With its autonomous driving technology, Google is trying to make cars safer and eliminate traffic fatalities. Google’s self-driving cars are expected to have a great contribution to improving traffic safety, but the tech giant is not stopping there.
Now, Google wants to make cars more convenient to own, as well. The Silicon Valley company is reportedly working on a technology that would allow its driverless vehicles to be charged wirelessly, which is much more practical and effective charging method than traditional wired charging.
Two Wireless Charging Systems Tested
According to a report by IEEE Spectrum, Google has applied for a permission with the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to install two wireless charging systems at two separate locations. One of the systems is designed by Hevo Power, and the other has been supplied by Momentum Dynamics.
Hevo Power’s system has been installed at Google’s global headquarters in Mountain View, California, whereas Momentum Dynamics’ systems are now being tested at the Castle Commerce Center, the former U.S. Air Force base in Atwater, California, IEEE reports.
Both Hevo Power and Momentum Dynamics are relatively young companies that offer innovative wireless charging solutions and already operate similar systems in several cities across the U.S.
Resonant Magnetic Induction
The systems that Google is testing are based on resonant magnetic induction technology, which involves charging plates under a road surface transmitting power via an electromagnetic field to a receiver attached to a car’s undercarriage.
For an electric car’s battery to be charged through this method, the car just needs to be parked over a charging pad, and the system will start transmitting electricity without having to be physically connected to the vehicle. This means that no one has to get out of the vehicle and plug a cable into a charging station, saving car owners a lot of time and hassle.
What’s more, this technology could be used to embed a series of wireless charging pads in a road and allow cars to recharge on the go, without stopping or slowing down, which could help make long-distance EV travel a reality.
Perfect Solution for Driverless Cars
Inductive charging seems like a great way for making driverless cars an even more convenient alternative to conventional cars. In addition to being able to drive themselves, autonomous cars could be able to recharge on their own, as well, thanks to wireless charging, since it allows cars to be charged without human input. This will help enhance mobility for the elderly, children, and people with disabilities, even further.