As the transition to a decarbonized society accelerates, electric vehicles are expected to play a central role. At the same time, concerns about driving range, charging time, and waiting time remain major barriers to wider adoption. This research focuses on dynamic wireless power transfer (DWPT), which supplies power to vehicles while they are moving, and explores new forms of mobility infrastructure for a low-carbon future.

　Because DWPT places charging equipment directly into the road, vehicles can recharge while driving instead of relying entirely on stationary charging stops. However, such infrastructure cannot simply be installed everywhere; it is necessary to determine where and to what extent it should be deployed under limited investment. We therefore analyze optimal DWPT strategies through mathematical optimization, considering both long-distance travel on expressways and everyday movement in urban areas.

　The results suggest that, on expressways, it is economically rational to target roughly 95% of travel demand rather than trying to cover everything. In urban areas, the analysis shows that high performance can be achieved even with installation along only a small fraction of the road network by selecting strategically important corridors and intersections. The findings also indicate that an appropriate infrastructure layout could reduce the battery capacity required for EVs. This research rethinks mobility from both the vehicle side and the infrastructure side in order to envision a more sustainable transportation system.

For more details: Press release
For more details: Press release