Drivers Are Ready to Embrace Wireless EV Technology, New Survey Finds

In a future where electric vehicles (EVs) may seamlessly charge while cruising down highways, drivers' readiness for such technology is being tested today. A new survey from the University of Auckland reveals that most drivers in New Zealand are enthusiastic about the concept of dynamic wireless charging for EVs.

Drivers in New Zealand Are Ready For Wireless EV Tech

The survey, involving 1,150 current and potential EV drivers, reveals mixed feelings. While there are concerns regarding the safety and costs associated with dynamic wireless charging, the overall sentiment is positive.

Doctoral candidate Ramesh Majhi, senior lecturer Prakash Ranjitkar from the Faculty of Engineering, and senior research fellow Selena Sheng from the Business School designed the survey to gauge public opinion on wireless charging technology.

The survey found that 93% of respondents responded positively to dynamic wireless charging technology and expressed interest in testing it out soon. Participants cited its convenience as the primary advantage, which could significantly improve the current EV charging experience by supplementing traditional stationary charging stations.

According to the survey's findings, sustainability-minded individuals are more likely to support and use dynamic wireless EV charging. Furthermore, urban residents show a greater inclination toward adopting this technology than their rural counterparts.

However, the study also noted that social influences, including peers' choices and behaviors, play a role in drivers' decisions to adopt the technology.

Concerns on Wireless EV Tech

The survey raised concerns about data privacy, electromagnetic radiation, and the costs of adopting and utilizing wireless in-road technology. These issues indicate that despite the enthusiasm for the technology's convenience and sustainability, there are still barriers to its widespread adoption.

Majhi, the primary investigator, pointed out that dynamic wireless charging might not be practical for urban transportation. However, it could be advantageous for intercity travel by reducing the dependency on plug-in charging stations, which often necessitate highway detours.

Sheng emphasized the importance of understanding public perception for developing effective measures and policies to integrate dynamic wireless charging into the transportation network. She noted that the current inadequacies in charging infrastructure challenge the transition to EVs for their environmental benefits.

Overall, the research suggests that while there is a positive outlook on dynamic wireless charging among New Zealand drivers, significant concerns must be addressed to ensure its successful implementation.

"This is where in-road charging lanes will be of benefit, and it's essential for policymakers to know how best to manage the roll-out of this kind of technology in future and to ensure people's concerns are understood, and hopefully alleviated," Sheng said in a statement.

The study's findings were published in the Transportation Research Part F: Traffic Psychology and Behaviour journal.