The high-power wireless charging systems from Momentum Dynamics are going into a trial program with Jaguar I-PACE electric taxis in Oslo, Norway.
The program will also include Nordic taxi operator Cabonline (NorgesTaxi AS) and Fortum Recharge, which is the largest provider of EV charging points in Norway.
The program is being called ElectriCity.
Multiple charging plates rated at 50-75 kilowatts each, are installed in the ground in series at pick-up-drop-off points. This allows each equipped taxi to automatically charge while queuing for the next fare.
The system, which uses no cables and is situated below ground, requires no physical connection between charger and vehicle, engages automatically and provides on average 6-8 minutes of energy per each charge up to 50kW.
Assuming a decent balance between driving and waiting for passengers (and a change of drivers once or twice), a vehicle could be in operation 24/7. In a city like London with an Ultra Low Emissions Zone or a requirement that taxis be electric, this is extra valuable.
The wireless system was integrated by Momentum and Jaguar Land Rover engineers into the I-PACE in a matter of weeks, even with the difficulties of COVID-19.
This project perfectly outlines the automatic electric taxi charging model for any city looking to implement zero emission transportation. Though, even simple economics should do the job to push this solution forward.
Reference- Stockhouse PR, Momentum Dynamics website, Electrek, Clean Technica, Futurism