By Steven Symes 
For a long time, automakers have talked about wireless charging for EVs, but Porsche is about to make it a market reality. The German company has revealed its new 11 kW charging pad you only need to park your vehicle over, eliminating the need to plug in your ride every night.
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At first, the wireless charging pad will be available only for the Cayenne Electric. But it’s obvious Porsche will want to offer it for more of its growing stable of EVs. After all, the convenience alone might help tip more shoppers in its direction.
One of the many challenges faced by inductive charging for electric cars has been providing enough power. Porsche says its pad can provide up to 11 kW of current to replenish an EV’s battery, putting it on the same level as wired AC chargers that are currently ubiquitous.
As many EV owners know, and Porsche conducted a study to confirm, the overwhelming majority of charging is done at home. This inductive floor plate charger makes that far more convenient.
The charger is small at 46 by 30 by 2 inches and Porsche says it’s weatherproof, so it can be used in carports and open parking spaces, not just enclosed garages. It’s not clear if the thing is bolted to the ground or just sits there.
Charging happens over a distance of just a few inches.
But we do know there’s a motion detector in the charger so it will stop the flow of electricity if a foreign object creates a problem.
EVs need special hardware to work with inductive charging, with the Cayenne Electric being the first model which can be ordered with it.
“Ease of use, suitability for everyday use and charging infrastructure are still the decisive factors when it comes to the acceptance of electric mobility,” says Dr. Michael Steiner, Deputy Chairman and Member of the Executive Board, Research and Development.
“We are proud that inductive charging will soon be available in series production at Porsche. Charging an electric car at home has never been so easy and convenient.”
Images via Porsche
Mike Johnson