Through advances in energy transfer and switching, energy storage, electric motors, communications, and precise-positioning technologies, the development of roadway-powered electric vehicles (RPEVs) is becoming increasingly viable. These vehicles would be able to draw intermittent power, while moving, from power sources buried in select portions of the roadway. The ability for electric vehicles to safely and conveniently charge energy-storage devices while in motion would lessen the dependence on batteries, currently the biggest drawback of battery-powered electric vehicles, and extend the range of the vehicles, opening up avenues of consumer acceptance. Employing this method of energy transfer could provide an effective alternative to current electric-powered vehicles, which include hybrid electric vehicles, battery-powered electric vehicles with limited range, and transit vehicles that draw power from an overhead power line or live rail. With modification to the current roadway infrastructure, RPEVs can provide an environmentally sound means for transportation in personal and transit vehicles. (A*)
Abstract