The LaneCharge consortium partners recently unveiled the outcomes of their research during the concluding event of the LaneCharge project, initiated in 2019. The collaborative effort focused on developing and testing an innovative inductive charging system, with practical tests proving successful.
The project, led by Hanover University of Applied Sciences and Arts, conducted practical trials under laboratory conditions, showcasing the viability of the inductive charging system. Electric vehicles were wirelessly charged on a test track spanning over 90 meters, equipped with up to 12 induction coils on the university grounds in Hanover. Following project completion, the technology will remain available for research and teaching purposes at the university.
Key features of the LaneCharge project include the integration of induction coils into the asphalt, vehicle-side control of the required charging power—protected by a filed patent application—and the incorporation of charging electronics in underground control cabinets.
Launched in 2019, the LaneCharge project aimed to develop a fully functional inductive charging system. In the final phase, the system was tested with two converted vehicles at a cab rank in Rundestraße, north of Hanover Central Station. EDAG, a development service provider, played a crucial role in the project by handling power electronics and integrating various components into the vehicle. The emphasis on incorporating charging technology into the vehicle itself is anticipated to reduce costs and enhance robustness.
While not designed for inductive charging while driving, the system is tailored for continuous intermediate charging in “stop & go situations,” such as cab ranks, facilitating the use of smaller battery capacities or increased vehicle range.
Heiko Hepp, a professor at Hanover University of Applied Sciences and Arts, highlighted the system’s appeal for local authorities and infrastructure operators, as it allows for the creation of charging points without altering the cityscape.
Matthias Girlach, Head of Embedded Systems at the EDAG Group, emphasized the broader potential of inductive charging, extending beyond electric vehicles to intralogistics. Inductive charging, with its convenience and automation potential, is particularly relevant for automated vehicles in private and non-public areas, such as industrial parks and airport aprons.
The LaneCharge consortium included partners such as Sumida Components & Modules GmbH, Technical University of Braunschweig, Enercity AG, Götting KG, Hallo Taxi 3811 GmbH, and the state capital of Hanover. Hanover University of Applied Sciences and Arts played a central role as the consortium leader, overseeing project management, power control, and communication systems. EDAG managed power electronics and vehicle integration. The project signifies a step forward in the development of innovative inductive charging solutions with potential applications beyond electric vehicles.
