PowerCo, established in 2022 as a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group, is a battery cell manufacturer dedicated to transforming the electric mobility sector. The company focuses on developing and producing sustainable battery solutions for various applications, from passenger vehicles to commercial transport. With planned production capacity of 200 gigawatt-hours annually, PowerCo aims to become a leading force in battery manufacturing while maintaining strict environmental standards. The company’s approach combines innovative cell design with sustainable production methods, setting new benchmarks for efficiency and environmental responsibility in battery manufacturing.
Battery Technology
PowerCo’s technological foundation centers on their Unified Cell concept, an adaptable battery format supporting multiple chemistry configurations for different vehicle applications. This versatile design enables cost-effective mass production while meeting diverse performance requirements across various vehicle segments.
The company implements advanced manufacturing processes, including a proprietary dry coating technique that eliminates the need for chemical solvents and industrial drying furnaces. This method reduces energy consumption by approximately 30% compared to traditional coating processes and enhances fast-charging capabilities.
Through collaboration with QuantumScape, PowerCo is advancing solid-state battery development, integrating ceramic separator technology with lithium-metal anodes. This combination promises increased energy density, faster charging times, and improved safety compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries. The partnership aims to achieve production capacity of up to 80 GWh annually for solid-state batteries.
Recent Projects
In early 2024, PowerCo secured a significant agreement with Novonix for the supply of 32,000 tonnes of synthetic graphite material, scheduled to begin in 2027. The material will be produced at Novonix’s Riverside facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Construction preparation is underway for PowerCo’s first overseas gigafactory in St. Thomas, Ontario, with planned production capacity of 90 GWh annually. Additionally, PowerCo and Volkswagen recently invested in Patriot Battery Metals to secure long-term lithium supplies, marking their first direct investment in the lithium supply chain.
Investors
PowerCo operates as a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group, which serves as its primary investor. While not having external investors, PowerCo has established strategic partnerships with several industry leaders. Notable collaborations include joint ventures with Umicore for European battery materials production, targeting materials supply for 2.2 million electric vehicles annually by 2030, and the aforementioned partnership with QuantumScape for solid-state battery development.
Business Details
Location: Salzgitter, Germany
Website: https://powerco.de
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/86667539
