DUBAI 13 February 2020: Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched the test-run of the dynamic wireless charging of electric vehicles and buses in motion using the Shaped Magnetic Field In Resonance (SMFIR) technology in Dubai Silicon Oasis.
The step is part of RTA’s efforts to run green and sustainable transit means and support Dubai’s smart government drive.
“RTA is undertaking this project, which is part of Dubai Future Accelerators, in collaboration with Dubai Electricity and Water Authority and Dubai Silicon Oasis. The initial phase covers preparing the infrastructure and laying an embedded power-charging grid underneath a 60-metre road strip at the Dubai Silicon Oasis for the dynamic wireless charging of electric vehicles and buses in motion,” said Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer, RTA Director-General and Chairman.
“RTA has tested an electric vehicle and a bus on this path, and results proved a highly efficient wireless charging system comparable with the cable charging. Moreover, the electromagnetic level on board was within the accepted global range.
“The successful operation of electric vehicles using this technology and their deployment in RTA’s public transport fleet hinges largely on the availability and reliability of the charging technology. It enables seamless operation of the vehicle without any stopping at charging stations. Embedded under the road, the technology is invisible and as such has no visual pollution impact on the city. Also, it does not hamper the movement of people and vehicles like on-road cable chargers,” added Al Tayer.
RTA recently endorsed an initiative, the first of its kind worldwide, for converting 90% of Dubai limos into environmentally-friendly (hybrid-electric) vehicles by 2026. RTA has also made significant progress in converting 50% of Dubai Taxis into hybrid vehicles by 2021. It has also launched the trial run of the first electric taxi powered by hydrogen fuel cells as part of the Dubai Taxi fleet.
