UK firm begins public trial of wireless EV chargers

A UK-based firm has begun a 12-month trial for an induction pad that's able to charge EVs wirelessly, using a fleet of modified Renault Zoes. 

EV charging specialist Char.gy has developed the charging pad technology in hope that it will provide improved access to chargers for those without off-street access, as well as highlighting the importance of car sharing. 

“This new charging solution will mean that in the near future, those without access to private charging via garages, driveways or other off-street parking options will be able to charge their vehicles efficiently and cable-free,” the firm said. 

“This infrastructure means no charging cable - potentially hazardous for other road or pavement users – and no lamp-post charging and is only activated when an EV parks over it.” 

The company says the technology, which works through an electrical induction charging pad installed into the ground, has been tested extensively at Millbrook Proving Ground.

The pads have been developed by the University of Warwick and wireless power specialist IPT Technology, utilising similar technology currently in use by the #7 bus route in Milton Keynes. 

The study will make use of 10 Zoes supplied by car-sharing firm Hiyacar, each equipped with an aftermarket induction charging kit.

The general public can rent one of the cars for £1 per hour or £5 per day (plus additional insurance costs), and its conventional charging cable can still be used.

The first trial is currently taking place in Marlow in Buckinghamshire, where a pad has been implemented into a dedicated parking space in the Liston Road car park. 

A further nine trial locations are expected to follow, spread around Buckinghamshire.

The Open University, also based in Milton Keynes, will gather research based on driver feedback about the project to gauge its success.