The Michigan Department of Transportation and Electreon recently signed a five-year agreement to develop and work toward implementing a scalable wireless public in-road charging network for electric vehicles – allowing EVs to recharge their batteries while in motion or stationary on the road surface.
[Above image via Electreon]
Under the agreement, Michigan DOT and Electreon will work collaboratively to develop best practices for a wireless electric road system or ERS implementation and management and add strategic partners.
They also agreed to analyze the benefits associated with ERS pertaining to pressure on the grid and cost associated with large-scale electrification of the transportation sector. Michigan DOT also plans to integrate findings from this work into Michigan’s 2045 electrification strategy, which includes exploring possible business models for ERS to serve as a revenue stream for the state and as an attractive alternative for fleet operators.
This research also expects to quantify emission reduction amounts, especially in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods, while also engaging public transit agencies to ensure they can access wireless ERS infrastructure for buses and other vehicles.
“This agreement helps solidify Michigan as the U.S. leader in developing and implementing a wireless in-road charging network,” noted Michigan DOT Director Paul Ajegba in a statement.
“We now can work toward better policy and regulatory framework that provides a welcoming environment for this unique technology,” he added. “Ultimately, the research and work conducted on this project will help lead to large-scale deployment across Michigan and the U.S.”
“The potential for electrifying roads and cities is practically endless and working together with Michigan DOT we are reshaping the future of transportation,” stressed Oren Ezer, CEO and co-founder of Electreon.
“We’re excited to enter into this agreement to create a blueprint for scaling wireless charging for all EVs across Michigan and the U.S. and look forward to aligning with additional DOTs in the future,” he said.
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