In a recent interview with Jay Leno about the Cybertruck, Tesla Chief Designer Franz von Holzhausen confirmed the active development of a wireless charging solution for their electric vehicles (EVs). Despite not having publicly disclosed the initiative earlier, there have been subtle indications throughout the year, including a sneak peek during an Investor Day presentation.
During the presentation, an image featuring a Model S in a home garage revealed a new charger on the wall and a charging pad beneath the electric sedan, hinting at ongoing wireless charging development. Confirmation was obtained by Drive Tesla from sources familiar with the matter, identifying the initiative as “Project Garfield.”
See also: Tesla Unveils Sneak Peek of Upcoming Wireless Home Charging Station
Further fueling speculation, Tesla later acquired the European wireless charging solutions company, Wiferion, although they promptly sold off the business while retaining the engineers through a process known as acqui-hiring.
While the specific launch timeline for Project Garfield remains undisclosed, Tesla, for the first time, officially acknowledged its existence. In the interview with Jay Leno, von Holzhausen mentioned, “we’re working on inductive charging,” providing a brief insight into its operational concept.
See also: Tesla Initiates Over-the-Air Software Update Following NHTSA Autopilot Recall
Wireless charging technology for EVs has progressed significantly, though challenges persist, including concerns about energy losses during the wireless power transmission process. Tesla’s prototype wireless chargers reportedly demonstrate high efficiency, challenging perceptions about the technology’s effectiveness.
BREAKING: Tesla directly confirms they are working on a wireless (inductive) charging pad for your garage where you just park over it and it automatically starts charging your vehicle. https://t.co/OK2ZRmAtVx pic.twitter.com/dfPq0H3egr
— Sawyer Merritt (@SawyerMerritt) December 18, 2023
