City embracing wireless charging for electric taxis and final leg deliveries
In the heart of Sweden's automotive industry, Gothenburg has taken a significant step towards a greener future by implementing a wireless charging system for electric taxis. This innovative technology, developed by InductEV, allows taxis to charge simply by parking over inductive pads embedded in the road.
The system, currently operational at three locations—Lindholmen Science Park, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, and the Swedish Exhibition & Congress Centre—has proven to be reliable and efficient, with a 100% uptime during the three-year trial. Over 10,000 charging events and the transfer of 140 MWh of energy across 5 million kilometers driven have been achieved[1][5].
Key features of the system include charging pads that deliver up to 75 kW of power each, enabling taxis to charge wirelessly without cables. The system also supports charging-as-a-service, with InductEV operating all three charging stations to enhance operational efficiency and scalability[1][5].
The wireless charging technology is a crucial part of Gothenburg's Green City Zone initiative, aimed at creating an emission-free transport system by 2030. By eliminating the need for physical cables, the system makes charging more convenient and efficient for busy taxi fleets in urban environments[3].
Ed Lynch-Bell, Principal at Second Mouse and a co-host of the Melbourne and Sydney EV Meet-ups, commends the initiative. "This wireless charging system is a game-changer for sustainable energy tech and mobility," he said[2].
The system's success in Gothenburg has led to its inclusion in the city's strategic electrification plan. Gothenburg aims to extend wireless charging to taxis, last-mile delivery, and other vehicles as part of its goal to become net zero by 2030[4].
While the technology is not yet affordable for every driver due to its high cost, it is seen as foundational for autonomous vehicles[6]. InductEV primarily conducts business with bus operators in the US, and securing manufacturer support to adapt their software to communicate with vehicles is a key focus[2].
Gothenburg, known for its innovative spirit, prides itself on being the most innovative city in an innovative country. Sweden ranks as the second most innovative economy in the world according to the World Intellectual Property Organisation[7]. With initiatives like the wireless charging system for taxis, Gothenburg continues to lead the way in sustainable urban transport.
[1] https://www.inductev.com/news/inductev-announces-wireless-charging-for-electric-taxis-in-gothenburg-sweden [2] https://www.inductev.com/news/second-mouse-principal-ed-lynch-bell-joins-inductev-advisory-board [3] https://www.inductev.com/news/inductev-announces-wireless-charging-for-electric-taxis-in-gothenburg-sweden [4] https://www.inductev.com/news/gothenburg-announces-strategic-electrification-plan [5] https://www.inductev.com/news/inductev-announces-wireless-charging-for-electric-taxis-in-gothenburg-sweden [6] https://www.inductev.com/news/inductev-announces-wireless-charging-for-electric-taxis-in-gothenburg-sweden [7] https://www.statista.com/statistics/282028/ranking-of-countries-by-innovation-index/
- The wireless charging system for electric taxis, implemented in Gothenburg, Sweden, is part of the city's automotive industry and a significant step towards sustainable living.
- The technology, developed by InductEV, delivers power without cables and supports charging-as-a-service in the home-and-garden sector, making charging more convenient for urban lifestyles.
- The system's success has led to its expansion to include electric taxis, last-mile delivery, and other vehicles, as part of Gothenburg's goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030.
- The incorporation of technology in sustainable living is not limited to Gothenburg; Sweden ranks second for innovation globally according to the World Intellectual Property Organisation.
- Electric vehicles, powered by sustainable energy tech and mobility solutions like InductEV's wireless charging, may form the foundation for future advancements in the transportation industry, particularly in the development of autonomous vehicles.
