ORNL has demonstrated a 20-kilowatt wireless charging system with 90 percent efficiency at three times the rate of most plug-in systems used today. Toyota, Cisco Systems, Evatran, and Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research all contributed to the technology demonstration.
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The fact that it charges three times faster than home chargers is significant, but the next goal of the ORNL joint project is a 50-kilowatt wireless charging capability. The higher power will equal most quick-charging stations and also be powerful enough to charge trucks and other larger vehicles.
Convenience and simplicity are keys to developing a wireless system. Honestly, it needs to be as simple as driving to a charging location without having to leave your car. However, because the power transmits through the air, safety is also a high priority. The magnetic fields used in this charging process are focused and shielded to ensure safety, according to the researchers.
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The ideal will be when we can charge our car batteries while we drive, but that another huge step. Charging in motion requires electrified streets and roadways, is a much greater financial commitment than stationary charging stations. The Tesla 3 sales orders and continued popularity of Toyota Prius hybrids demonstrates demand, but the majority of us will still wait for convenience to improve and costs to go down.
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