The city of Oslo, the world’s EV capital, has partnered with Jaguar Land Rover, wireless charging pioneer Momentum Dynamics and charging operator Fortum Recharge to build a wireless, high-powered charging infrastructure for electric taxis.

Taxi network Cabonline will operate 25 Jaguar I-PACE EVs equipped with Momentum Dynamics’ wireless charging system.

To devise a charging system that doesn’t require drivers to leave their routes during working hours, Momentum installed multiple below-ground charging plates, each rated at 50-75 kW, at taxi ranks. This allows each e-taxi to charge while waiting for the next fare. The system uses no cables, requires no physical connection between charger and vehicle, engages automatically, and provides on average 6-8 minutes of energy per charge. 

The taxi can receive multiple charges throughout the day, each time it returns to the rank, maintaining a high state of charge and the ability to remain in service 24/7.

“The taxi industry is the ideal test bed for wireless charging, and indeed for high-mileage electric mobility across the board,” said JLR CEO Sir Ralf Speth. “The inherently safe, energy-efficient and high-powered wireless charging platform will prove critical for electric fleets, as the infrastructure is more effective than refuelling a conventional vehicle.”

“We’re delighted to welcome private enterprises to help us to turn our vision into reality,” said Arild Hermstad, Oslo’s Vice Mayor for Environment and Transport. “By improving infrastructure and providing better charging to the taxi industry, we are confident that by 2024 all taxis in Oslo will be zero-emission.”

Source: Jaguar Land Rover