Wireless EV charging road opens for testing in Detroit

Get ready for a charging boost in downtown Detroit.

On Nov. 29, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) installed the first-ever wireless electrified roadway. The technology works similar to that of a wireless charging pad. The charging coils, which are connected to the power grid, emit energy to receiver plates installed under a car or truck. This energy then passes through to the battery. 

This major milestone is all part of the partnership between the City of Detroit, MDOT and Electron  – an Israeli Company known for developing and providing wireless charging solutions for electric vehicles.

"We're excited to spearhead the development and deployment of America's first wireless charging road," said Dr. Stefan Tongur, vice president of business development for Electreon. "This milestone stands as a testament to our collaborative efforts with the State of Michigan and MDOT, the City of Detroit, Michigan Central, Ford, Mcity, Jacobs, Next Energy, DTE, and others. Alongside Michigan's automotive expertise, we'll demonstrate how wireless charging unlocks widespread EV adoption, addressing limited range, grid limitations, and battery size and costs. This project paves the way for a zero-emission mobility future, where EVs are the norm, not the exception."

The electrified roadway is built into 14th Street, stretching a quarter mile near the Michigan Central building in Detroit’s historic Corktown neighborhood.