Energy Department Announces Up to $4 Million to Develop Wireless Chargers for Electric Vehicles
April 10, 2012
Energy Secretary Steven Chu today announced up to $4 million available this year to accelerate the development and deployment of wireless charging systems for electric vehicles (EVs). Developing wireless charging systems for light-duty EVs could accelerate the adoption of these energy efficient vehicles by making them more convenient to charge, both at home and away. The Administration's investments in electric vehicles are part of a comprehensive strategy to reduce America's reliance on foreign oil and help protect American families and businesses from spikes in oil prices.
Wireless charging technology has the potential to significantly increase the attractiveness and convenience of all-electric vehicles to consumers. In the near term, this funding will accelerate the development of wireless charging technology to provide hands-free, automated charging of parked vehicles. Static wireless charging—or wireless charging when the vehicle is parked—can ensure easy and efficient vehicle charging. Future wireless charging could extend EV range by enabling a driver to charge up during a trip when the vehicle is not in motion, such as when stopped at traffic lights. Wireless charging has the potential to reduce the total energy storage requirements of EVs, unlocking the benefits of lighter and smaller battery packs, lighter vehicles, higher efficiency and longer ranges.
Through this funding opportunity, the Department intends to select up to four projects to research and develop a wireless charging system, integrate it into a production vehicle, and test it in real-world operating conditions. Vehicles equipped with this technology could reach the market this decade.
As part of a planned three-year initiative, the Department will make up to $4 million available in fiscal year 2012 for awards under this funding opportunity. Pending successful completion of project milestones, the Energy Department plans to make additional requests totaling $8 million from Congress, resulting in a total value of up to $12 million over three years for selected projects.
More information, including application and cost-share requirements, is available on the Department's Funding Opportunity Exchange website and applications must be submitted through that website to be considered for award. The Department expects to announce selections by summer 2012.
The Energy Department's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy accelerates development and facilitates deployment of energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies and market-based solutions that strengthen U.S. energy security, environmental quality, and economic vitality. Learn more about DOE's efforts to meet tomorrow's transportation challenges with an integrated portfolio of advanced vehicle and fuel research, development, demonstration, and deployment activities.
