The tuner ABT, which also works on the development of charging solutions for electric cars, unveils its first induction charger. The latter will initially only be compatible with the Volkswagen ID.4, but other models will also be affected a little later.
Recharging your electric car is now increasingly simple thanks to the network of terminals which continues to develop in France and around the world. This eliminates the need for a large battery and a long range, thus reducing the price of vehicles. In short, a virtuous circle. However, while public terminals are obviously very important, we must not forget home charging.
A new alternative
Indeed, according to a recent report published by Enedis, 85% of electric car owners plug in at home. It is therefore important for charging station providers to develop their home solutions. And it is an unexpected actor who is today talking about him in order to present his new creation. This is ABT, rather known as a preparer specializing in German cars.
The latter recently launched its e-Line division dedicated to electric cars in order to diversify its activities. Especially since it already collaborates with Cupra in Formula E and Extreme E. This is how the German company reveals a unique induction charging systemdeveloped in partnership with WiTricity.
For now, the press release published on the company’s website does not give any technical details. He just announces that charging will be as fast as with a conventional cable, without giving more precise figures. On the other hand, its use will be limited to its beginnings. Indeed, only the Volkswagen ID.4 will be compatible with this charger at first. Which may seem surprising, as the electric SUV shares its underside and its engines with other models like the ID.5.
However, this exclusivity should not last forever. Indeed, ABT announces that other models may also use this device a bit later. The company cites the Audi e-tron GT, the Porsche Taycan and the Volkswagen ID in particular. buzz. She explains that these vehicles ” fit perfectly with the brand“.
A more convenient system
The firm explains that this solution is much more practical than conventional charging with a cable. She takes as an example the case where the driver has his arms full and he cannot put down his children or his belongings to plug in his vehicle. So just park it on the plate placed on the ground for charging to begin.
However, ABT does not say whether it will be possible to configure it in order to favor off-peak hours, for example. But if this device is practical, it also has some disadvantages all the same. Indeed, its installation should be more expensive than a simple terminal, while the yield would still be lower to a system with a cable. According to the company, its induction device will be ready for 2024.
But be careful, however, this system should not be compatible with cars without making modifications. Indeed, the preparer provides a priori personalized versions of the car to provide them with this wireless charging.
Other manufacturers are also interested in this technology, such as Tesla. The firm showed an image advertising an inductive charging system during its Investor Day, although no official information was revealed about it. Already in 2018, BMW also launched its wireless charging for its 530th iPerformance, which promised an excellent yield of around 85% with a full charge in 3h30.
More recently, Volvo tested a similar system with its electric XC40 near its headquarters in Gothenburg, Sweden. The London EV Company Limited (LEVC) has partnered with Nissan to experiment with this solution on electric taxis. Finally, researchers from the University of Chalmers, also in Sweden, have developed a wireless charge capable of delivering up to 500 kW.
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