As part of Norway’s mission to have all taxis in its capital emission-free by 2024, it is making a strong push to introduce the latest electrification and infrastructure technologies. It has been revealed that Oslo will be the world’s first metropolitan area to install wireless, induction-based high-powered charging stations for electric taxis.
Project partners include US charging technology company Momentum Dynamics, charge point operator Fortum Recharge and taxi operator Cabonline/NorgesTaxi. Included in this coalition is Jaguar Land Rover, who will provide 25 of its I-Pace models to Carbonline, the largest taxi network in the Nordics.
The project known as ElectriCity will be the first wireless high-powered charging system for electric taxis in the world and by providing a charging infrastructure model that can be implemented almost anywhere, it will help the rapid adoption of electric vehicles globally.
For usage efficiency, Taxi drivers need a charging system that does not take them off route during their working hours. Multiple charging plates rated at 50-75 kilowatts each, are installed in the ground in series at pick-up-drop-off points. This allows each equipped taxi to charge while queuing for the next fare. The system, which uses no cables and situated below ground, requires no physical connection between charger and vehicle, engages automatically and provides on average 6-8 minutes of energy per each charge up to 50kW.
The taxi then receives multiple charges throughout the day on its return to the rank, maintaining a high battery state of charge and the ability to remain in 24/7 service without driving range restrictions.
The Oslo ElectriCity partnership is part of Jaguar Land Rover’s ambition to make societies healthier and safer, whilst reducing emissions. Delivered through relentless innovation to adapt its products and services to the rapidly changing world, the company’s focus is on achieving Destination Zero, a future of zero emissions, zero accidents and zero congestion.
Prof Sir Ralf Speth, Jaguar Land Rover chief executive, said: “We’re extremely proud of our track record in electrification and we’re committed to making electric vehicles easier to own and use. The taxi industry is the ideal test bed for wireless charging, and indeed for high-mileage electric mobility across the board.
The inherently safe, energy efficient and high-powered wireless charging platform will prove critical for electric fleets, as the infrastructure is more effective than refueling a conventional vehicle.”
