General Motors and wireless power vendor WiTricity are collaborating to test an advanced park-and-charge wireless system for electric vehicles (EVs).
The prototype platform would work across all vehicle models. The test focuses on wireless charging at 7.7 and 11 kW charge rates, capable of charging both battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs).
Park-and-charge technology is accomplished via a floor mat that charges a vehicle automatically after a car is positioned on top. Source: WiTricity GM says it is trying to improve EV charging by making it easier and more convenient for drivers, and the company will look to integrate the technology into its vehicles. The system works as follows: a driver pulls into his or her garage and automatically receives power from a source below the vehicle. The system is deployed as a floor mat in a consumer’s garage and can be installed under pavement to provide wireless charging in public and commercial parking lots.
“Wireless charging is a technology that our customers have told us they are interested in,” says Pamela Fletcher, GM Executive Chief Engineer of Electrified Vehicles. “By testing the WiTricity prototype system, we can ensure that wireless charging systems will comply with proposed industry standards, which benefits the entire industry and consumers.”
