Indiana and Purdue University to Install Wireless Charging System for Electric Vehicles on Highways, a First in the U.S.
Indiana and Purdue University are pioneering the installation of a wireless charging system for electric vehicles (EVs) on highways, marking a significant advancement in the EV charging infrastructure in the United States. This article delves into the collaborative effort between Indiana's Department of Transportation (INDOT), Purdue University, and Cummins Inc. to implement this innovative technology and its potential to shape the future of EV charging.
In a groundbreaking initiative, Indiana's Department of Transportation, in collaboration with Purdue University and Cummins Inc., is set to deploy a wireless charging system along a stretch of highway in Tippecanoe County. This project, poised to redefine the landscape of EV charging, aims to facilitate charging for electric vehicles while they are in motion, a first-of-its-kind endeavor in the U.S.
The initial phase of the project will span approximately a quarter-mile along U.S. Route 52/231, between Lindberg Road and Cumberland Avenue. While further details are awaited, the endeavor is expected to commence construction this spring, with completion slated for next summer. The project involves the installation of coil circuits and electronic components, including inverters and transmitters, necessitating the removal of existing pavement.
The wireless charging system holds immense potential to address the primary drawback of EVs—range anxiety—by enabling continuous charging on highways. Beyond enhancing the driving experience for EV owners, this initiative aims to deepen understanding of high-power transmission at highway speeds and vehicle integration capabilities. Purdue University has described this research as pivotal in defining the future of EV charging.
As construction commences on this pioneering project, Indiana's foray into wireless EV charging signifies a significant milestone in the evolution of transportation infrastructure. With the potential to revolutionize EV charging dynamics, this initiative underscores the state's commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability in the automotive sector.
