Honda plans to begin testing wireless charging technology for electric vehicles on the move later this year.
Honda R&D, the research and development arm of the Japanese automaker, has announced work on a wireless charging system that could replenish an electric vehicle’s battery while it is moving.
The technology uses inductive power transfer, a method similar to conventional wireless charging. The key difference is that part of the charging system is built into the road infrastructure, allowing an EV to receive electricity as it drives over the equipment.
Honda is developing the system in collaboration with Taisei Corporation, which has experience designing energy systems and installing power equipment beneath road surfaces.
Initial testing is planned at a test facility by the end of this year. For real-world trials, the equipment will be installed on a Japanese expressway.
If successful, the technology could offer a new way to charge electric vehicles without requiring drivers to stop at a charging station.