Technology charges EVs while they drive across the chargers embedded in the pavement
Michigan takes a major leap into the future of mobility and electrification with the installation of the nation’s first wireless-charging public roadway. Located in Detroit’s Michigan Central innovation district, this groundbreaking project aims to test and perfect wireless-charging technology for electric vehicles (EVs) in a real-world environment. With the support of key partners, including Electreon, Michigan is poised to establish itself as a leader in innovation and technology.
Electreon’s Vision: Unlocking Widespread EV Adoption
Electreon, the company behind the wireless charging technology, envisions a zero-emission mobility future where EVs become the norm. By addressing the limitations of limited range, grid capacity, and battery size and costs, wireless charging paves the way for widespread EV adoption. The collaborative efforts of Electreon, the State of Michigan, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), the City of Detroit, Michigan Central, Ford, Jacobs, Next Energy, and DTE have made this milestone possible.
How Wireless Charging Works
Electreon’s wireless charging technology is based on inductive coupling between copper coils installed below the road surface and receivers installed on EVs. As a vehicle equipped with an Electreon receiver drives over the inductive-charging coils embedded in the road, electricity is transferred wirelessly through a magnetic field. This energy is then transferred to the vehicle’s battery, charging it. The charging segments on the road can transfer electricity either when the vehicle is parked (static charging) or in motion (dynamic charging). Safety measures ensure that energy transfer only occurs when an approved receiver is present, making the electric road safe for drivers, pedestrians, and wildlife.
Governor Whitmer’s Support for Electrification
Governor Gretchen Whitmer has been a strong advocate for electrification and announced her support for building the first public in-road charging system in the United States in February 2021. MDOT and Electreon have entered into a five-year commitment to develop the electric road system (ERS) and pilot the technology on Michigan roads. This partnership aligns with the MI Future Mobility Plan, which aims to position Michigan as a leader in mobility.
The First Wireless Charging Road in Detroit’s Innovation District
The wireless charging road is located on 14th Street, between Marantette and Dalzelle streets, in Detroit’s Michigan Central innovation district. This quarter-mile segment of wireless charging roadway runs alongside the Newlab at Michigan Central Building, home to more than 60 tech and mobility startups. The proximity allows for further testing and advancement of this next-generation technology. In 2024, MDOT plans to seek bids to rebuild part of Michigan Avenue (US-12) with additional inductive charging installed.
The Future of Public Transportation
The wireless charging road project also opens up possibilities for public transportation. MDOT will be testing the efficiency and operations of an EV Transit shuttle provided by Ford Motor Co. This testing will help explore the potential for long-term public transportation opportunities and further advance the electrification of Michigan’s roadways.
Conclusion:
Michigan’s installation of the nation’s first wireless-charging public roadway marks a significant milestone in the future of mobility and electrification. With the support of key partners, Electreon’s wireless charging technology is poised to revolutionize the EV industry, addressing range limitations, grid capacity constraints, and battery costs. As Michigan continues to lead the way in innovation, this project sets the stage for a zero-emission mobility future, where EVs become the norm and contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation system.
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