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Florida to Build Wireless Charging Expressway in Ambitious EV Project
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Published in Science and Technology on Tuesday, December 30th 2025 at 12:35 GMT by Time Out- 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
- 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Florida Gears Up for Wireless Charging Future with Innovative Expressway Project
Florida is poised to become a pioneer in electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure with the ambitious construction of a new expressway featuring embedded wireless charging technology. The project, slated to begin in 2026, aims to alleviate range anxiety and accelerate EV adoption by allowing vehicles to charge while driving – a concept that could fundamentally reshape how we think about transportation. While still in its planning stages, this initiative signals Florida’s commitment to embracing sustainable transportation solutions and potentially setting a global precedent.
The planned expressway, part of the broader effort to expand Florida's Turnpike system (as detailed by the Florida Department of Transportation), will be located in Osceola County, between Orlando and Kissimmee. This region was chosen strategically due to its high population density, significant tourism traffic, and existing transportation needs. The initial phase will focus on a 1.2-mile stretch, with plans for expansion depending on the project's success and funding availability.
The core innovation lies in the use of inductive charging technology – essentially wireless electricity transfer. This system utilizes coils embedded within the roadway surface to transmit power directly to compatible EVs equipped with receiving pads underneath their chassis. Imagine a future where drivers can top up their batteries simply by driving along a designated route, eliminating the need for frequent stops at charging stations.
The project is spearheaded by Electrify America, a subsidiary of Volkswagen Group established as part of a settlement related to emissions violations (you can read more about their mission and work here: [https://www.electrifyamerica.com/]). They are partnering with Florida’s Department of Transportation (FDOT) and the Orlando utility company, Duke Energy, on this groundbreaking endeavor. Electrify America has been actively exploring wireless charging solutions for several years, including pilot programs at universities and commercial sites, but the expressway project represents their most ambitious undertaking to date. Their previous efforts have focused on static wireless charging pads for parking lots and bus depots, providing valuable experience that informs the design of this dynamic roadway system.
The benefits extend beyond simply easing range anxiety. The continuous, low-level charging offered by the expressway would significantly reduce battery degradation over time, a key concern for many EV owners. It could also make EVs more accessible to drivers who lack home charging options – a significant barrier in apartment complexes and urban areas. Furthermore, it could attract tourists and residents alike, positioning Florida as a leader in innovative transportation technology.
However, the project faces several challenges. The cost is substantial; while an exact figure hasn't been publicly released for the entire expressway expansion, Electrify America has previously stated that static wireless charging pads can cost upwards of $10,000 to install. Scaling this up across a 1.2-mile stretch and beyond will require significant investment and potentially public funding. The technology itself is still relatively new and requires further refinement for widespread adoption. Current inductive charging systems typically offer lower power transfer rates than traditional wired chargers, meaning the "top-up" provided while driving might not be as rapid as a dedicated fast charger.
Another key hurdle is vehicle compatibility. Currently, only EVs equipped with compatible receiving hardware will be able to utilize the wireless charging lanes. This necessitates automakers integrating this technology into their vehicles, which will likely require industry collaboration and standardization efforts. While Electrify America has partnered with several automakers (including BMW, Hyundai, and Ford – see [https://www.electrifyamerica.com/partners]), widespread adoption across all EV brands remains to be seen.
The FDOT is also considering the impact on existing infrastructure and traffic flow. Integrating wireless charging technology into a highway requires careful planning to ensure safety and minimal disruption during construction and operation. Concerns about electromagnetic fields (EMF) emitted by the charging coils have been raised, though Electrify America assures that the systems will be designed to meet all relevant safety standards and regulations.
The timeline is ambitious. Construction is projected to begin in 2026, with a target completion date within a few years. The initial pilot phase will likely involve monitoring performance, gathering data on EV usage patterns, and making adjustments to optimize charging efficiency. This iterative approach allows for continuous improvement and refinement of the technology before wider deployment.
Ultimately, Florida's wireless charging expressway represents more than just an infrastructure project; it’s a bold statement about the future of transportation. It demonstrates a willingness to embrace innovative solutions that can address the challenges of EV adoption and create a more sustainable transportation ecosystem. While obstacles remain, the potential rewards – reduced range anxiety, improved battery life, increased accessibility, and global recognition as a leader in technology – make this project a worthwhile investment for Florida’s future. The success of this pilot program will undoubtedly influence the development of similar infrastructure projects around the world, paving the way for a truly wireless driving experience.
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Read the Full Time Out Article at:
[ https://www.timeout.com/miami/news/officials-to-build-a-new-florida-expressway-with-wireless-electric-vehicle-charging-in-2026-123025 ]
