Stark Future has formalized a strategic partnership with EVE Energy to mass-produce a new 26120 cylindrical battery cell format designed specifically for high-performance electric motorcycles.
This collaboration enables industrialization of a motorcycle-optimized cell that prioritizes space efficiency, thermal performance, weight reduction, and cost compared to automotive-derived 21700 cells.
Highlights
- New 26120 cylindrical cell format enters mass production in 2026 through EVE Energy.
- Prototype cells achieve 330 Wh/kg energy density with 10-minute ultra-fast charging.
- Aluminum cell enclosure improves thermal conductivity and reduces weight versus steel cans.
- Cell designed exclusively for motorcycle chassis constraints and performance demands.
Partnership Details and Cell Specifications
The 26120 cell format, developed by Stark Future, measures 26 mm in diameter and 120 mm in length. This dimension exploits the narrower width of motorcycle frames compared to automobiles.
Key advantages over conventional 21700 cells include higher packing density within chassis limits, improved heat dissipation, and lower overall system mass and cost.
Prototypes tested at Stark’s Barcelona-area R&D center demonstrate:
- Energy density: 330 Wh/kg (tested under controlled conditions)
- Fast-charge capability: Full charge in approximately 10 minutes
- Enclosure material: Aluminum housing for superior thermal conductivity and lighter weight
These specifications position the 26120 as one of the highest energy-density cylindrical formats currently available.
Strategic Rationale
Stark Future CEO Anton Wass emphasized that adapting automotive cells compromises motorcycle performance. The dedicated 26120 architecture avoids such limitations by maximizing capacity, minimizing weight, and accelerating charge times.
EVE Energy contributes its cylindrical-cell manufacturing expertise. In 2024, EVE ranked as China’s largest cylindrical battery supplier and fourth globally, with leading 18650 shipment volume worldwide.
Production and Application Timeline
EVE Energy will prepare industrial-scale production lines for the 26120 cell starting in 2026.
Stark Future plans to integrate the new cells into forthcoming on-road electric motorcycle platforms, building on the technology proven in its VARG motocross model.
Company Profiles
Stark Future – Barcelona-based electric motorcycle manufacturer founded in 2020. The company’s VARG model holds the performance benchmark in electric motocross.
EVE Energy – Shenzhen-listed battery producer operating gigafactories in China, Malaysia, the United States, and Hungary. Focuses on high-performance cylindrical cells for multiple mobility segments.
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