TDK Brings Wireless Charging To Electric Cars
TDK has developed a wireless charging prototype system for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, which will allow for charging a parked car without using a cable or plug. TDK also says the system can even be placed on roads to provide charging while on the go.
For the development of the new device, TDK used the patents and technology know-how it had acquired last Arpil from U.S.-based engineering company WiTricity. TDK has also been a pioneer in magnetic coil technologies.
The charging system can operate even when the sending and receiving coils are more than 10cm apart.
Samsple sof th esystem are expected to be ready to ship to car makers in the first half of 2015.
The company has also been testing its charging-while-driving technology on a 30-meter circular test course, with sending coils placed underneath the road's surface at specific intervals. Trials have confirmed that a test vehicle can travel 120km at a speed of 5kph.
Toyota and Nissan are already conducting tests to prepare for implementation of wireless charging technology.