Electreon is collaborating with TransIsrael, a government agency under the Israeli Ministry of Transport, to introduce wireless charging for electric buses along Haifa’s Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) network. The initiative, which spans a 104-kilometre BRT route, will incorporate both inductive charging stations at terminal stops and dynamic charging during the buses’ journeys.
While only a small segment of the BRT network will feature inductive charging loopsâcovering just 1.6 km of the routeâthe majority of the charging will occur at stationary systems located at the terminal stops. The dynamic charging system will provide supplementary power during the buses’ travel, aiming to extend the operational range and reduce the need for mid-day vehicle swaps, a current challenge for the cityâs electric bus fleet.
Electreon will supply the combination of its wireless dynamic charging infrastructure and stationary systems to support the extended range of the buses. The project is designed to alleviate the reliance on overnight depot charging, offering an alternative solution for enhancing operating times. The trial will run for three years, with an option for a 24-month extension, and includes a budget of around $4.2 million for installation, operation, and maintenance. The project will also assess the systemâs impact on energy management, bus operating times, and the cost-effectiveness of the technology compared to other rapid charging options.
Oren Ezer, CEO of Electreon, emphasized the suitability of the wireless dynamic charging technology for BRT routes, stating, âIt tackles key challenges of the shift to electric mobility,â and offers a comprehensive solution for the growing BRT market, both in Israel and internationally.