Stellantis tests electric charging by induction on a Fiat 500e

Stellantis (via its subsidiary Fiat) tested for several months, on the Italian circuit Arena del Futuro in Chiari, the Dynamic Wireless Power Transfer (DWPT) system. This dynamic wireless energy transfer relies on coils placed under the asphalt. These transmit energy directly to cars, trucks or buses. Electricity from the infrastructure arrives directly at the electric motor via a receiver. This device would make it possible to extend the autonomy of the vehicle by conserving the charge of the battery.

According to Fiat, this technology will extend the range of electric cars, while reducing power losses in the energy distribution process. The use of DWPT relies on an aluminum cable infrastructure that has no exposed cables, allowing pedestrians to walk the roadway safely.

To carry out this test, Stellantis used a Fiat 500e specially prepared to drive on the motorway at high speed and without consuming the energy stored in its battery. For the manufacturer, the results of this test are conclusive since the energy flow passing from the asphalt to the car was comparable to that provided by a fast charging station, the car driving at high speed without its battery discharging.

Anne-Lise Richard, head of the Global e-Mobility Business Unit at Stellantis, commented on the project: “We have proven that inductive charging technology can power our electrified future. These joint projects are exciting milestones as we work to achieve longer battery life, lower range anxiety, greater power efficiency, smaller battery size, exceptional performance, and lower weight and lower cost of use.“

Fiat is not the only Stellantis brand to want to use this technology, as Maserati has announced its intention to develop it with the next Grecale Folgore. The technology could also be made available for commercial development, with Fiat claiming its charging potential for ports, airports and car parks. So to be continued…