QuantumScape Corporation, a pioneer in next-generation solid-state lithium-metal batteries, and Volkswagen Group’s battery division PowerCo SE have staged a landmark live demonstration of solid-state technology powering a real vehicle. The showcase took place at the IAA Mobility 2025 event in Munich and featured a modified Ducati V21L electric motorcycle equipped with QuantumScape’s QSE-5 battery cells.
The Ducati V21L prototype includes 980 QSE-5 cells manufactured using QuantumScape’s proprietary “Cobra” production process. These cells use a lithium-metal anode and ceramic separator, marking a departure from traditional lithium-ion battery design.
Key performance metrics unveiled include an energy density of approximately 844 Wh/L, and an ultra-fast charge capability from 10 % to 80 % in just over 12 minutes. Additionally, the cells support a 10C continuous discharge rate – all underscoring the high-performance ambitions of this technology.
The strategic collaboration sees QuantumScape delivering the cell technology, PowerCo bringing manufacturing scale and Volkswagen Group ecosystem involvement, and Ducati serving as a performance-centric launch partner. According to executives, the demonstration marks a transition from laboratory test-beds to real-world vehicle application.
While the demo impresses, both companies emphasise that this is a technology preview rather than a commercially available product. The path to series production still involves scaling manufacturing, cost reduction and validation of long-term durability.
For the EV industry, this event signals a significant milestone. It suggests that solid-state batteries—long heralded as the “holy grail” for energy density, fast-charging and safety—may be nearing viable application in high-performance mobility. The next steps will focus on moving from prototypes to mass-market vehicles and broader infrastructure readiness.
