Clever tech allows wireless in-car charging of mobile gadgets and will launch in 2012

General Motors has revealed a new wireless charging mat to include on many of its cars from 2012.

The US manufacturer is working in conjunction with Powermat, a company specialising in wireless charging technology, to produce a new product that will allow drivers to charge electronic devices such as iPods and mobile phones wirelessly.

The first car to receive this technology will be the Chevrolet Volt, with a further rollout expected on more models soon after.

Read Autocar's Chevrolet Volt first drive

Wireless charging works by utilising electromagnetic fields to transfer energy from the mat into the battery of the electrical device being charged.

Micky Bly, GM’s lead electronics executive said: “Imagine a mat or shelf where you could put your iPhone, your Android or other personal device and charge it automatically while you commute to work, run errands or as you're driving on a family vacation.”

See all the latest Chevrolet Volt reviews, news and video

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