In Hybrid and Electrical Mechanic Training? What to Know About Plugless EVs
One of the biggest factors working against the wholesale uptake of Electric Vehicles in Canada is the shortage of efficient charging infrastructure. Beyond that, staying tethered to charging stations typically cost precious hours of productivity, which is a major reason why commercial fleet operators and other commercial vehicle drivers do not consider EVs viable. However, all of these concerns will soon be effectively put to bed by plugless EVs and wireless EV charging.
With the potential to make charging more convenient, seamless, and safe, plugless EVs represent a transformative development in the world of electric vehicles. And with the global electric vehicle wireless charging market projected to grow from $18.6 million in 2021 to $221.0 million in 2028 at a CAGR of 42.4%, plugless EVs may soon be experiencing a huge boost in popularity.
Plugless EVs can potentially revolutionize the country’s automotive scene. In this blog, we take an in-depth look at these fascinating vehicles and identify some features of theirs that hybrid and electrical mechanic trainees might find useful.
How Plugless EVs Work
Plugless EVs use a technology called wireless power transfer (WPT) to transmit electricity from a charging pad on the ground to a receiver on the vehicle. The charging pad and the receiver are connected by an electromagnetic field that can transfer energy across a small gap. The charging process is similar to how wireless chargers work for smartphones and other devices.
After hybrid and electrical mechanic training, you may have the opportunity to learn all about the technology behind plugless EVs. It primarily relies on electromagnetic induction. A charging pad, connected to a power source, generates an alternating magnetic field. When the receiver on the vehicle comes into proximity with the charging pad, the magnetic field induces an electric current within the receiver’s coil, thus charging the vehicle’s battery. This wireless charging process is highly efficient and offers a seamless user experience.
Advantages of Plugless EVs
Plugless EVs offer unparalleled convenience as charging simply involves parking the vehicle over a charging pad, eliminating the need for physical cable connections and saving time. This also reduces wear and tear on charging connectors.
The flexibility of plugless EVs allows charging stations to be installed in various locations, expanding the charging infrastructure and making EV adoption more accessible for those without dedicated parking spaces. With high levels of efficiency, wireless charging minimizes energy losses, and automated systems optimize charging patterns based on demand and grid conditions, further improving energy management. Also significantly, eliminating exposed cables and connectors enhances safety, mitigating the risk of electric shock and potential accidents.
Potential Disadvantages of Plugless EVs
Plugless EVs do have their drawbacks as well. One significant concern is the cost of the technology. Compared to plug-in EVs, plugless EVs require more expensive and intricate components, including the charging pad, receiver, and power electronics. These components add weight to the vehicle and can potentially reduce its overall efficiency.
Another challenge is the availability of infrastructure. Dedicated parking spaces with installed charging pads are not yet widely accessible, limiting the widespread adoption of plugless EVs. Further, compatibility with various standards and frequencies of wireless power transfer (WPT) systems may vary across regions or manufacturers, further complicating the infrastructure requirements.
Plugless EVs are still an emerging technology. With that said, there’s more than enough about this particular technology to keep hybrid and electric vehicle mechanics and others in auto careers deeply invested in its progress.
Want to become a hybrid and electric vehicle mechanic?
Contact ATC Surrey for more information.
