Wireless recharging is already a fairly common option in mobile phones, in such a way that it has become a common feature in them. Nevertheless it is not usual to be included in electric cars, despite the fact that several manufacturers have addressed its possible implementation and that even external companies also offer it as a already developed and functional product. A survey-based studycarried out by one of the leading companies in the sector, WiTricity, shows the interest of electric car drivers in this technology
The physical principle on which wireless charging is based is of the magnetic induction. A coil located on the ground in which a magnetic field is created by passing an electric current through it, induces another in the coil located in the lower part of the car, which in turn creates an electric current that feeds the battery and the recharge. The charging platform measures around one square meter, while the receiving one, in the car, is encased in a smaller device. The operation is completed by means of a mobile phone application, with intuitive graphics that simplifies the process of aligning the coils.
The wireless charging technology promises to change, for the better, the way users perceive electric mobility. Hand in hand with car manufacturers and external suppliers, this technology is becoming more efficient and the monitoring systems allow greater room for maneuver for recharging.
Some car manufacturers have tried to develop systems for their electric cars. In 2020, McLaren launched a wireless charging pad for the Speedtail, a hybrid hypercar. In 2018 and 2019, BMW also explored wireless charging, offering prototype wireless chargers in Europe and the US for some of the 530e buyers. However, the idea did not go ahead.
Studies ensure that owners of an electric vehicle clearly consider this an interesting option. Trying to exploit a business that can be very juicy, some companies are now trying to do what the manufacturers do not. An outstanding example is wave which has already demonstrated the potential of wireless charging using its chargers in electric buses.
Another company that is taking important steps in this area is WiTricity. This Massachusetts-based company is developing its own technology that uses magnetic resonance to enable remote wireless transfer. WiTricity already has serious backing, materializing in tens of millions in funding from its investors in recent years. Recently, the startup recently started working with hyundai. The collaboration aims to develop a wireless charger to be implemented in the Genesis GV60.
Hyundai is currently testing the technology at three stations in its native country. The wireless charger shown in the video is located at a charging station in South Korea.
Precisely, WiTricity recently conducted a study with which he wanted to show the acceptance of this technology among the owners of an electric vehicle. According to the survey, the 96% I would like to at least have the option of wireless recharging. In addition, the 71% considers the prospect of wireless charging “extremely attractive”.
