Imagine charging your EV just by driving - no cables, no stops. Europe is turning this into reality with smart roads that wirelessly charge electric vehicles on the move.
These“smart roads”use inductive charging tech - coils embedded beneath the surface transmit power wirelessly to EVs with compatible receivers. It's like a giant wireless phone charger, but for cars.
Italy: The Arena del Futuro
Outside Milan, Stellantis is testing a 1,050-meter test track with wireless charging embedded under the asphalt. Early tests show it's capable of charging EVs at highway speeds. Game changer for logistics.
Sweden: eRoadArlanda
Sweden built the world's first electric road that charges vehicles via a conductive rail. Now they're scaling up with Smart Road Gotland, using wireless inductive charging — even in winter conditions.
Germany: DWPT Trials
Germany is investing heavily in Dynamic Wireless Power Transfer (DWPT). A key pilot is running near Karlsruhe, where electric buses charge as they move. Long-haul trucking is next on the roadmap.
UK: National Highways Plan
The UK is exploring in-road charging tech for freight corridors. Trials are underway to assess feasibility for heavy-duty trucks, using both inductive and overhead charging solutions.
Why it matters:
- No more charging stops
- Smaller batteries = lighter cars
- Continuous power for trucks, buses
- Perfect for fleets and highways
Challenges:
- Cost of infrastructure upgrades
- Interoperability across vehicle types
- Tech standardization and efficiency
- Weather durability and maintenance
But the vision is bold:
By 2030, Europe could see electric highways where EVs never need to plug in.
Wireless charging roads are no longer sci-fi. They're being built now. Europe is leading the charge. Do share your thoughts about this in the comments.
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