Features

Electric Roads: A Solution for the Future

Illustrations © Authors

A new chapter in modern transport is almost upon us. Advancements in electric vehicle (EV) technology and a steady rise in EV sales point to a major change in future road transport. However, uptake of EVs has been slow primarily due to high purchase costs, limited battery range, and a lack of charging infrastructure. Furthermore, while developments are underway, electric and hybrid drive trains are yet to be efficiently integrated with heavy goods vehicles (HGVs). A novel way to overcome such challenges is by the installation of Electric Road Systems (ERS); a branch of technologies that allow vehicles to charge whilst in motion. The World Road Association (PIARC) commissioned TRL (United Kingdom) to undertake a state-of-the-art review and feasibility study of ERS concepts, focusing on implementation from a road administrations perspective.