QuantumScape develops and manufactures solid-state lithium-metal batteries, focusing on solutions for electric vehicles (EVs). Founded in 2010 by Jagdeep Singh, Tim Holme, and Professor Fritz Prinz of Stanford University, the company specializes in creating energy storage systems that deliver superior performance compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. The company’s innovative approach centers on its anode-less battery design, which optimizes energy storage efficiency while reducing material costs and simplifying manufacturing processes. Their technology aims to meet growing demands for enhanced EV performance through faster charging times, increased safety, and improved energy density.
Battery Technology
QuantumScape’s solid-state battery technology represents a significant advancement in energy storage solutions. The company’s proprietary design features a solid ceramic electrolyte separator that prevents dendrite formation and maintains stability with lithium metal. This ceramic separator works in conjunction with a lithium-metal anode, which forms during the initial charging process, eliminating the need for traditional graphite or silicon materials.
The batteries achieve energy density exceeding 800 watt-hours per liter, significantly surpassing conventional lithium-ion technology. This increased density translates to extended driving ranges for electric vehicles. The design enables rapid charging capabilities, allowing batteries to charge from 10% to 80% capacity in under 15 minutes while maintaining thermal stability and safety.
Their QSE-5 cell prototype demonstrates these advantages, incorporating multiple layers of ceramic separators and maintaining performance through more than 1,000 charging cycles while retaining over 95% capacity. This achievement validates the scalability and commercial potential of their technology for automotive applications.
Recent Projects
In late 2024, QuantumScape introduced the Cobra separator equipment, marking significant progress toward higher-volume production planned for 2025. The company began manufacturing B-sample QSE-5 cells for automotive testing, demonstrating practical applications of their technology. Their partnership with PowerCo, Volkswagen’s battery manufacturing subsidiary, advanced toward industrialization goals. Additionally, QuantumScape expanded its research capabilities by establishing a new R&D center in Kyoto, Japan, strengthening their presence in the Asia-Pacific region.
Investors
QuantumScape’s financial backing includes significant investments from industry leaders and institutional investors. Volkswagen AG maintains approximately 14.91% ownership, representing one of the largest strategic investments. Other major shareholders include Vanguard Fiduciary Trust Co. (6.877%), BlackRock Advisors LLC (3.247%), and Capricorn Investment Group LLC (3.232%). Notable individual investors include Bill Gates, while the Qatar Investment Authority contributed substantial funding during the company’s merger with Kensington Capital Acquisition Corp.
Business Details
Location: San Jose, California, USA
Website: https://quantumscape.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/1878695
