In a groundbreaking achievement, a Porsche Taycan has been wirelessly charged with 270 kW, setting a new world record for inductive charging. This technological milestone was reached by scientists at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), the largest government research institution in the United States. This innovation not only paves the way for the future of electric vehicles but also marks a significant step forward in the evolution of wireless energy transfer.
By John Adams
The Milestone in Inductive Charging
The Porsche Taycan, a first-generation model, was equipped with a specially developed charging device to achieve this feat. Within just ten minutes, the battery charge was increased by 50%, thanks to the inductive charging system. The smallest battery in this Taycan model has a capacity of 71 kWh, providing a range of 268 miles according to the WLTP testing standard. Remarkably, the wireless charging reached the same maximum power of 270 kW as a traditional DC fast-charging cable, showcasing the system’s efficiency and potential.
Collaboration and Future Potential
Although Porsche was not directly involved in this project, the research was conducted in collaboration with the Volkswagen Group, which plans to continue working with ORNL to achieve even greater inductive charging capabilities. Volkswagen executives visited the ORNL facility in Tennessee in April to review the project’s progress. While Porsche has expressed interest in these developments, their current focus remains on AC inductive charging solutions, particularly for convenient home charging systems.
Advances in Wireless Charging Technology
The ORNL team developed a powerful electromagnetic coil, measuring approximately 19 inches in diameter, to achieve this level of charging. The design utilizes rotating magnetic fields, which are generated by the coil’s phase windings, to transfer the high levels of power needed. The distance between the transmission unit on the ground and the receiver on the vehicle is about 4.7 inches, allowing for an eight to tenfold increase in power compared to existing systems. This lightweight, high-performance coil represents a significant leap in wireless charging technology.
The Road Ahead for Inductive Charging
The research conducted by ORNL is not only a technical achievement, but also a glimpse into the future of electric vehicle charging. With the potential for even higher inductive charging capabilities, the industry could see a shift towards more efficient and convenient charging solutions. However, the timeline for these technologies to become commercially available remains uncertain, as further testing and refinement are necessary. The success of this project demonstrates the feasibility of wireless charging for electric vehicles, setting the stage for future advancements.
The Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s achievement with the Porsche Taycan showcases the potential of inductive charging as a viable alternative to traditional methods. As the technology continues to evolve, it could revolutionize how electric vehicles are powered, offering greater convenience and efficiency for consumers.
Based on content from www.autobild.de and own research.