Wireless EV charging: Addressing common myths
By WiTricity CMO Amy Barzdukas
It’s great to see the leadership that Korean automakers and Chinese bus manufacturers are taking in adopting new charging modalities for electric vehicles. Wireless charging is the future. However, there are still some myths about wireless charging. We’re going to address some of those today. You can either read about them below or watch this fun, animated video:
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Common wireless EV charging myths
Here are some common myths about wireless charging for EVs:
Myth #1: Wireless EV charging isn’t real yet
As we’re seeing with the reports on Hyundai getting ready to release vehicles that support wireless charging – clearly that’s not the case. We’ve also been cheering on news this week about McLaren and the new Speedtail, and see public buses taking advantage. It’s not just an experiment, it’s here. And there are compelling use cases for both personal and commercial applications.
Myth #2: Wireless charging takes too long
Nope. The wireless charging standard built on WiTricity’s patented solution charges just as quickly as a Level 2 plug-in charger. And since you don’t worry about remembering to plug it in – you’d just park and go – it also adds peace of mind.
Myth #3: Plug-in charging is 100% efficient but wireless car charging isn’t
Remember, we’re dealing with electricity here, and it needs to be respected. Both wireless and plug-in charges have functional blocks to protect your home and vehicle, and those blocks prevent any charging from being 100% efficient. Most Level 2 chargers are between 89-94% efficient, and so is the wireless charging built on WiTricity’s technology.
Myth #4: Is plugging in an EV car that much of a hassle?
It’s human nature to find easier, simpler solutions to things that may seem at the time to be “good enough.” (Indoor plumbing anyone?) But a simpler solution with no moving parts means a more reliable charge: no dealing with an armful of squirming toddler while trying to wrangle the cord, nothing to fumble with in inclement weather, nothing to break or get stolen. In commercial applications – I’m talking to my #fleet friends – those charging cords just get bigger, more unwieldy, and more expensive, where they become tripping hazards to boot.
Myth #5: It’s too much trouble to get the wireless charging alignment right
Wireless charging for EVs isn’t like the inductive charging you might use for your toothbrush or phone, where the coils must align perfectly to get a charge. The standard based on WiTricity’s design uses magnetic resonance, which is pretty forgiving. So you just drive up, park, and walk away.
I can’t wait to see more automakers worldwide start to adopt wireless charging! Want to learn more? Sign up for the WiTricity newsletter.
Want to learn more about wireless EV charging? Here are two resources: