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Major Collaboration to Standardize Wireless EV Charging Technology

In a significant move that promises to reshape the electric vehicle (EV) charging landscape, two leading companies in wireless inductive charging have entered into an agreement. Philadelphia-based InductEV and Skien, Norway-based ENRX AS have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to create technical standards for wireless EV charging technology, ensuring better interoperability across the industry.

Both companies are recognized globally for their pioneering roles in the wireless charging sector. The burgeoning interest in wireless inductive charging was notably influenced by Tesla's announcement of its autonomous robotaxi, which utilizes a low-power wireless charging system. This development has accelerated the need for a more universal standard that can support higher power levels, crucial for mitigating the range anxiety that has traditionally hindered EV adoption.

InductEV specializes in providing wireless charging solutions primarily for commercial electric vehicles, while ENRX has over 75 years of experience in energy transfer systems, making the partnership a natural fit. The MOU outlines various areas of collaboration, including:

Support for SAE J2954 Standardization Efforts

Both companies plan to allocate resources and technical expertise towards the SAE J2954 standardization initiatives, contributing to the development of standards that can unify the wireless charging ecosystem.

Compatibility and Interoperability Testing

InductEV and ENRX will jointly test their wireless charging technologies to ensure they can operate seamlessly across different electric vehicle platforms. This means that vehicles from various manufacturers can utilize the same charging technology without issue, promoting a more versatile charging infrastructure.

Industry Advocacy and Promotion

The two companies will actively advocate for the adoption of universal standards, promoting the numerous advantages of wireless charging within the automotive industry and to relevant regulatory bodies. This step will be crucial in making wireless charging accessible, reliable, and compatible for all stakeholders.

John Rizzo, CEO of InductEV, expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating, "We look forward to partnering with the engineers at ENRX to standardize wireless charging technology on a global scale. The transportation sector is at a tipping point for adopting this technology, and our collaboration is essential for ensuring that end customers and vehicle manufacturers have multiple supply options for this critical technology."

The partnership aims to leverage InductEV’s extensive experience in wireless energy transfer—having already delivered gigawatts of power wirelessly, surpassing the total output of the entire industry to date. The companies are optimistic that their cooperation will not only enhance user experience but will also accelerate the widespread adoption of wireless inductive charging.

Magnus Vold, CCO of ENRX, added, "We have been closely monitoring InductEV's model for wireless inductive vehicle charging and have found significant common ground technologically. With our experience in high-power wireless charging in Europe, we recognize the pressing need for greater standardization in the automotive sector. Our partnership with InductEV is a pivotal step in achieving those standards."

This collaboration underscores the critical nature of standardization in the EV sector, as noted by Nils-Gunnar Vågstedt from Scania Group. He remarked that standardization and interoperability have revolutionized the modern trucking industry, making operations safer and more cost-effective.

The Future of Wireless EV Charging

InductEV’s innovative approach to wireless charging makes use of inductive charging pads that activate when paired with compatible vehicle pads. The systems can output between 75 kW and 450 kW, paving the way for more efficient charging that reduces dependency on lengthy, traditional charging methods. This allows for shorter, more frequent charging sessions during the day, optimizing energy consumption and enhancing the utility of renewables for fleet operators.

ENRX has already implemented its wireless induction charging technology in various applications, including electric buses in major European cities and is currently working on the world’s first 200 kW electrified roadway in Orlando, Florida.

As both companies work towards finalizing their standards, the wider adoption of wireless charging technology could lead to unprecedented advancements in the electric vehicle market, benefiting manufacturers, users, and the environment alike. The path ahead looks promising, with innovations and collaborations setting the stage for a more connected and efficient future in transportation.