There is no doubt that wireless charging technologies have the potential to revolutionize the electric vehicles (EV) industry, given their numerous benefits. They are turning out to be a powerful solution for electric vehicle charging, offering a convenient and efficient alternative to traditional plug-in charging methods.
Wireless charging eliminates the need for cables and plugs while enhancing convenience, making it a potential game-changer for the auto industry. This blog post examines the adoption of EV wireless charging, its advantages over traditional methods, and future possibilities. For more information on the global wireless charging market, kindly visit Coherent Market Insights’ recent report.
Adoption of Wireless Charging in Electric Vehicles
Wireless charging for electric vehicles uses inductive charging, where energy is transferred between a charging pad (transmitter) embedded in the ground and a receiver installed under the vehicle. Currently, premium automakers like BMW and Audi have introduced wireless charging options for select EV models.
Many European cities like Norway and Oslo are also testing wireless charging systems for public transport to enhance convenience and reduce emissions. This will likely result in expansion of wireless charging infrastructure.
Advantages of Wireless Charging Over in Electric Vehicles Over Traditional Methods
Wireless technologies transforming the future of EV charging by offering various advantages compared to traditional charging ones.
- Convenience
The first and foremost benefit of wireless charging is enhanced convenience. It eliminates the hassle of handling cables, thereby making charging as simple as parking the vehicle. Drivers simply need to park their vehicles over charging pads to initiate the charging automatically. This is particularly beneficial in adverse weather conditions like rain or snow.
- Supports Automation
Wireless charging supports automation in the automotive industry as it enables autonomous vehicle charging and eliminates the need for human intervention.
- Improves Safety
Wireless charging takes cables and connectors out of the equation, thereby reducing the risk of electrical shocks and tripping hazards.
Case Studies and Pilot Projects
While EV wireless charging is still in its infancy stages, many cities have already launched projects to expand wireless charging infrastructure and support rapid adoption of electric vehicles. They are partnering and collaborating with vendors for the supply of wireless electric vehicle charging solutions.
- Oslo’s Wireless Taxi Project
In June 2020, Oslo became the first city to test wireless charging for its taxi fleet. For this purpose, the City of Oslo joined forces with Jaguar Land Rover. Other project partners include US tech firm Momentum Dynamics, taxi operator Carbonline/NorgesTaxi, and charge point operator Fortum Recharge. The main aim of the ElectriCity initiative was to build wireless, high-powered charging infrastructure for taxis in Oslo.
- Sweden’s Electrified Roads
Recently, Sweden developed pilot electrified roads that use wireless dynamic charging to power vehicles in motion. The long electric rail embedded in public roads enables long-haul trucks and passenger cars to charge continuously while driving.
Future Possibilities of Wireless Charging in Auto Industry
- Dynamic Charging Networks
Dynamic wireless charging on highways could revolutionize long-distance EV travel, eliminating range anxiety and reducing the need for frequent charging stops. Trucks and delivery vehicles could charge while traveling.
- Integration with Autonomous Driving
When it comes to autonomous driving, wireless charging is a key enabler. It allows autonomous vehicles to charge themselves without human intervention. With growing popularity of autonomous vehicles, technologies like wireless charging are set to witness an uptick.
- Smart City Integration
Wireless charging infrastructure can be integrated with smart city grids, enabling efficient energy management and grid stabilization.
Challenges
While wireless charging technology continues to make its way in the auto industry, there are certain challenges limiting its adoption. These include high cost of installing wireless charging pads in public and private spaces, less efficiency, and slower speed.
