Detroit, Michigan has marked a groundbreaking achievement in the realm of vehicle electrification with the completion of the nation’s inaugural wireless-charging public roadway.
Utilizing cutting-edge technology developed by Electreon, the recently installed inductive-charging coils on 14thStreet are poised to recharge electric vehicles (EVs) equipped with compatible receivers as they navigate the road.
This pioneering project aims to rigorously test and refine Electreon’s wireless-charging technology in a real-world setting, paving the way for its anticipated public release in the coming years.
Electreon Vice President of Business Development, Dr. Stefan Tongur, said, “We’re excited to spearhead the development and deployment of America’s first wireless charging road. This milestone stands as a testament to our collaborative efforts with the State of Michigan and the Department of Transportation (MDOT).”
The charging road, situated between Marantette and Dalzelle streest, serves as a pivotal initiative to address the inherent range limitations of electric vehicles. Governor Gretchen Whitmer, an advocate for the electrification movement, heralded this milestone.
The pilot initiative was unveiled in September 2021, driven by a five-year commitment between the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and Electreon to develop the nation’s premier wireless charging infrastructure on a public road, or the electric road system (ERS).
Electreon’s wireless charging technology relies on inductive coupling, establishing a connection between copper coils beneath the road surface and receivers affixed to the undersides of electric vehicles. The road’s electricity transfer mechanism operates through a magnetic field exclusively when a vehicle with a compatible receiver approaches the in-road charging segments.
These charging segments facilitate wireless electricity transfer to the car battery, whether the vehicle is stationary (static charging) or in motion (dynamic charging).
Notably, the electric road prioritizes safety for drivers, pedestrians, and wildlife. Activation of each coil occurs only when a vehicle equipped with an approved receiver passes over it, ensuring controlled energy transfer provided solely to vehicles in need.
Under the collaboration between MDOT and Electreon, a mile-long stretch of inductive charging roadway has been installed in Detroit’s historic Corktown neighborhood. This strategically located charging road runs alongside the Newlab at Michigan Central Building, serving as a testing ground for further refining this innovative technology.
Looking ahead to 2024, MDOT plans to invite bids for the reconstruction of a segment of US-12 (Michigan Avenue), incorporating additional inductive charging infrastructure.
Electreon has also installed two static inductive charging stations in front of Michigan Central Station, enabling the charging of Electreon-equipped vehicles during stationary periods.
Early 2024 will witness extensive testing of the inductive charging technology. Employing a Ford E-Transit electric commercial van, generously provided by Ford Motor Co. and equipped with the Electreon receiver, the evaluation will assess efficiency and operational aspects while exploring potential long-term public transportation applications.
“Making it easier for EV users to find a reliable charging source without disrupting their commute supports both fleet operations and passenger travel,” said MDOT Director Bradley C. Wieferich.
Electreon’s global footprint extends to 18 projects spanning eight countries. Notable endeavors include powering buses in Israel and electrifying roads in France, China, Norway, and Sweden.
Acknowledging its pioneering contribution, Electreon’s wireless in-road charging technology secured a spot among Time Magazine’s top 100 inventions for 2021. As the momentum behind wireless charging infrastructure builds, Detroit’s initiative stands as a testament to the transformative potential of innovative solutions in the evolving landscape of electric vehicle technology.
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