A newly developed solid-state battery demonstrated in a Ducati e-motorcycle might redefine what’s possible for high-performance electric powersports vehicles.
QuantumScape Corp., a publicly traded next-generation battery technology company, and PowerCo SE, the battery business of Ducati parent Volkswagen Group, recently premiered the world’s first live demonstration of QS solid-state lithium-metal batteries powering a Ducati V21L electric bike.
The breakthrough technology was showcased in a Ducati motorcycle equipped with QSE-5 battery cells, produced using the QS Cobra production process, during the Volkswagen Group’s press conference at IAA Mobility in Munich, Sept. 8-14.
The demonstration showcased the first anode-free solid-state batteries to move from laboratory discovery to a real-world vehicle. The technology is aimed at meeting the EV industry’s long-standing need for batteries that excel in five critical battery performance metrics: energy density, charging speed, safety, lifespan, and cost-effectiveness.
The Ducati V21L electric prototype contains a first-of-its-kind battery system designed specifically for QS solid-state battery cells and highlights the potential capabilities of the technology on the racetrack. QS has shown energy-density capability with just over 12-minute fast charging technology — from 10% to 80% state of charge — and 10C continuous discharge.
“Today we’ve crossed the threshold from possibility to reality,” says Siva Sivaram, president and CEO of QS. “Our world-leading battery innovation, combined with Ducati’s uncompromising craftsmanship and legendary commitment to performance, will help usher in a new era of electrified transportation.”
LiveWire is rolling out a limited-time Twist & Go promotion alongside a free software update designed to make its S2 electric motorcycles more accessible and rider-friendly.
Running through Oct. 31, the promotion delivers aggressive pricing incentives across the entire S2 lineup:
In addition, all S2 models will now receive two new software-driven features at no charge:
The update is already available in North America and is expected to reach European markets later this year.
For dealers, the combined push reflects LiveWire’s strategy to grow ridership by lowering the barrier to entry while improving the everyday usability of its electric motorcycles.
Verge Motorcycles has opened a new retail showroom inside the Bike Shed Moto Co. in downtown Los Angeles, marking another step in the electric superbike maker’s U.S. expansion. The location officially opened on Aug. 28.
The partnership brings Verge’s high-performance electric superbikes into one of the most recognized lifestyle hubs in the motorcycle community. Riders will have the opportunity to see Verge models up close, shop branded merchandise, and participate in weekend test rides.
“Expanding our retail presence in the USA, especially with Bike Shed Moto Co. in a dynamic market like Los Angeles, is a significant step for Verge. Customers will now be able to see, feel, and experience our bikes in an authentic environment that reflects our shared passion for motorcycling,” says Pekka Parnanen of Verge Motorcycles.
Bike Shed Moto Co. co-founder Vikki van Someren added: “We’re excited to welcome Verge Motorcycles into our Los Angeles store and give our members the chance to ride and see these electric beasts in the flesh.”
Located at 1580 Industrial St., the showroom marks Verge’s first major retail footprint in Southern California and is expected to play a key role in connecting the brand with U.S. riders.