About us
A high-performance team for high-performance Li-ion cylindrical cells
Behind V4Smart is an interdisciplinary team of experienced experts and young talents specialising in the development and production of high-performance lithium-ion cylindrical cells. Our focus is on the technological advancement of electrochemical storage systems – from material research to scalable cell production. The aim is to sustainably strengthen the industrial performance and innovative power of lithium-ion cylindrical cell technology in Germany.
With in-depth expertise, state-of-the-art production processes and a high understanding of quality, we are actively contributing to technological sovereignty iin the field of high-performance lithium-ion cylindrical cells ‘Designed, Developed, Made in Germany’.
Our company history: a path of innovation and tradition
On March 4, 2025, Porsche AG took over the former V4Drive GmbH from the VARTA AG Group and transferred it to a new joint venture: . Since then, Porsche has been the majority shareholder of the company, while VARTA AG remains a minority shareholder.
The founding of V4Smart marks a significant step towards strengthening cell technology in Germany – with the aim of developing and producing high-performance lithium-ion cylindrical cells at an international level.
Future
stands for cell technology from Germany, developed for high-performance applications in and beyond the automotive industry. New target markets and customer groups are part of our strategy. Our production is based on specially developed, energy-efficient production facilities, some of which are powered by renewable energy. In this way, we contribute to sustainable value creation and technological sovereignty in Europe.
Present
combines the decades of battery cell expertise of VARTA AG with the mechanical engineering and industrialization expertise of Porsche AG – in particular through Porsche Werkzeugbau Group. The first generation of so-called booster cells is already being used as standard in the new Porsche 911 GTS with T-Hybrid drive and ensures exceptional driving dynamics. Production takes place at two locations:
- Ellwangen – series production since 2024
- Nördlingen – extended line since 2025, realized with Porsche Werkzeugbau Group.
Management:
- Lutz Kramer (CEO, former Porsche Werkzeugbau Group)
- Andreas Tschürtz (COO, former VARTA AG)
- Monika Steuss (CFO, former Porsche AG)
Around 400 jobs will be created by the end of 2025 – mostly with employees taken over from the VARTA Group.
Past
The Solution
emerged from the “Large Li-Ion Cells” business unit of VARTA AG, which was founded in 2021. Series production of the first cell generations began at the Ellwangen site in 2024. The change of name from V4Drive to stands for a strategic realignment and signals that the technology is being considered far beyond the automotive sector.
Milestones from over 135 years of experience in battery technology
2025
New joint venture & series production begins
Founding of the joint venture V4Smart GmbH & Co. KG with Porsche AG as the new majority owner and the start of expanded series production at the Nördlingen site.
2024
First automotive-grade cell production in Germany
Start of series production at the Ellwangen site of the first generation of lithium-ion cylindrical cells—marking the first automotive-grade battery cell production in Germany. Decision made to construct an additional production site in Nördlingen for further scaling.
2020
Launch of Li-ion large cell business
Kick-off for establishing the large-format Li-ion cylindrical cell business unit within VARTA AG.
