Summary
- Electric vehicle wireless charging is becoming a reality with pilot projects and advancements in technology
- Wireless charging allows for continuous charging while driving, reducing the need to stop and charge manually
- The Port of Long Beach will soon install wireless charging pads for electric cargo vehicles
- Wireless charging technology offers advantages such as no cables that can be stolen or damaged
- InductEV’s wireless charging systems can be integrated into different vehicles, providing cost savings and opportunities for fleet electrification.
Article
Electric vehicle wireless charging technology has been in development for some time, with pilot projects showcasing its potential. This technology would allow EVs to charge while on the move, eliminating the need to stop for charging unless desired by the driver. It could also enable periodic charging for unattended vehicles, maintaining battery health. Recently, it was announced that wireless charging pads will be installed at the Port of Long Beach for use by electric cargo vehicles, showcasing a practical application of this technology in a commercial setting. InductEV, the company behind the charging system, provides insights into the technology’s capabilities, including the ability to charge multiple vehicles simultaneously and the charge rates offered, ranging from 75 kW to 450 kW+.
Wireless charging offers several advantages over traditional EV chargers that use cables. One key benefit is the elimination of exposed or moving parts, reducing the risk of damage from accidents or vandalism. The technology also allows for on-route opportunity charging, providing vehicles with unlimited range and enabling a full transition to electric fleets without range limitations. Additionally, the compact design of wireless chargers saves space, making them suitable for urban areas with limited real estate for charging infrastructure. By enabling fleet operators to charge vehicles on the go, wireless charging reduces the need for multiple chargers and backup vehicles, ultimately saving costs and streamlining operations.
Compared to conventional plug-in chargers, wireless charging systems offer cost savings and efficiency benefits. They can achieve a 1 to 1 replacement of diesel vehicles with electric ones, without the need for additional vehicles to compensate for range limitations. With on-route charging, vehicles can complete their duty cycles without returning to a central depot for recharge, optimizing operational efficiency. The ability to charge vehicles throughout the day and at multiple locations also reduces the total number of chargers required, minimizing utility upgrades and demand charges. InductEV’s wireless charging pads at the Port of Long Beach aim to demonstrate these advantages, with five 150 kW chargers scheduled to be operational by 2025.
Wireless charging technology enables rapid and efficient charging for electric cargo vehicles, with full power charging beginning within seconds of parking over a charging pad. This instant charging capability, combined with high power efficiency and design reliability, makes wireless charging a compelling option for fleet operators looking to electrify their vehicles. The use of wireless on-route charging facilitates continuous operation without downtime for recharging, leading to increased productivity and reduced costs. By leveraging wireless charging technology, fleet operators can transition to electric vehicles seamlessly, maximizing the benefits of clean transportation while minimizing operational challenges.
In conclusion, wireless charging technology is poised to revolutionize the electric vehicle charging infrastructure, particularly for commercial and transit fleets. The installation of wireless charging pads at the Port of Long Beach represents a significant step towards demonstrating the practicality and efficiency of this technology in real-world applications. With its ability to charge multiple vehicles simultaneously, reduce operating costs, and optimize fleet electrification efforts, wireless charging offers a promising solution for the future of sustainable transportation. As advancements in wireless charging technology continue to evolve, the adoption of electric vehicles is expected to accelerate, driving the transition towards a cleaner and more efficient transportation system.
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