PITTSBURGH – SAE International has chosen MAHLE’s positioning system as the global standard for wireless EV charging, a move that closes a final gap in standardizing inductive charging for electric vehicles.
MAHLE’s cross-manufacturer solution paves the way for a rapid, comprehensive introduction of alternatives to wired, plug-in charging for electric- and hybrid-electric vehicles.
Wireless EV charging systems are much more convenient to use. They eliminate the need for cables and the search for charging stations with compatible plugs. MAHLE’s system allows for an electric vehicle to be charged by precisely aligning it over a floor-based charging coil.
The company’s Differential Inductive Positioning System (DIPS) represents a paradigm shift in the field of e-mobility, according to MAHLE Management Board Chairman and CEO Arnd Franz.
“MAHLE is setting standards,” said Franz. “SAE’s decision in favor of our technology confirms the systems expertise of MAHLE in electrification as well. This will be a strong impetus for e-mobility.”
DIPS automatically establishes a connection with a controlled charging point on a garage floor or parking lot as the electric vehicle approaches. Once the vehicle is in position, the charging process begins automatically.
The system also works with vehicles that are parked autonomously. Thanks to MAHLE’s unique system, the “positioning” process can be easily carried out in one attempt even in unfavorable environmental conditions if, for example, snow or wet leaves happen to cover the charging plate.
For wireless EV charging, components related to both infrastructure and the vehicle itself must be standardized. Vehicle manufacturers and infrastructure providers then can offer a market solution that ensures compatibility regardless of the manufacturer.
MAHLE will make its solution accessible to the entire industry via a license model under FRAND (fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory) conditions.
The broad applicability of MAHLE’s system also will enable other mobile applications in the future, such as charging while vehicles are driven via induction coils placed in the road. MAHLE also has formulated the standard for this application with Electreon Wireless.
In terms of charging infrastructure, MAHLE has long relied on wireless charging, which is a convenient and promising alternative for electric vehicles.
“Siemens and Witricity are two strong partners at our side with whom we are jointly advancing a complete system of charging infrastructure and automotive engineering,” said MAHLE’s Head of Corporate Research and Advanced Engineering Dr. Harald Straky.
MAHLE executives and engineers will be available at CES 2024 on January 9-12 in Las Vegas to discuss DIPS and the company’s work in electrification and thermal management.
SAE develops global technology standards, including the standardization of the vehicle identification number. More than 128,000 engineers and technology experts from the aerospace, automotive and commercial-vehicle industries are organized within SAE International.
