Mitsubishi is teaming with WiTricity and IHI to research and develop easily deployable electric-vehicle wireless-charging systems readily compatible with electric grids.
The auto maker says the partnership of three major players in wireless charging, electric infrastructure and EVs will accelerate the popularization of wireless EV charging systems by developing technology that is usable “right out of the box” for individuals, governments and companies.
Mitsubishi looking to replace EV plug-in charging with wireless system.
The aim is to make EVs more convenient for owners by speeding the availability of wireless charging at locations ranging from homes to shopping-center parking lots, Mitsubishi says in a statement released in Tokyo.
Wireless-charging systems allow transfer of energy from a source placed on or under the ground to a vehicle equipped with an energy-capture device.
Charging occurs automatically when the vehicle is parked, with no physical contact between the vehicle and the charging source.
WiTricity already has developed and brought to market its patented magnetic-resonance wireless-charging system.
This transfers energy farther and more effectively compared with conventional systems such as electromagnetic induction and microwave transmission, pushing the possibilities of wireless charging by being able to deliver up to 3.3 kW of charging power over an 8-in. (20-cm) distance at an efficiency rate of more than 90%.
Systems based on WiTricity technology are smaller and lighter than conventional systems and operate with no moving parts.
WiTricity CEO Eric Giler says EVs need to be user-friendly and wireless charging is an important feature that greatly improves the consumer’s experience.
IHI President and CEO Kazuaki Kama says his company joined the partnership because it aims to become a leading worldwide supplier of wireless-charging stations.
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