Who will get wireless charging first?

March 5, 2026

While Iveco’s wireless-charging van points to a possible future for electric fleets, several earlier trials suggest the technology is still evolving before large-scale deployment.

One of the most prominent UK demonstrations was the Wireless Charging of Electric Taxis (WiCET) project in Nottingham. The four-month trial installed 11kW induction charging pads beneath a taxi rank, allowing specially equipped taxis to charge automatically while waiting for passengers. Vehicles simply aligned over the pad and began charging, with billing handled digitally.

Researchers reported around 90% power transfer efficiency, comparable with conventional plug-in chargers. However, the study also highlighted operational challenges such as slower communication between vehicle and charging pad and the need to familiarise drivers with regular “top-up” charging rather than longer plug-in sessions.

Elsewhere, Coventry University is investigating dynamic charging through coils embedded beneath road surfaces, focusing on potential applications for buses and logistics vehicles operating fixed routes.

So far, most real-world trials have centred on commercial vehicles, where predictable routes and dwell times make wireless charging easier to test. Consumer applications remain limited, although Porsche is developing an 11kW wireless home charger for the upcoming Porsche Cayenne Electric. The system uses a driveway-mounted charging plate that transfers energy across an 11-16cm air gap with up to 90% efficiency.

However, the technology is not yet commercially available, with Porsche planning to launch the system alongside the Cayenne Electric from 2026 as a premium optional extra. For now, these projects suggest wireless charging is technically viable, but likely to emerge first in controlled fleet environments before becoming common in everyday consumer charging.