducati as the demonstration launch partner.
The expanded agreement enables higher-volume prototype cell deliveries to PowerCo. The partnership between QuantumScape and PowerCo includes Ducati as the demonstration launch partner. However, the agreement does not specify any exclusivity between QuantumScape and PowerCo.
QuantumScape's battery system used in the e-motorcycle was designed by specialists at Audi specifically for QS solid-state battery cells. The company believes that their partnership with PowerCo positions them to scale their transformative technology to gigawatt-hour production in the United States.
This demonstration is a significant step towards the widespread adoption of solid-state battery technology, which promises improved safety, longer range, and faster charging times compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. The collaboration between QuantumScape, PowerCo, and Ducati is expected to accelerate the development and production of this promising technology in the United States.
Read also:
- Musk threatens Apple with litigation amidst increasing conflict surrounding Altman's OpenAI endeavor
- E-mobility continues its progress after a decade since the scandal, staying on course
- The Commission deems the assistance program to be in agreement with the domestic market regulations.
- Innovative Garments and Accessories Producing Energy: Exploring Unconventional Sources for Renewable Power
