USA to test wireless charging technology for EVs

The pilot program itself is said to be split into three phases, which includes a lot of testing, analysis and data crunching in the first two phases.

The Indiana Department of Transport (INDOT) has announced its plans to develop a new wireless charging system for EVs.

According to a media report, the authorities will conduct a pilot program wherein the wireless charging technology will be embedded onto the pavement, allowing EVs to either charge on the go or while being parked.

While there have been earlier reports of studies on this kind of charging infrastructure, this is the first time a US department of transport has given the go-ahead for the project.

The wireless charging project is said to be developed by INDOT and Purdue University, in association with a German company called Magment – a manufacturer of magnetic cement. The pilot program itself is said to be split into three phases, which includes a lot of testing, analysis and data crunching in the first two phases.

Phase three is when the technology will be implemented on public roads. As per the program, initially, a quarter-mile stretch will be fitted with the wireless charging system, although the exact location of the site is yet to be confirmed.

Post phase three and all the testing, the technology will have its first real rollout on a highway somewhere in the state. Having said that, reports do suggest that the exact timeline for this is yet unknown.

The state will install wireless charging pads on both the highways, as well as car parking areas. These charging pads will be installed by Magment. Also, the electric cars wanting to use this technology will have to install an under-car charging coil.

Reports also suggest that INDOT is working with Magment’s panels to test them specifically for heavy trucks, at 200 kW and above fast charging.

Source: Read Full Article