Drivers ready to adopt wireless EV technology, new survey shows: Tech: Tech Times

In a future where electric vehicles (EVs) can charge seamlessly while driving on highways, the ability of drivers to use such technology is now being tested. A new survey from the University of Auckland reveals that most New Zealand drivers are excited about the concept of dynamic wireless charging for electric vehicles.

This photo taken on October 5, 2023 shows a driver charging a VinFast electric car at a charging station in Hanoi.
(Photo: NHAC NGUYEN/AFP via Getty Images)

New Zealand drivers are ready for wireless EV technology

The survey, conducted among 1,150 current and potential electric vehicle drivers, reveals mixed feelings. Although there are concerns about the safety and costs associated with dynamic wireless charging, the overall sentiment is positive.

PhD student Ramesh Majhi, senior lecturer Prakash Ranjitkar from the Faculty of Engineering and lead researcher Selena Sheng from the Business School designed the survey to gauge public opinion on wireless charging technology.

The survey found that 93% of respondents responded positively to dynamic wireless charging technology and expressed interest in testing it soon. Participants cited its convenience as the main benefit, which could significantly improve the current electric vehicle charging experience by complementing traditional stationary charging stations.

According to the survey results, people who care about sustainability are more likely to support and use dynamic wireless charging of electric vehicles. Additionally, urban residents are more likely to adopt this technology than their rural counterparts.

However, the study also noted that social influences, including peer choices and behaviors, play a role in drivers’ decisions to adopt technology.

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Concerns About Wireless EV Technology

The survey raised concerns about data privacy, electromagnetic radiation and the costs of adopting and using wireless road technology. These issues indicate that despite excitement about the convenience and sustainability of this technology, there are still barriers to its widespread adoption.

Majhi, the lead investigator, pointed out that dynamic wireless charging might not be practical for urban transportation. However, it could benefit intercity travel by reducing reliance on rechargeable charging stations, which often require highway detours.

Sheng emphasized the importance of understanding public perception to develop effective measures and policies to integrate dynamic wireless charging into the transportation network. She noted that current inadequacies in charging infrastructure challenge the transition to electric vehicles due to their environmental benefits.

Overall, the research suggests that while New Zealand drivers have a positive view of dynamic wireless charging, there are important concerns that need to be addressed to ensure its successful implementation.

“This is where on-road charging lanes will help, and it is essential that policymakers know how best to manage the deployment of this type of technology in the future and ensure that people’s concerns are understood and hopefully mitigated,” Sheng said. said in a statement.

The results of the study were published in the journal Transportation Research Part F: Traffic Psychology and Behavior.

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