U.K. to Test Wireless Recharging for EVs, Hybrids

Off-road trials of the technology needed to recharge batteries in electric and hybrid vehicles as they travel on major U.K. roads are to take place later this year.

Highways England, the government agency responsible for road-infrastructure maintenance, says the trials will test how the technology would work safely and effectively to allow drivers of ultra-low-emissions vehicles to travel long distances without needing to stop and charge the car’s battery.

The trials follow the completion of a feasibility study commissioned by Highways England into “dynamic wireless-power transfer” technologies.

Transport Minister Andrew Jones says the potential to recharge low-emissions vehicles on the move offers exciting possibilities.

“The government is already committing £500 million ($784.1 million) over the next five years to keep Britain at the forefront of this technology, which will help boost jobs and growth in the sector,” Jones says in a statement. “We continue to explore options on how to improve journeys and make low-emission vehicles accessible to families and businesses.”

Chief Highways Engineer Mike Wilson says the off-road trials of wireless power technology will help create a more sustainable road network for England and open up new opportunities for businesses that transport goods across the country.

The trials, expected to begin later this year, involve fitting vehicles with wireless technology and testing equipment installed underneath the road to replicate highway conditions.

Testing will be conducted for about 18 months and, subject to the results, could be followed by on-road trials.

In tandem with investigating the potential to install technology to wirelessly power ULEVs, Highways England is working on a longer-term program to install plug-in charging points every 20 miles (32 km) on the country’s motorway network.