Solid-state batteries are an invention that when actualized will eliminate range anxiety, shorten charging duration, and make EVs as practical as gasoline-powered cars that have existed since the 1880s when the first gasoline car was made. However, solid-state batteries have remained in the research phase for nearly two decades now.
Volkswagen has recently made a solid-state battery breakthrough that could eliminate one big EV problem that could upset Tesla. Although Volkswagen is not making these batteries itself, they have partnered with QuantumScape and together, they have made significant progress towards bringing this technology to market. Despite challenges, the progress has also been faster than most people can expect.
Why Solid-State Batteries are Special?
Solid-state batteries use a solid material that replaces the liquid electrolyte used in untraditional lithium-ion batteries. Solid-state batteries are also smaller, charge faster, and can operate in a wide range of temperatures even the extreme ones without losing efficiency.
Since QuantumScape agreed with PowerCo, a battery company owned in July 2024, the two companies have tested various prototypes of SSBs and the current results have exceeded expectations. According to PowerCo, the SSB prototype cell retained 95% of its range capacity after 1,000 charging cycles which is equivalent to roughly 300,000 miles. The current standard for EVs targets 20% capacity loss after 700 charging cycles. More improvement in the energy density of these batteries could improve longer driving ranges and the two companies are aiming for over 600 miles per charge which is double the current industry average.
The Challenge of Mass Production
Despite these positive results, producing solid-state batteries on a large scale is a bit difficult because the traditional lithium-ion battery factories cannot be easily converted to manufacture them. This means the production of these SSBs, is a new process requiring new infrastructure. Although Volkswagen is on the verge of a breakthrough, the transition will not happen overnight. This explains why companies like Toyota and Factorial are still working on semi-solid-state batteries before fully adopting full solid-state production.
Volkswagen is Leading the Charge
Volkswagen’s collaboration and heavy investment in QuantumScape production of solid-state batteries means that the competition is heating up and industry leaders such as Tesla are feeling the heat already. The breakthrough could also see Volkswagen and its partners reduce the EV battery weight by up to 1,000 pounds. Lighter batteries would lead to increased efficiency and lower costs making their cars more attractive to consumers.
Additionally, QuantumScape’s solid-state batteries promise a further reduction in production costs challenging Tesla’s position as its leading EV market. QuantumScape also boasts world-class innovation that extends beyond the automotive industry with implications for energy storage, integration of renewable energy, and carbon-neutral future. This innovation and technology put QuantumScape in pole position to provide fierce competition to Tesla.
What Could This Breakthrough Mean for Other EV Automakers?
Volkswagen’s solid-state battery breakthrough enabling it to bring this technology to the market first could put it at the helm in the production of Solid-state batteries for EV car manufacturers.