Scientists Charge EV Wirelessly with 100kW Charger, Achieving 50% Battery in 20 Minutes

Scientists at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) have accomplished a remarkable feat: wirelessly charging an EV with a 100 kW charger, achieving a 50% battery charge in just 20 minutes.

This groundbreaking achievement represents the highest power density achieved for a wireless charger for EVs, marking a significant milestone in the quest for more efficient and convenient EV charging solutions.

A Closer Look at the Tech

The ORNL researchers utilized polyphase electromagnetic coupling coils with rotating magnetic fields to achieve this remarkable charging capability.

The lightweight and small design of the polyphase electromagnetic coupling coil enables the highest power density to be achieved with the smallest coil available.

Unlike conventional coil technology, which typically offers lower power densities, the innovative design of these coils allows for power densities 8-10 times higher, enabling rapid charging while maintaining high efficiency.

Omer Onar, a researcher at ORNL involved in the project, expressed excitement about the potential implications of this breakthrough. "Our technology reaches power densities 8-10 times higher than conventional coil technology and can increase battery charge state by 50% in under 20 minutes," Onar stated.

This achievement opens the door to fast and efficient wireless charging for passenger EVs, revolutionizing the EV charging experience.

Breakthrough EV Wireless Charging Technology

The wireless charging process draws energy from the grid into high-frequency alternating current (AC), generating a magnetic field that transfers power across an air gap to a secondary field on the vehicle.

This secondary field then converts the power to direct current (DC) stored in the vehicle's battery. This innovative charging method eliminates the need for cumbersome cables and plugs, offering EV owners a seamless and hassle-free charging experience.

ORNL researchers have previously achieved milestones in wireless charging technology, including a 20 kW charger in 2016 and a 120 kW charger in 2018. However, the latest achievement, the 100 kW charger, represents a significant advancement in vehicle integration and charging efficiency.

What This Technology Holds

The implications of this breakthrough extend beyond mere convenience. As the adoption of EVs continues to rise globally, the need for fast and efficient charging infrastructure becomes increasingly crucial.

The ability to charge an EV wirelessly with high-power density chargers not only enhances the convenience for EV owners but also contributes to the widespread adoption of EVs by addressing concerns about range anxiety and charging times.

Furthermore, wireless charging technology has potential applications beyond personal EVs. Industries such as public transportation and logistics could greatly benefit from its convenience and efficiency, paving the way for cleaner and more sustainable transportation solutions.

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