Volkswagen Plans a Million Solid-State BEVs Annually

Volkswagen hopes to build enough cheaper solid-state batteries to power up to 1 million of its battery-electric vehicles manufactured every year.

The automaker’s battery company, PowerCo, is committed to an agreement with QuantumScape to industrialize its next-generation solid-state lithium-metal battery technology.

Under this agreement, PowerCo will hold the license to mass-produce battery cells based on QuantumScape’s technology platform.

PowerCo claims to be able to manufacture up to 40 gigawatt-hours (GWh) per year using QuantumScape’s technology with the option to expand up to 80 GWh annually, enough to outfit about 1 million vehicles per year.

The companies believe this agreement represents the fastest way to achieve gigawatt-hour-scale production of solid-state technology to meet the expected global demand for cheaper BEVs. A large, dedicated scale-up team, composed of experts from both companies, will execute the industrialization activities.

QuantumScape’s technology platform is based on the company’s proprietary solid-state ceramic separator, which enables the use of a pure lithium-metal anode, claiming improved energy and power density, fast charging and a robust safety profile.

Together, the companies will target a product that will be scaled-up for integration in a Volkswagen Group vehicle series. Thomas Schmall, Volkswagen Group board member for technology, says: “Electric vehicles are the future of mobility, and this agreement with QuantumScape will ensure the Volkswagen Group’s global fleet has access to this groundbreaking battery technology for years to come. We are committed to driving the industry forward to ensure that our electric vehicles set the benchmark for excellence and sustainability.”