Mayor Duggan among those welcoming the future of roads to Michigan

Michigan installs the nation’s first wireless-charging public roadway, marking a major milestone in the future of mobility and electrification.

In a groundbreaking development for the future of transportation, Michigan has installed the nation’s first wireless-charging public roadway. The project, located in Detroit’s Michigan Central innovation district, aims to test and perfect wireless-charging technology for electric vehicles (EVs) in a real-world environment. This milestone not only positions Michigan and Detroit as leaders in innovation and technology but also paves the way for a zero-emission mobility future. With the support of Governor Gretchen Whitmer and various partners, Michigan is poised to lead the nationwide charge towards electrification of vehicles and roadways.

Electreon’s wireless charging technology revolutionizes EV charging

Electreon, the company behind the wireless charging technology, utilizes 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 charging segments of the road, electricity is transferred wirelessly through a magnetic field, charging the vehicle’s battery. This technology can facilitate both static charging while parked and dynamic charging while in motion. The inductive-charging roadway ensures energy transfer is controlled and provided only to vehicles that require it, prioritizing safety for drivers, pedestrians, and wildlife.

Michigan’s commitment to electrification and innovation

Michigan has long been at the forefront of automotive innovation, and this latest development underscores the state’s commitment to advancing electrification. Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced her support in February 2021 for building the first public in-road charging system in the United States. The partnership between the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and Electreon includes a five-year commitment to develop the electric road system (ERS) and pilot the technology on Michigan roads. This collaboration aligns with the state’s MI Future Mobility Plan, which aims to solidify Michigan’s leadership in mobility.

The significance of the Michigan Central innovation district

The wireless-charging roadway is situated in Detroit’s Michigan Central innovation district, a hub for technological advancements and mobility solutions. The district, home to over 60 tech and mobility startups, provides an ideal environment for testing and refining next-generation technologies like Electreon’s wireless charging. Michigan Central CEO Joshua Sirefman highlights the district’s role in fueling innovation, creating jobs, and attracting investment to Detroit. By collaborating with key partners across the public and private sectors, Michigan Central aims to address global mobility challenges and expedite solutions.

Testing and future plans

The installation of the wireless-charging roadway on 14th Street is just the beginning. Extensive testing of the inductive charging technology is set to commence in early 2024, using an EV Transit shuttle provided by Ford Motor Co. Equipped with the Electreon receiver, the shuttle will undergo efficiency and operational testing, exploring potential long-term public transportation opportunities. MDOT plans to seek bids in 2024 to rebuild part of Michigan Avenue (US-12) with additional inductive charging infrastructure. Electreon has also installed static inductive charging stations in front of Michigan Central Station, enabling EVs equipped with Electreon receivers to charge while parked.

The vision for a sustainable future

Mayor Mike Duggan emphasizes Detroit’s legacy of transportation innovation and celebrates the addition of the nation’s first wireless charging public roadway to the city’s list of achievements. The project aligns with Detroit’s commitment to sustainable and equitable mobility solutions. By developing electrified roadways, Michigan aims to accelerate interest and acceptance of EVs for all consumers. MDOT Director Bradley C. Wieferich highlights the importance of providing reliable charging sources that do not disrupt commutes, supporting both fleet operations and passenger travel while reducing emissions.

Conclusion:

Michigan’s installation of the nation’s first wireless-charging public roadway marks a significant milestone in the future of mobility and electrification. The collaboration between Electreon, MDOT, and various partners showcases Michigan’s commitment to innovation and leadership in the automotive industry. As the state continues to test and refine wireless-charging technology, it sets the stage for a zero-emission mobility future where EVs become the norm. With the support of Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Central innovation district, Michigan is poised to lead the way in electrification and revolutionize the future of transportation.


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