In Sweden, a government transport agency is working on developing electrified roads that can charge vehicles while they’re in motion. This system primarily focuses on charging roads for trucks and commercial vehicles, as they require larger battery packs for a commercially viable range. However, passenger cars will also benefit from this network. The researchers estimate that only a quarter of the country’s roads would need to be electrified for the system to be effective, with highways and major traffic routes being the priority.
A test route has already been chosen for the first section of electrified road, and construction is set to begin by 2025. The method of charging is still being debated, with one proposal involving overhead cables, similar to those used for buses and trams in some European cities. However, this system would not be suitable for passenger EVs. Another option is using a charging rail similar to those found in certain metro systems, while the third system relies on inductive charging to wirelessly charge cars.
The inductive charging system is expected to benefit everyday car drivers the most. Government data suggests that this system could reduce car battery sizes by up to 70% in urban areas. However, at the moment, this technology is still in the development stage.
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