Highway to E-roads
Sweden has made history by building the world’s first permanent electrified road for electric vehicles (EVs) to charge while driving. The inductive charging system uses a “smart” electric rail that is embedded in the road surface; a movable arm attached to the underside of a vehicle transfers energy from two tracks in the road. The design is similar to a Scalextric track, although the arm automatically disengages when the vehicle overtakes.. Approximately 2 km of electric rail embedded in a public road near Stockholm.
The Advantages of an Electrified Road
The electrified road provides a host of advantages that could revolutionize the way we travel. Here are a few:
Greater Range and Convenience
EVs have limited range and require frequent charging. An electrified road could solve this issue by charging EVs as they drive, eliminating the need for frequent stops.
Cost-Effective
The electrified road could be cost-effective in the long run, as the cost of constructing and maintaining the road would be offset by the savings from reduced battery size and charging infrastructure.
Environmental Benefits
Electrified roads can reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality by encouraging the adoption of EVs, which produce fewer emissions than traditional gas-powered cars.
Increased Safety
An electrified road could improve road safety by reducing the number of vehicles on the road, as EVs could travel longer distances without needing to stop and recharge.
Challenges to Overcome
While the electrified road technology holds great promise, there are challenges to overcome before it becomes a reality. These include:
High Construction Costs
The cost of building an electrified road is high, and there are concerns about the practicality of electrifying all roads.
Compatibility Issues
There are currently no standards for the design of electrified roads, which could lead to compatibility issues with different EV models.
Maintenance
The electrified road system requires regular maintenance, which could add to the overall cost.
Sweden’s electrified road is a game-changer in the world of EVs. It has the potential to change the way we travel, making EVs more convenient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. While there are challenges to overcome, the benefits of an electrified road are too great to ignore. It’s exciting to see how this technology will evolve and transform the future of transportation.
