Honda plans highway test of wireless charging for moving trucks

Honda may begin trials in late 2026, with public demonstrations planned for April 2027

Japanese automaker Honda Motor said on Monday it ​has developed technology that ‌can wirelessly charge electric vehicles, including large trucks, while being driven, ​and plans to test the ​technology on a Japanese highway.

Honda ⁠plans to test the ​technology along with construction firm Taisei ​and road builder Taisei Rotec in the financial year beginning in April ​2027 or later, it ​said in a statement

The system, developed by ‌Honda's ⁠research arm with the two firms, aims to transfer electricity wirelessly from charging units embedded ​in ​roads to ⁠vehicles in motion, which could lead to fewer ​charging stops.

According to technology.com, the technology is being developed by Honda Research and Development and Taisei Rotec. The system is based on magnetic coupling technology designed to transmit power to moving EVs, mainly logistics trucks.

Honda may launch its first trials in late 2026, with public demonstrations planned for April 2027. The website said the system has three components: a DC power supply, a power transmitter embedded in the pavement, and a receiver under the vehicle.

A Honda engineer declined to comment on the cost compared with a conventional high-speed charging network, saying its economic viability would need to be assessed.