WiTricity, a developer of wireless EV charging systems based in the US, has unveiled a new initiative called FastTrack, aimed at enabling automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to seamlessly integrate their ‘Halo’ wireless charging system into vehicles within a short span of three months. This program is specifically designed to accelerate the testing and implementation of wireless charging technology across both current and future electric vehicle platforms.
FastTrack offers automotive OEMs a comprehensive solution for integrating WiTricity’s Halo charging system, encompassing hardware and software components that are fully equipped for testing and evaluation. The Halo system consists of a receiver installed in the vehicle and a charger on the infrastructure side, enabling efficient 11 kW wireless charging.
In a statement, Alex Gruzen, the CEO of WiTricity, emphasized the company’s commitment to assisting OEMs in swiftly adopting the wireless charging technology that is increasingly sought after by consumers. Gruzen highlighted WiTricity’s experience in retrofitting existing vehicles like the Tesla Model 3 and the Ford Mustang Mach-E to support wireless charging, as well as their collaborations with early adopters of factory-installed wireless charging. He further expressed WiTricity’s ability to work closely with OEMs not only in the evaluation phase but also in delivering fully automotive-grade wireless charging solutions from their global supply chain for production programs.
Gruzen substantiated the demand for wireless charging by referring to a recent independent survey conducted by Tidewatch Partners in June 2023. The survey revealed that 80 percent of loyal customers to a premium car brand would consider switching to another premium brand if it offered wireless charging. Recognizing the preferences of consumers and the advantages wireless charging brings to fleets, Gruzen affirmed that EVs equipped with wireless charging are highly favored. It is worth noting that Gruzen had previously expressed similar sentiments, albeit without citing a specific survey, during the preceding year.
WiTricity has previously showcased its retrofit system for the Tesla Model 3 in February 2022. Moreover, the company has collaborated with ABT e-Line in Europe to develop a wireless charging kit for the VW ID.4, set to be available from 2024. Siemens has also been an active participant in WiTricity’s endeavors since the previous year.
