‘Smart Highways’ That Charge Electric Cars While You Drive Are Coming To U.K.

‘Smart Highway’ design concept by Studio Roosegaarde and Heijmans Infrastructure

Testing for ‘smart roads’ that charge electric cars while they drive is set to begin in the U.K. this year.

The ‘electric highways’ will enable those with electric cars to drive long distances without having to stop to recharge the battery.

Co-ordinated by Highways England, the scheme will use inductive charging equipment running underneath the asphalt to charge compatible cars as they drive along.

Highways England Chief Engineer Mike Wilson said: “The off road trials of wireless power technology will help to create a more sustainable road network for England and open up new opportunities for businesses that transport goods across the country”.

The trials are due to start later in the year and will last for 18 months. If the technology is successful it could be rolled out across all of the UK’s motorways a A-roads.

Transport Minister Andrew Jones said: “The potential to recharge low emission vehicles on the move offers exciting possibilities. The government is already committing £500 million over the next five years to keep Britain at the forefront of this technology, which will help boost jobs and growth in the sector”.

Along with testing the road-based wirelessly charging system, Highways England is also committed to installing conventional charging points every 20 miles along the motorway as part of the government’s Road Investment Strategy.

(Image credit: Studio Roosegaarde/Heijmans Infrastructure)