QuantumScape Corporation (NYSE: QS) gathered distinguished representatives, including battery equipment and materials suppliers, government leaders and automotive customers to discuss and strengthen the solid-state battery ecosystem. The Solid-State Batteries Symposium highlighted the critical role this next-generation technology plays in driving future energy storage solutions for the automotive industry.
The Symposium featured remarks from the Honorable Koji Matsui, Mayor of Kyoto, Satoshi Nohara, Director General of Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), along with QuantumScape CEO Dr. Siva Sivaram, and other industry experts.
“Kyoto City has been committed to fostering innovation in the environmental and energy sectors by harnessing the wealth of knowledge concentrated in companies, universities, and other institutions, with the goal of achieving a sustainable future,” said the Honorable Koji Matsui, Mayor of Kyoto. “We have high expectations for QuantumScape Corporation, a frontrunner to the research and development of solid-state batteries—an essential technology for next-generation electric vehicles—to pioneer groundbreaking innovations here in Kyoto. Kyoto City will continue its efforts to support startups, foster business development, and attract diverse array of talent and companies from across Japan and the globe, driving innovation at an accelerated pace.”
Satoshi Nohara, Director General of METI, added: “The all-solid-state battery is a game-changing technology that has the potential to significantly surpass the performance of conventional lithium-ion batteries. In the Battery Industry Strategy, Japan has set a target of commercializing all-solid-state batteries by around 2030, and the public and private sectors are working together to achieve this target. It is highly meaningful that various members from both sectors met at the symposium to share and discuss engagement in the practical application of all-solid-state batteries. This reflects Japan’s continued commitment to taking a technological leadership role in deepening global collaboration in this field.”
“Japan has a rich history of battery innovation and QuantumScape is leading efforts to develop and commercialize solid-state batteries,” said Dr. Siva Sivaram. “It was an honor to join so many Japanese leaders to discuss how we can use the country’s excellence in battery science and the supply chain network to accelerate progress toward a cleaner, more efficient future.”
Batteries are at the heart of the transportation revolution, but today’s conventional lithium-ion batteries fall short of meeting the needs of the automotive sector in several key areas, limiting their performance. QuantumScape’s solid-state lithium-metal batteries are designed to charge faster, provide longer range, and operate more safely than their lithium-ion counterparts. QuantumScape opened an office in Kyoto, Japan in 2022 and has collaborated with battery tool manufacturers and materials suppliers across the Asia-Pacific region for many years.
