Honda made a big move in June 2026 toward producing solid-state batteries. They teamed up with QuantumScape to research and develop these batteries and their manufacturing methods. QuantumScape is known for its “anode-free” batteries, where the anode forms during the first charge. This design can boost electric vehicle range from 350 miles up to 400 to 500 miles using just one battery cell.
Honda says these solid-state batteries can recharge to 80 to 90 percent in minutes. That’s a huge improvement over current lithium-ion batteries. Solid electrolytes inside these batteries stop leakage, don’t catch fire, and work well in extreme temperatures. This could make electric cars safer and more reliable on the road.
Partnerships and Progress in Battery Supply Chains
QuantumScape also made a deal last year with Volkswagen’s battery firm PowerCo SE. This shows growing industry interest in solid-state batteries. Meanwhile, South Korea’s L&F signed a mid- to long-term supply agreement on July 29, 2026, with U.S. company Coreshell Technologies. L&F will provide lithium iron phosphate cathode materials.
This deal aims to expand electric mobility and defense applications. It also supports building a battery supply chain that avoids Chinese minerals and parts. Both L&F and Coreshell want to meet U.S. rules for strategic and defense industries. This reflects a push for more secure and diversified battery supply chains globally.
More Industry Moves and Innovations
LG Chem reported strong financial results for the second quarter of 2026. They made $9.9 billion in sales with a $419 million operating profit. That’s a 25.8 percent jump in operating profit compared to last year. Their subsidiary LG Energy Solution earned $5.3 billion in revenue and $79 million operating income. LG Chem’s life sciences division brought in $260 million in revenue and $42 million in operating profit.
In Japan, Honda Motor and Nissan Motor are exploring cooperation on software-defined vehicles. In 2024, they announced plans to work together on operating systems, batteries, and vehicle supply. They considered a business integration, but merger talks collapsed. Still, they continue to plan joint development, especially using Nissan’s vehicle software technology.
Quantum Tech Trial in China’s Power Grid
China tested quantum technology at a substation in Hefei, Anhui province, for 18 months. The trial used quantum tech to detect and diagnose equipment defects in the power system. Tian Teng from Anhui Electric Power Company said the trial proved quantum technology is no “showpiece.” It provided strong support for power supply and development.
Quantum technology could help improve energy grid reliability. This is part of a broader trend where new tech powers smarter infrastructure. Solid-state batteries, secure supply chains, and advanced software all play roles in the future of energy and transportation.
Honda’s move with QuantumScape and partnerships like L&F and Coreshell show how battery tech is evolving fast. Better batteries mean longer drives, faster charges, and safer cars. At the same time, companies and countries are building supply chains that reduce risk and boost security. Meanwhile, innovations like quantum diagnostics could transform how we manage power grids worldwide.
Based on
- Honda has a new partner for the advancement of solid-state battery technology — engadget.com
- South Korea’s L&F signs U.S. battery supply deal – UPI.com — upi.com
- LG Chem’s second-quarter profit jumps more than 25% year-on-year – UPI.com — upi.com
- Honda and Nissan to jointly develop next-generation car operating system – The Japan Times — japantimes.co.jp
- China hopes to banish blackouts as quantum tech puts power grid in superposition | South China Morning Post — scmp.com
