While the revolution of electric vehicle (EV) usage takes off on a global scale, India is shifting rapidly to keep pace with this new world. One of the most exciting technologies to come from this new EV world is EV wireless charging — technology that could make owning an EV more convenient and efficient. In this article we will explore EV Wireless charging in India, the technology behind it, benefits and challenges, current state and future of the technology.

What is EV Wireless Charging?

Charging an EV without wires – also known as inductive charging – is great because it eliminates the need to plug in. The vehicle is charged wirelessly using electromagnetic fields. Similar to how smartphones can be charged wirelessly on charging pads, continuity electric vehicles can be charged using embedded charging systems on streets, in parking bays or garages.

The EV wireless charging technology seeks to eliminate battery charging issues with charging ports, plug compatibility, damage to charging ports, and user inconvenience, especially in India where climate and charging facilities can vary greatly regionally.

How Does Wireless EV Charging Work?

The principles of electromagnetic induction are used by the working principle of EV wireless charging.Here is an overview of the process:

• Charging Pad (Transmitter): A charging pad is typically located (embedded) on or under the ground in a parking space and/or road.
• Receiver Coil: the vehicle has a receiver coil situated on the underside of the vehicle.
• Power Transfer: When the vehicle is above the pad, the pad generates a magnetic field and induces a current flow in the receiver coil.
• Energy Conversion: The system then converts the induced current back to DC power and stores it in the vehicle’s battery.

We find the process relatively easy, and compared to plug-in charging, wireless or contactless charging proves potentially safer and easier.

Types of Wireless EV Charging

Three primary types of wireless EV charging systems are present.

1. Static wirelessly charging: 

• The vehicle is at rest (for example, parked). 
• This is best for both residential and commercial implementations. 
• Currently being piloted in India in a few corporate campuses and some government projects. 

2. Dynamic wirelessly charging:

• The charge occurs when the vehicle is in motion. 
• This is required by charging coils embedded into the road.
• They are still in the R&D stage globally, but have significant potential for EV wireless charging in India, especially on highways. 

3. Battery swapping (related tech):

• While not technically wireless, battery swapping, affords a cable-free experience. 
• Battery swapping technology is actively being tested in India, but lacks the seamless experience of true wireless technology.

Benefits of EV Wireless Charging in India

India has compelling road and population implications for wireless EV charging. Here are the prime advantages:

1. Convenience

Users can even just park the EV over the charging pad and do not have to deal with heavy or frequently damaged cables. This convenience could bring a lot of benefits particularly in a crowded urban city like Mumbai, Delhi or Bengaluru.

2. Weather Resistant

Traditional plugs and connectors take a beating during monsoon season. Wireless charging provides the sensors and charging pad, as opposed to exposing connectors to rain.

3. Less Maintenance

Because of no physical connectors, there is less wear and tear, meaning that their life expectancy increases and they ultimately cost less.

4. Safer Public Charging

One of the real issues with EV charging and the usage of connectors in public is the tripping hazard. This is another ease of charging with pads or built-up pads that there is less of a concern of tripping in public spaces with high volumes including shopping malls or public parking.

5. Supports Autonomous Vehicle Usage

This technology can enhance or will fit in seamlessly with autonomous EVs and the smart city applications / developments that India wants to see and has been rolling out; wireless EV charging will align with these development initiatives.

Challenges to EV Wireless Charging in India

EV wireless charging- despite its potential, India’s EV wireless charging has some challenges:

1. Costs of installation

The install costs for inductive charging are high; especially in public areas where the roads need to be dug up and rebuilt.

2. Compatibility

Current EVs may not have the ability to install wireless receivers. Retrofitting EVs can be expensive, as engineering may be required.

3. Efficiency

Although it is efficient, wireless charging can be slower compared to fast DC plug-in chargers. This may hinder the use of inductive charging if users are in a hurry with a short-range vehicle.

4. Regulations and safety standards

There is no standard for wireless EV charging in India; this can delay the development and adoption of inductive charging, and concerns remain for interoperability.

5. Public understanding

The general understanding of this technology is limited, and also limited on consumer awareness of the technology and its beneficial aspects.

The Current State of EV Wireless Charging in India is being observed.

• Government Initiatives

The Government of India is promoting EVs through schemes such as FAME II (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles) and PLI (Production Linked Incentive). The current attention is concentrated on conventional charging infrastructure. Advanced pilot projects are also seeing the emergence of wireless charging.

In 2023, the Ministry of Heavy Industries partnered with IITs and private companies to explore smart charging technology, including wireless charging. 

• Industry Involvement 

Several Indian startups and multinationals are investing in wireless charging R&D: 

• Triton Electric is seeing where dynamic wireless charging technology takes them. 
• Magenta Power and PlugNgo are testing inductive charging pads in their private parking areas. 
• Tata Power and Ather Energy are publically trying to see wireless options for scooters and motorcycles.

• Academic Research 

Institutions such as IIT Madras and IIT Delhi have been leading research to develop affordable wireless charging modules specifically for Indian conditions. This includes solutions for dust, water, and the Indian power grid.

International Influence and Potential Application in India

In South Korea, Germany, and the USA, dynamic wireless charging has been tested on public roads. These are some examples of projects that can be emulated in Indian smart cities and expressways.

Example Use Cases in India: 

• Electric Buses: Dynamic wireless charging on a metro feeder corridor.
• Fleet Vehicles: Static wireless charging at logistics centres.
• Residential Complexes: Private charge inductive pads for each EV owner.

Future Outlook: The Road Ahead

1. Standardization is Important

Unified standards will be key to scaling EV wireless charging in India. EV makers, energy companies, and the Bureau of Indian Standards will need to work closely together.

2. Smart Grids

Wireless charging can be smart grid-enabled. Wireless charging systems automatically distribute energy based on demand. This capability is something that India is rapidly working towards.

3. Support Mechanisms for Innovations

The government could consider establishing rebates for research and development, and deployment of wireless systems in the same manner as rooftop solar rebate systems. 

4. Public-Private Partnerships

The cooperation of public and private partnerships can also help reduce costs, and allow projects to happen quicker than they would otherwise, especially in semi-urban areas and tier-2 cities.

5. Urban Planning Considerations

The concept of including wireless charging in the framework of smart city urban planning should be developed as soon as a process is adopted to create and implement the urban infrastructure design.

Final Thoughts

Wireless charging for electric vehicles (EVs) is quite promising for India. Although at an early stage, wireless charging for EVs suits the ambitions of India’s aim for a greener, smarter future. If the current challenges can be solved through innovation, policy support, and public consciousness, India could become the leading developer of wireless EV charging in the developing world. 

As more manufacturers develop wireless-compatible EVs, and infrastructure companies pilot real-world applications of wireless charging, the ease-of-use and safety of wireless charging for EVs could change the way in which India powers its EVs.

FAQs on EV Wireless Charging in India

Q1: Is there wireless charging for EVs available in India?

Yes, at the early stages of testing within corporate campuses and R&D purposes. Widespread take-up for wireless charging is expected in the coming years.

Q2: What will it cost to install wireless charging at home?

It could be ₹2-5 lakh dependent on the system chosen, but by 2025 prices will drop due to mass adoption.

Q3: Can I retrofit my EV to have a wireless receiver fitted?

Some companies have retrofit options, but available options are limited, and depend on the year, make and model of the vehicle.

Q4: Can I use wireless charging if it is raining or flooding?

Yes. The system is weather-resistant and sealed against water, which is perfect for India’s weather conditions.

Q5: When will dynamic wireless charging be available on Indian roads? 

Dynamic charging is still being researched, but it may be implemented at the trial stage in specific expressways in the next 5-7 years.EV wireless charging in India is not just a futuristic idea – it is a practical solution for the country’s changing mobility dynamics. So, pay attention – it’s about to happen. Your convenience of charging your EV is going to be improved – wirelessly.