QuantumScape, a global developer of solid-state lithium-metal battery technology, and PowerCo SE, the battery company of the Volkswagen Group, presented the world’s first live demonstration of QuantumScape solid-state lithium-metal batteries in a vehicle.
The demonstration, conducted on a Ducati electric motorcycle at IAA Mobility in Munich, highlights the potential of the QSE-5 battery cell design for future automotive and e-mobility applications.
The event marks the first time anode-free solid-state batteries have moved from laboratory development to real-world vehicle operation.
The QSE-5 technology is designed to address five long-standing performance needs for EV batteries:
- Higher energy density
- Faster charging
- Improved safety
- Longer lifespan
- Cost-effectiveness
During the premiere, a modified Ducati V21L race motorcycle powered by QS solid-state cells rode across the main stage during remarks from Thomas Schmall, CEO of Volkswagen Group Components. The battery system was designed by Audi engineers specifically for QS cells and highlights potential applications for solid-state technology in performance vehicles.
The system demonstrated 844 Wh/L energy density, a 10% to 80% charge in just over 12 minutes, and 10C continuous discharge capability.
“The EV revolution is the biggest transformation the automotive industry has ever seen,” said Frank Blome, CEO of PowerCo. “Solid-state batteries have the potential to redefine what is possible for high-performance and premium vehicles, and today’s demonstration shows the progress toward that goal.”
The demonstration follows several milestones for QuantumScape. In June 2025, the company integrated its proprietary Cobra separator manufacturing process into baseline production.
QuantumScape and PowerCo also expanded their strategic non-exclusive collaboration and licensing arrangement, which includes up to $131 million in milestone-based payments over the next two years to support higher-volume prototype cell deliveries and enable technology transfer for QSE-5.
Filed Under: Batteries, Technology News