Back in 2010, Virginia-based Evatran Group teased with the promise of a wireless charging system for electric vehicles in the United States. Three years later, thanks to a partnering arrangement with Bosch’ Automotive Solutions group, that vision is now a reality.
The Plugless Level 2 Electric Vehicle Charging System is the first wireless charging system for EVs to be made commercially available in the US. Similar to pad-based mobile phone charging units like the Wildcharge and Powermat, this system uses electro-magnetic induction to charge the vehicle through a specially developed parking pad.
Installed by Bosch, this floor mounted parking pad measures 22 in wide x 18 in long x 2.5 in deep (56 x 46 x 6 cm) and works in combination with a special vehicle adapter. Charging starts as soon as the driver maneuvers their chosen EV over the pad and the system identifies the vehicle adapter. To ensure proper alignment, a wall-mounted panel that is hardwired to a dedicated 240V 30 Amp supply provides guidance and diagnostic details as well as real-time charging status of the vehicle.
Details for charging times are unavailable but there will be some energy loss during transfer, with Bosch quoting a 3.6 kW input and 3.3 kW power output for the system. Cost of the system ranges from US$2,998 to $3,098 depending on the vehicle. This doesn't include installation of the pad, which will be carried out by a Bosch-certified electrician, or the on-vehicle components, which are carried out at Bosch Car Service centers.
Currently, the website shows the induction system is compatible with both Nissan’s Leaf and the Chevy Volt.
Source: Bosch
Back in 2010, Virginia-based Evatran Group teased with the promise of a wireless charging system for electric vehicles in the United States. Three years later, thanks to a partnering arrangement with Bosch’ Automotive Solutions group, that vision is now a reality.
The Plugless Level 2 Electric Vehicle Charging System is the first wireless charging system for EVs to be made commercially available in the US. Similar to pad-based mobile phone charging units like the Wildcharge and Powermat, this system uses electro-magnetic induction to charge the vehicle through a specially developed parking pad.
Installed by Bosch, this floor mounted parking pad measures 22 in wide x 18 in long x 2.5 in deep (56 x 46 x 6 cm) and works in combination with a special vehicle adapter. Charging starts as soon as the driver maneuvers their chosen EV over the pad and the system identifies the vehicle adapter. To ensure proper alignment, a wall-mounted panel that is hardwired to a dedicated 240V 30 Amp supply provides guidance and diagnostic details as well as real-time charging status of the vehicle.
Details for charging times are unavailable but there will be some energy loss during transfer, with Bosch quoting a 3.6 kW input and 3.3 kW power output for the system. Cost of the system ranges from US$2,998 to $3,098 depending on the vehicle. This doesn't include installation of the pad, which will be carried out by a Bosch-certified electrician, or the on-vehicle components, which are carried out at Bosch Car Service centers.
Currently, the website shows the induction system is compatible with both Nissan’s Leaf and the Chevy Volt.
Source: Bosch
It's the cost of doing business, and the cost of inductive charging is a 10% decrease in efficiency for the convenience of never forgetting to recharge overnight. As long as the consumer is aware, then they individually make the personal decision to buy or not to buy this system.
I am absent minded and might forget to plug or unplug.
I could see this as useful in a mall parking lot.