Volkswagen’s made a breakthrough in solid-state batteries

Volkswagen is teaming up with battery developer QuantumScape to start mass-producing all-solid-state batteries (ASSBs) as it looks to ramp up the evolution of its EVs.

The result? Likely increased range, reduced charge times, stronger 0-62 sprints and possibly higher top speeds. There’s no word yet on just which VW models could be outfitted with ASSBs first, but it has been mentioned the duo will target a ‘scaled-up’ model as the basis. Interesting.

The agreement is that VW will use Quantum’s platform to create around 40 gigawatt-hours (GWh) worth of batteries per year, with up to 80 possible in the future. That’s enough for one million cars, by the way. Wowza.

As for the batteries themselves, they’re made of solid-state ceramic separators, which accept pure lithium-metal anodes. Roughly translated from gibberish to non-gibberish, that means they’re capable of providing large amounts of energy and power density for increased periods. It’s a bit like Thor lighting up Tony Stark’s reactor, after which he’s zapped up to 370 per cent power.

Reckon these next-generation batteries will make EVs a more attractive proposition for you?