In a groundbreaking development, France has introduced the world’s first motorway equipped with a dynamic wireless charging system for electric vehicles. This innovative setup allows vehicles to charge while in motion, potentially transforming the future of sustainable transport.
Located approximately 40 km southwest of Paris on the A10 motorway, this pioneering project is a collaborative effort led by VINCI Autoroutes, joined by Electreon, VINCI Construction, Gustave Eiffel University, and Hutchinson. Known as the “Charge as you drive” initiative, this venture marks a significant step forward in electric vehicle infrastructure.
As detailed in a press release, the project has advanced to a real-traffic testing phase following extensive laboratory evaluations. Coils have been embedded over a 1.5 km stretch of the motorway, enabling various prototype vehicles, including a heavy-duty truck, utility vehicle, passenger car, and bus, to test the technology under typical driving conditions.
Initial testing results are encouraging. The inductive system has achieved peak power outputs exceeding 300 kW, with average power above 200 kW during optimal conditions. These figures were independently verified by laboratories at Gustave Eiffel University, testing the live installation.
According to VINCI Autoroutes’ CEO Nicolas Notebaert, “Deploying this technology on France’s main road networks, in addition to charging stations, will further accelerate the electrification of heavy-vehicle fleets—and thereby reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the freight and logistics sector, which alone accounts for more than 16 % of the country’s total emissions.”
Electreon CEO Oren Ezer emphasized, “This is a pivotal moment in the global development of electric roads … our technology is the only one capable of delivering dynamic vehicle charging with such power and reliability—without any competitors able to match its standard.”
Understanding the Technology
The dynamic induction charging system operates by embedding coils beneath the road surface, which generate a magnetic field. Vehicles equipped with receiver coils can harness this magnetic field to produce an electrical current, powering the vehicle’s battery or motor.
This method eliminates the need for vehicles to stop for charging, offering continuous power delivery while on the move. This could lead to smaller, lighter batteries, reducing downtime and increasing the payload capacity for heavy-duty vehicles.
The technology’s success relies on the precise alignment of the coils, constant power transfer monitoring via sensors and software, and durable materials capable of withstanding heavy traffic. The project underwent rigorous testing to simulate 25 years of heavy-truck traffic, ensuring the integrity of the pavement.
Dynamic wireless charging presents an alternative to large battery packs and static charging stations, potentially ushering in a new era of road freight electrification. The use of smaller batteries not only reduces costs and weight but also conserves raw materials, promoting sustainability.
International Progress in Electric Road Systems
While France leads with its motorway-scale trial, other countries are also exploring electric road systems (ERS). Germany is preparing a pilot on the A6 motorway near Bavaria, set to begin in 2025. Italy’s “Arena del Futuro” project in Lombardy is testing similar technology, and Sweden has conducted extensive evaluations despite recommending against a nationwide rollout for cost reasons.
Other dynamic charging trials are underway in the U.S., China, South Korea, and Israel. These global initiatives are crucial in establishing technical standards, cost models, and viable business cases for ERS, with induction technology being one of several options considered.
The Significance of France’s Initiative
The A10 motorway trial is significant as it transitions dynamic wireless charging from theoretical concepts to practical, real-world applications. Unlike previous experiments confined to controlled environments, this project integrates the technology into everyday motorway traffic.
For France and Europe, this development holds strategic importance. It reduces reliance on imported raw materials like lithium and cobalt by enabling smaller batteries. Moreover, continuous power delivery during travel could revolutionize the economics of freight electrification, while the production of ERS components supports local industrial growth.
As the pilot progresses, it will continue to collect data on performance, maintenance, and costs. Challenges remain regarding infrastructure expenses, power grid integration, and billing systems for larger motorway sections. The current 1.5 km stretch is a stepping stone toward potentially expanding the technology across Europe and beyond.
Original Story at interestingengineering.com