Bill Gates-backed startup QuantumScape released data yesterday suggesting it may have cracked a major challenge facing electric vehicle batteries. Among other features, prototypes can be charged to 80% capacity within 15 minutes, provide almost double the driving range of current electric vehicles, and boast a battery lifetime equivalent of 240,000 miles. If accurate, the technology would address the most significant hurdles that have thus far slowed electric vehicle adoption—recharging time, range, and cost.  

QuantumScape says its key breakthrough involves the use of a solid-state electrolyte and a proprietary ceramic separator that protects its lithium anode, allowing it to sidestep many of the limitations and safety concerns of lithium-ion batteries. Watch a great overview of the technology here.

Volkswagen, a major investor in the company, aims to have the batteries in cars by 2025, though one daunting challenge remains—scaling from a pilot line to multicell commercial manufacturing.

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