Volvo Wireless-Charging Taxis are Pioneering the Future of Urban Mobility
Gothenburg, Sweden, has become a beacon of sustainable innovation, hosting a revolutionary step in electric vehicle (EV) charging technology.
Volvo Cars, in collaboration with InductEV, has unveiled a successful pilot programme featuring wireless-charging electric taxis. This ground-breaking initiative is now celebrated at the World of Volvo, a cutting-edge experience centre that showcases the automaker’s legacy and forward-thinking innovations.
Over the past two years, 20 electric Volvo XC40 taxis equipped with InductEV’s inductive charging technology have logged impressive milestones. These vehicles not only circled the globe metaphorically—85 times, to be precise—but also achieved 7,000 wireless charging events and transferred a staggering 100MWh of inductive power.
The Inductive Charging Advantage
Wireless, hands-free charging isn’t just a fancy gimmick—it’s a game-changer, especially for the future of autonomous fleets. InductEV’s in-ground, on-route charging pads have redefined convenience for drivers while solving long-standing challenges in EV infrastructure.
According to InductEV CEO John Rizzo: “Volvo Cars and its hometown city of Gothenburg have been tremendous partners in putting our inductive charging technology to the test. We are glad it lived up to their expectations and honoured to have it showcased at World of Volvo.”
The programme’s results are as noteworthy as its ambition. Highlights include:
- 100% uptime on charging stations, ensuring reliability.
- Uncomplicated usability, eliminating the need for apps, tags, or credit cards.
- Unwavering performance, even in extreme weather conditions, from snow to sweltering heat.
This innovative approach represents a significant leap forward, particularly for autonomous fleets, which demand seamless, hands-free solutions for recharging.
A Star Attraction at World of Volvo
The newly opened World of Volvo, a sprawling 237,000-square-foot facility in Gothenburg, has chosen this wireless-charging project as a key exhibit. The centre is a collaborative effort between Volvo Cars and Volvo Group, aiming to inspire visitors with its blend of heritage and cutting-edge innovation.
Described as “a meeting place in constant motion filled with innovative, inspiring, and entertaining experiences,” World of Volvo offers a glimpse into the past, present, and future of the Volvo brand. Visitors can explore a 5,000 m² exhibition featuring iconic vehicles and visionary advancements, including the wireless-charging taxi fleet.
Driving Innovation Worldwide
InductEV, headquartered in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, is the undisputed leader in wireless EV charging technology. With 105 patents and another 118 in the works, the company is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Their proprietary on-route wireless solutions are already transforming EV fleets across North America and Europe. The company’s Long Beach, California, hub serves as one of the world’s premier R&D centres for wireless vehicle charging.
InductEV’s vision isn’t confined to taxis or passenger vehicles. Their technology is being adapted for commercial fleets, opening up possibilities for widespread adoption in logistics, public transport, and autonomous vehicle networks. By leveraging AI-powered energy management, they ensure not just efficient charging but also smart grid compatibility, reducing strain on energy resources.
The Gothenburg Green City Zone
This initiative is part of the Gothenburg Green City Zone, a pioneering effort to create an emission-free urban transport system. The city aims to serve as a global model for sustainable mobility, and projects like Volvo’s wireless-charging taxis are paving the way.
Beyond the technical achievements, the programme has proven the feasibility of integrating wireless charging into real-world operations. Taxi drivers praised the ease of use, describing it as a hassle-free experience that seamlessly fits into their routine.
Future Implications for EV Infrastructure
The success of Volvo’s wireless-charging fleet underscores the potential of inductive technology to address major hurdles in EV adoption. While traditional plug-in charging stations require significant driver interaction and are often subject to wear and tear, wireless systems offer a robust alternative.
Moreover, this technology aligns with the growing demand for autonomous vehicle fleets. With no human intervention needed, these systems can autonomously recharge vehicles, enabling continuous operation without downtime.
A Bright Future Beckons
The collaboration between Volvo and InductEV marks a pivotal moment in the journey towards a greener, smarter transportation ecosystem. As the World of Volvo exhibit showcases the potential of wireless charging, it also highlights a broader vision: a future where sustainability and innovation go hand in hand.
For cities like Gothenburg, this project isn’t just a milestone—it’s a launchpad for global change. And as Volvo continues to push boundaries, the possibilities for transforming urban mobility seem endless.
