Indiana highway tests future of EV wireless charging

Monday, April 1, 2024

Groundbreaking Technology in Motion

In West Lafayette, Indiana, a pioneering project on a segment of highway currently under construction is poised to trial a technology capable of wirelessly charging electric vehicles, including semis, while they maintain speeds of 65 miles per hour. The technology, conceptualized with similarities to the wireless charging of cell phones but on a significantly larger scale, is a collaborative effort between Purdue University’s electrical and computer engineering faculty, including Professor Steve Pekarek, and the Indiana Department of Transportation.

This system involves a coil placed beneath the road’s surface, enabling the transfer of energy from the grid directly to a vehicle’s receiver as it passes over. This initiative stands out not only for its implementation on a highway but also for its adaptability to both electric passenger vehicles and larger electric trucks, setting it apart from other projects, including a notable one near downtown Detroit.

Addressing EV Adoption Challenges

The capability for electric vehicles to recharge while in transit could potentially overcome several obstacles hindering broader EV adoption. Currently, the necessity for large batteries — driven by range anxiety among consumers — not only prolongs charging times but also escalates the costs and environmental impact associated with EV production. Moreover, these larger batteries pose increased risks in accidents. Specifically, the feasibility of electric 18-wheelers for cross-country deliveries remains limited due to impractical charging durations. This technology promises a solution, potentially revolutionizing long-haul electric trucking and significantly lowering EV ownership costs.

Purdue’s research team has developed a technology that is adaptable to various vehicle types, facilitating a communication process between the vehicle and the roadway to determine the required power transfer.

The Road Ahead

Having undergone rigorous durability testing to simulate the impact of heavy truck traffic and energy transfer efficiency in a laboratory setting, the project is now moving to the installation phase along a quarter-mile stretch of highway. This pilot program, slated to commence in May 2025 and extend through the summer, will feature tests conducted with an electric truck provided by Cummins.

This trial aims to explore the system’s long-term viability, including its resilience to roadway damage, weather conditions, and overall efficiency. Success in this initial phase could lead to the expansion of wirelessly charging highways, particularly across key freight corridors, heralding a new era in electric vehicle travel and infrastructure.

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