QuantumScape and PowerCo SE recently showcased the first-ever solid-state battery-powered vehicle, a modified Ducati V21L race motorcycle, at the IAA Mobility event in Munich.
This live demonstration marks the transition of solid-state batteries from laboratory to real-world vehicle use, highlighting a major leap in electric vehicle technology.
The innovative battery system, utilizing QSE-5 cells developed with Audi specialists, is the first anode-free solid-state battery technology demonstrated in a live vehicle. This milestone underscores QuantumScape’s pioneering role in the evolution of battery technology.
How QuantumScape demonstrated solid-state battery technology
The demonstration featured the Ducati V21L race motorcycle powered by QuantumScape’s QSE-5 battery cells. These cells provided over 844 Wh/L energy density and enabled charging from 10% to 80% in just over 12 minutes, showcasing unprecedented performance for solid-state batteries.
QuantumScape used its proprietary Cobra separator manufacturing process to produce these cells, greatly improving production scale and quality compared to earlier methods.
Did you know?
QuantumScape’s Cobra separator manufacturing process improved battery production efficiency by 25 times over previous methods.
What technical advantages the QSE-5 cells offer
QuantumScape’s QSE-5 solid-state batteries address key industry challenges, including higher energy density, faster charging times, enhanced safety, longer lifespan, and competitive cost-effectiveness.
The cells support 10C continuous discharge capability, making them well-suited for high-performance electric vehicles requiring rapid power output and quick recharge.
How this breakthrough impacts electric vehicle future
This technology could redefine electric vehicle capabilities by enabling longer ranges, shorter charging times, and safer battery packs, facilitating wider EV adoption.
Commercial deployment of such batteries could accelerate as automakers seek advanced energy storage solutions to meet growing demand and regulatory pressures.
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What partnerships advanced QuantumScape’s technology
QuantumScape’s collaboration with PowerCo and Audi played a critical role in refining and producing the QSE-5 cells. Their partnership expanded in July 2025 with milestone payments and increased production capacity targeting up to 5 gigawatt-hours annually.
Volkswagen Group Components CEO Thomas Schmall emphasized the strategic importance of this breakthrough for premium vehicle markets.
What the market response and timeline look like
Following the live demonstration, QuantumScape’s stock surged 19%. The company plans sample shipments in 2026 with potential commercial production between 2027 and 2028.
This timeline positions QuantumScape at the forefront of next-generation EV battery technology as solid-state batteries transition to market-ready solutions.
QuantumScape’s solid-state battery breakthrough signals a transformative moment for the electric vehicle industry. The blend of performance and production innovations is set to push EV technology forward and expand the possibilities for future transportation.
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