Roads and Transport Authority has launched the test-run of a wireless electric charging grid in Dubai Silicon Oasis
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched the test-run of a wireless electric charging grid in Dubai Silicon Oasis.
The technology charges electric vehicles and buses while they are in motion. The initial phase involves laying an embedded power-charging grid under a 60-metre road strip.
Using the Shaped Magnetic Field In Resonance (SMFIR) technology, the step is part of RTA’s efforts to run green and sustainable transit means and support Dubai’s smart government drive, a statement said.
“This project is one of RTA’s initiatives to promote the use of environmentally-friendly vehicles and sustainable transport means,” said Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer, director-general and chairman of the RTA.
“RTA has tested an electric vehicle and a bus on this path, and results proved a highly efficient wireless charging system comparable with the cable charging. Moreover, the electromagnetic level on board was within the accepted global range," he added.
He said the technology enables seamless operation of an electric vehicle without having to stop at charging stations.
Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, managing director and CEO of DEWA, said: “This initiative will help increase the number of electric vehicles in Dubai, which is already witnessing a steady increase, especially with the Dubai Government’s interest in green mobility initiatives."
He added that DEWA has also installed over 240 charging stations for electric vehicles across Dubai, with plans to increase the number to 300 by the end of 2020. DEWA has also extended the free charging period for electric vehicle until the end of 2021.