QuantumScape launches solid-state battery pilot production for EVs
QuantumScape begins pilot production of solid-state batteries
QuantumScape launches solid-state battery pilot production for EVs
QuantumScape starts pilot production of solid-state batteries in San Jose, aiming for market launch by decade's end with Volkswagen partnership and licensing model.
2026-02-09T11:34:21+03:00
2026-02-09T11:34:21+03:00
2026-02-09T11:34:21+03:00
QuantumScape, founded 15 years ago, has announced the launch of pilot production for solid-state batteries in San Jose. The first QSE-5 cells are anode-free lithium-metal units about the size of a deck of cards, manufactured on the automated Eagle line. CEO Siva Sivaram called the launch a "Kitty Hawk moment."The technology employs a ceramic separator and laminated cathodes to create thin "unit cells," which are then assembled into 5-ampere elements. According to CTO Tim Holme, the immediate goal is to demonstrate scalability by optimizing yield, stability, and quality. The company has opted for a licensing model, leaving mass production to automotive manufacturers.Volkswagen remains a key partner, having already tested solid-state cells on a Ducati motorcycle in 2025. QuantumScape aims to bring its products to market by the end of the decade, starting with limited series and high-performance models before expanding to mass-market segments.Despite the maturity of lithium-ion technology, Holme anticipates an "S-curve" of efficiency gains for solid-state solutions, including new materials. While not focusing on price, the company expects to remain competitive by using familiar cathode chemistries.The first commercial product could debut in niche sports cars, similar to Tesla's evolution from the Roadster to the Model 3. In the long term, solid-state and lithium-ion solutions will coexist, with the former excelling in energy density and the latter suited for stationary systems.
QuantumScape, solid-state batteries, pilot production, EV batteries, lithium-metal, Volkswagen, automotive technology, energy density, battery innovation
2026
Michael Powers
news
QuantumScape begins pilot production of solid-state batteries
QuantumScape starts pilot production of solid-state batteries in San Jose, aiming for market launch by decade's end with Volkswagen partnership and licensing model.
Michael Powers, Editor
QuantumScape, founded 15 years ago, has announced the launch of pilot production for solid-state batteries in San Jose. The first QSE-5 cells are anode-free lithium-metal units about the size of a deck of cards, manufactured on the automated Eagle line. CEO Siva Sivaram called the launch a "Kitty Hawk moment."
The technology employs a ceramic separator and laminated cathodes to create thin "unit cells," which are then assembled into 5-ampere elements. According to CTO Tim Holme, the immediate goal is to demonstrate scalability by optimizing yield, stability, and quality. The company has opted for a licensing model, leaving mass production to automotive manufacturers.
Volkswagen remains a key partner, having already tested solid-state cells on a Ducati motorcycle in 2025. QuantumScape aims to bring its products to market by the end of the decade, starting with limited series and high-performance models before expanding to mass-market segments.
Despite the maturity of lithium-ion technology, Holme anticipates an "S-curve" of efficiency gains for solid-state solutions, including new materials. While not focusing on price, the company expects to remain competitive by using familiar cathode chemistries.
The first commercial product could debut in niche sports cars, similar to Tesla's evolution from the Roadster to the Model 3. In the long term, solid-state and lithium-ion solutions will coexist, with the former excelling in energy density and the latter suited for stationary systems.
