Inductive charging: Stretch of highway converted to allow EVs to charge as they move

Norwegian green technology company ENRX has wind a $US13.6 million to convert a one-mile stretch of highway in Florida to allow for inductive charging of electric vehicles.

The dynamic wireless charging system will allow vehicles to charge while driving along a one-mile stretch of a four-lane highway in Florida.

The company, which was formed earlier this year through the merger of EFD Induction and IPT Technology, bills itself as a “pioneer in wireless dynamic charging technology”.

Before their merger, EFD Induction manufactured a range of induction technologies for the automotive and renewable energy industries. Meanwhile, IPT Technology provided a range of wireless charging solution for e-mobility applications and contactless power supply systems.

ENRX says it now boasts over 1,200 patents for induction technology and offers products which can provide inductive heating, charging, and power.

ENRX will now partner with the Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX) and ASPIRE Engineering Research Center to deliver a one-mile electrified roadway on the new State Route 516, near Orlando, Florida.

Of all the states in the United States, Florida is not one which has a reputation as being particularly friendly to decarbonisation and electrification efforts, due in large part to the current governor Ron DeSantis’s efforts to hit back at anything he considers even vaguely “woke”.

However, despite DeSantis, Florida nevertheless boasts the second highest number of electric vehicles in the country behind only the Liberal haven of California – highlighting just how unstoppable is the electrification of the automotive sector.

ENRX will supply a charging system capable of providing charging of 200kW for any type of EV that has a receiver pad on the underside of the vehicle. As a comparison, typical fast charging is generally below 150kW and rapid charging offers power upwards of 150kW.

Electric coils embedded in the roadway deliver electricity to the receiver pad, allowing for wireless charging on the move even when at highway speeds.

“When you can charge while driving, range anxiety and frequent charging stops will be a thing of the past,” said Bjørn Eldar Petersen, ENRX CEO.

“Our unparalleled expertise in induction technology allows us to deliver charging at 200kW even at high speeds. No one else has the technology to offer anything similar.”

ENRX’s dynamic wireless charging technology is designed to be uniquely future-proof, capable of operating with different types of vehicles and batteries, custom distance for ground and vehicle, as well as dynamic and static charging.

According to ENRX, once it has been installed, the charging system will be maintenance free and will last for several decades.

“Dynamic charging offers a new level of freedom and flexibility for electric car drivers by eliminating the need for frequent stops at charging stations and enabling longer distances to be covered without recharging,” said Petersen.

“This technology also opens up new opportunities for electric long-haul trucking. Dynamic charging can reduce the need for large battery capacities, allowing cars to be equipped with lighter and more affordable battery packs.

“This further enhances the benefits of electric vehicles by making them more accessible to a wider range of consumers. This is good for both the economy and the environment.”