Dubai successfully tests SMFIR wireless charging technology to allow electric vehicles to charge while driving

According to foreign media reports, on February 13, local time, the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced that it had successfully conducted dynamic wireless charging tests on electric vehicles and buses in operation using

(Image source: RTA)

Wireless charging SMFIR technology solves the problem of electric vehicle batteries and charging infrastructure. SMFIR technology allows cars to operate seamlessly without stopping at charging stations. The technology is embedded under the road surface and is invisible, so it will not cause visual pollution to the city. In addition, it will not hinder the movement of people and vehicles like cable chargers on the road.

The trial will help promote the widespread adoption of environmentally friendly vehicles and sustainable transportation among Dubai residents, in line with Dubai’s Integrated Energy Strategy 2030, Dubai Plan 2021 and UAE Vision 2021.

Currently, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has installed more than 240 charging stations for electric vehicles across Dubai, and plans to increase the number of charging stations to 300 by 2020. In addition, DEWA has extended the free charging period for electric vehicles to the end of 2021, but the incentive plan is only for non-commercial users who have registered for the EV Green Charger initiative and only applies to DEWA's public charging stations.

At the same time, RTA will convert 90% of Dubai's luxury cars into environmentally friendly (hybrid vehicles) by 2026, and 50% of Dubai's taxis into hybrid vehicles by 2021. As part of Dubai's taxi fleet, RTA has also trialed Dubai's first hydrogen fuel cell electric taxi.

Advantages and working principle of SMFIR technology

1. SMFIR technology can wirelessly transfer large amounts of energy from the road to the electric vehicle while the electric vehicle is in motion or stationary;

2. The power grid of this technology is buried under the road surface and will not hinder the movement of people and vehicles;

3. The technology limits the need for remote static charging stations, replacing them with charging infrastructure embedded into the road or highway system;

4. Wireless charging SMFIR technology solves the problems of battery and charging infrastructure.