Honda tests wireless charging for EVs on public roads

Honda is developing a wireless charging system called dynamic wireless power transfer that could let electric vehicles charge while they drive. The charging equipment is embedded in the road surface. Honda and partners plan to start public‑road tests in Japan in spring 2027.

Testing Road‑Embedded Chargers

The system uses magnetic fields to transfer electricity from road‑embedded pads to a receiver on the vehicle. Honda builds the charging hardware, Taisei Corporation supplies the power‑supply system, and Taisei Rotec works on integrating the equipment into the road. Initial trials will take place at a research facility in Fukushima and later on the Tateyama Expressway in Chiba.

According to Auto Express, the system could deliver up to 150 kilowatts of power. Honda says the technology could reduce the need for drivers to stop at charging stations and allow automakers to use smaller battery packs. The company is especially interested in commercial vehicles, where eliminating charging stops could improve fleet efficiency.

The project faces engineering challenges. The embedded equipment must survive repeated impacts from heavy vehicles and meet electromagnetic safety standards. Tests will simulate roughly one million wheel loads and involve vehicles weighing about 20 tons.