Demonstration and development of dynamic wireless power transfer (DWPT), which contactlessly supplies power from power transmission coils embedded in the road surface to moving vehicles, are progressing. Japan's first demonstration test is scheduled for 2027 or later on the Tateyama Expressway operated by NEXCO East Japan. Toa Road Engineering, Tokyo University of Science and others are collaborating to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
Dynamic wireless power transfer (DWPT) is a system that contactlessly supplies power from power transmission coils embedded in the road to moving EVs, with the aim of reducing stationary charging and extending driving range. For practical implementation, developers are examining ways to reduce costs and ensure safety using thin-layer panel-type power transmission coils installed in the road surface, and joint development and field demonstrations by Toa Road Engineering and Tokyo University of Science are under way.
NEXCO East Japan plans Japan's first demonstration test of wireless power transfer to moving vehicles on the Tateyama Expressway. It is scheduled to take place on the mainline near Kimitsu PA. The demonstration is envisioned for 2027 or later and will evaluate and examine the constructability of coils embedded in the pavement, the safety of the driving surface and an ETC-linked billing system, among other factors.
The technologies selected by the Japan Institute for Land and Infrastructure Technology include Toa Road Engineering's contactless power-supply pavement and technologies developed by Obayashi Corporation and Taisei Corporation, among others. Various road-surface and vehicle-mounted systems are being considered. This could accelerate the development of power-supply infrastructure technology to support the wider adoption of EVs.