The future of inductive charging for electric transport in the UK and EU

As the world transitions towards electric vehicles (EVs), innovative charging technologies are playing an essential role in shaping the future of transport. One such technology gaining attention is inductive charging, commonly called wireless charging. This system offers a convenient, cable-free solution for charging electric vehicles, and its potential for widespread adoption in the UK and EU is increasingly being explored. In this article, we will discuss what inductive charging is, how it works, where it’s currently being trialled, and whether it could become a feasible and common charging solution for the future of electric mobility (E-mobility).

What is inductive charging?

Inductive charging, or wireless charging, is a technology that allows electric vehicles to charge their batteries without needing a physical cable connection. Instead of plugging the car into a charger, drivers simply park over a special charging pad embedded in the ground. This pad generates an electromagnetic field that transfers energy to the vehicle’s battery, enabling it to recharge without needing cables or plugs.

Inductive charging technology is already commonly used in smaller devices like smartphones and electric toothbrushes. However, its application for EVs is still in its early stages, with a few trials and projects underway in Europe and the UK.

How does inductive charging work?

Inductive charging works through electromagnetic induction, a process in which energy is transferred between two coils – one in the charging pad and one installed in the vehicle. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the process:

1. Charging pad: The charging pad, which is installed on the road or in a parking space, contains a coil that creates an alternating electromagnetic field when connected to a power source.
2. Receiver in the vehicle: A receiving coil installed underneath the vehicle picks up the electromagnetic field generated by the charging pad.
3. Energy transfer: The electromagnetic field induces an electric current in the vehicle's coil, which is then used to charge the car’s battery.

For this system to work efficiently, the vehicle must be correctly aligned with the charging pad. The process is seamless and allows for energy transfer without any physical connection, making charging more convenient, especially in public areas or for fleet operators.

How can Inductive charging benefit EV drivers?

Inductive charging offers several benefits that could enhance the EV ownership experience and encourage wider adoption of electric vehicles.

1. Convenience: One of the most appealing aspects of inductive charging is the convenience it provides. Drivers can simply park their vehicle over the charging pad, and the charging process begins automatically, without needing to handle cables or plugs. This could be particularly beneficial for those with physical limitations or for use in public areas where charging cables could be tampered with.
2. Reduced wear and tear: Because there is no need for physical connections, inductive charging eliminates the wear and tear associated with plugging and unplugging cables. Over time, this could extend the lifespan of both the charging infrastructure and the vehicle’s charging ports.
3. Improved aesthetics: By embedding the charging technology in the ground, inductive charging systems reduce street clutter caused by visible charging stations and cables. This could make urban environments more attractive and pedestrian-friendly.
4. Fleet efficiency: For commercial fleets, such as taxis or delivery vehicles, inductive charging could offer a streamlined charging process. Vehicles can charge while waiting in designated ranks or parking areas, reducing downtime and improving operational efficiency.

Where in Europe is inductive charging currently being used?

Several European countries are leading the way in testing inductive charging for electric vehicles:

1. Germany: In Karlsruhe, inductive charging technology is being tested for buses on public transport routes. These buses charge wirelessly at selected stops, reducing the need for extended downtime at charging stations.
2. France: A pilot project in Paris has been exploring wireless charging for electric taxis. This initiative aims to test the feasibility of integrating inductive charging pads in taxi ranks to allow taxis to charge while they wait for passengers.
3. Norway: In Oslo, a trial is underway to wirelessly charge electric taxis. This project has been designed to test the scalability of inductive charging for the broader electric taxi fleet and could set the stage for future expansion across Europe.

Has the UK trialled inductive charging in the past?

Yes, the UK has already trialled inductive charging technology. In Nottingham, the city became the first in the UK to trial wireless charging for electric taxis under the Wireless Charging of Electric Taxis (WiCET) project. As part of this trial, nine council-owned electric taxis were fitted with wireless charging equipment, and five charging pads were installed at the Trent Street taxi rank. The trial has shown promising results, with drivers able to charge their taxis while waiting for passengers, reducing downtime and improving efficiency.

The success of this trial has placed Nottingham and the UK at the forefront of exploring wireless charging technologies. It also demonstrated the potential for reducing street clutter, as there are no visible cables or charging stations, which could prove crucial for urban planning in cities aiming for cleaner transport.

Is inductive charging a feasible charging solution?

Inductive charging has the potential to be a highly feasible solution for EV drivers, but its success will depend on several factors, including cost, infrastructure investment, and the rate of technology adoption. While the technology is convenient and efficient, there are some barriers that need to be addressed:

• Cost: The installation of wireless charging pads can be expensive, and retrofitting existing vehicles with the necessary receiver coils may also increase costs for consumers. Governments and manufacturers will need to find ways to make the technology more affordable to encourage widespread adoption.
• Infrastructure: Significant investment in infrastructure is needed to implement inductive charging on a large scale. Charging pads would need to be installed in public parking areas, taxi ranks, and at fleet depots, requiring coordination between governments and private companies.
• Energy transfer efficiency: While inductive charging is convenient, it can be less efficient than traditional plug-in chargers. Some energy is lost during the transfer process, meaning that charging times may be longer, and energy costs could be higher.

What are the pros and cons of Inductive charging?

Pros:

• Convenience: No need for cables or physical connections, making charging easier for drivers.
• Safety: Reduced risk of cable tampering or tripping hazards in public spaces.
• Aesthetic: Cleaner urban environments without visible charging stations.
• Future-proofing: May improve with further technological advancements.

Cons:

• Cost: Higher initial investment for both infrastructure and retrofitting vehicles.
• Energy Loss: Slightly less efficient than traditional plug-in charging, which could lead to longer charging times.
• Alignment Requirements: Vehicles need to be correctly aligned with charging pads for effective charging.
• Limited Availability: Currently, only available in trial stages in select areas.

What would the EU & the UK need to do to bring inductive charging to fruition?

For inductive charging to become a widespread solution in the UK and EU, several steps need to be taken:

1. Investment in infrastructure: Governments and private companies need to collaborate on building the necessary infrastructure. This includes installing charging pads in public areas, commercial fleets, and private homes.
2. Subsidies and incentives: Governments could offer incentives to help offset the cost of installing inductive charging systems in vehicles and public spaces, making the technology more accessible to consumers.
3. Standardisation: Industry-wide standards need to be established to ensure compatibility between different manufacturers’ vehicles and charging pads. Standardisation will also help reduce costs and simplify installation.
4. Public awareness: Increasing public awareness of the benefits of inductive charging is essential to encourage consumer demand and widespread adoption.

Conclusion

Inductive charging presents an exciting opportunity for the future of electric transport in the UK and EU. While there are challenges to overcome, including costs and infrastructure investment, the benefits of convenience, safety, and reduced street clutter make it an appealing option for EV drivers. With successful trials already underway in cities like Nottingham, there is potential for wider adoption across Europe.

As governments and industries continue to push for cleaner transport solutions, inductive charging could play a key role in the future of electric mobility. By investing in the necessary infrastructure and raising awareness of its benefits, the UK and EU can help bring this innovative technology to fruition, paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future.