Will the parking lots of the future be very different from the currently popular parking areas? We cannot know, but they will certainly adapt more to the growing popularity of electric cars. In this regard, two technologies are revolutionizing the industry: fast charging-which is already a reality, however much it may be further improved-and wireless charging.
Faster and faster charging
La fast charging, whether fast or ultra-fast, allows a battery to be powered in significantly reduced time, making parking lots more attractive to electric motorists. These charging systems, typically adopted in strategic areas such as shopping malls, airports and highways, are already widespread on roads throughout Europe.
However, many wonder how energy demand will be managed when the number of fast-charging stations is much higher than today. It is difficult to answer with certainty, but directions include, for example, storage technologies and peak shaving models, which many operators are already adopting to relieve the load on the power grid. The implementation of advanced monitoring systems also enables more effective demand forecasting and management.
Wireless charging: wireless innovation
Wireless charging represents an innovative solution under development. Using induction technology, vehicles can be charged simply by parking over a dedicated platform. This mode is particularly beneficial for cabs and urban fleets, where every minute is precious.
Companies like WiTricity e Momentum Dynamics are pioneers in this field, with pilot tests in cities such as Oslo and Munich showing promising results. However, challenges remain related to installation costs and standardization. Collaboration between public and private entities will be crucial to overcome these barriers.
How wireless charging works
The principle behind wireless charging iselectromagnetic induction, a phenomenon discovered by Michael Faraday in 1831. This principle is applied in many modern devices, from smartphone chargers to induction ovens. In a wireless charging system, a transmit coil is integrated into the charging platform, while a receive coil is installed on the bottom of the electric vehicle.
When the vehicle parks on the platform, an electromagnetic field is generated by the transmitting coil, inducing a current in the vehicle's receiving coil. This current is then converted into electrical energy that charges the vehicle's battery.
Key benefits of wireless charging include:
- Convenience: no need to physically connect the vehicle to a charging station. Just park on top of the platform.
- Safety: reduces the risk of accidents (however rare), as there are no exposed cables.
- Efficiency: ideal technology for vehicles that need to be charged frequently during short stops, such as cabs and urban fleets.
Parking lots as energy hubs of the future
In the long term, in this scenario, parking lots could be transformed into true energy hubs, equipped with storage batteries, solar panels, and grid connections for smart integration. Operators who invest in this infrastructure not only improve their customers' experience, but can also generate new revenue streams by offering additional energy services.
An integrated ecosystem
With increasing environmental awareness and stricter government regulations, the adoption of electric cars is accelerating. Emerging technologies, such as wireless charging and ultra-fast stations, will not only improve the user experience but also contribute to a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.
In addition, the concept of parking is evolving toward an integrated ecosystem offering more and more additional services; according to some approaches, the integration of IoT technology and blockchain could further optimize parking management, improving operational efficiency and user experience.
Powy: innovative solutions for the present and future of charging
With Powy , the future of car park charging is now a reality. Discover our innovative solutions to improve your customers' experience and make your car park a hub for electric mobility. Investing in modern infrastructure not only meets current needs, but also paves the way for a more sustainable and convenient future.
Find out more about the experience Powy in the public and private parking sector: read about the solutions used with FS Park and G7 Parking
Contact us today to find out how we can help you transform your parking lot into a state-of-the-art energy hub !
About Powy
Powy a company that owns, develops, and manages Italy's leading independent network of public charging infrastructure for electric vehicles.
Founded in Turin, Italy in 2018, Powy is at the center of the transition to more sustainable mobility, offering an innovative charging infrastructure that uses only 100 percent renewable energy.
Powy 's network includes quick, fast, and ultra-fast charging solutions strategically placed in public and private parking lots, supermarkets, shopping malls, and transportation hubs to ensure maximum convenience and accessibility for EV drivers. Each station is equipped with advanced technologies to provide a reliable and efficient charging experience.
Learn more: wpowy.energy