Japan: City implements EV wireless charging pilot program

Reports suggest that a 10-second roll over the coils adds 1 km of range to the EVs.

According to a media report, a city near Tokyo, Japan, is said to be testing wireless charging technology for electric vehicles.

As per reports, the Smart City of Kashiwa-no-ha is conducting a pilot program run by the Universities of Tokyo & Chiba, in partnership with 9 other companies. The University of Tokyo is said to have created the in-motion power supply system, with the researchers now testing for durability and its ability to provide consistent charge to EVs and PHEVs driving over it.

The wireless charging tech uses charging coils embedded in the road's surface at traffic signals. The system passes current wirelessly only after detecting a vehicle. EVs or PHEVs get a special device installed near the tyres, which allows them to receive electricity when they slow down while approaching the traffic lights.

Reports suggest that a 10-second roll over the coils adds 1 km of range to the EVs.

The pilot program is said to be conducted from October through to March by the University of Tokyo, under the direction of the Ministry of Transport.

Source: Electrek