Fraunhofer Institute for Transportation and Infrastructure Systems IVI
How can we charge electric trucks and other heavy commercial vehicles in a fast, efficient, and space-saving way in the future? This was the central question when Fraunhofer IVI and their application partner, Stadtreinigung Dresden GmbH, welcomed Tobias Wagner, professional trucker and influencer known as the Elektrotrucker, at the institute. On our test track, we presented our innovative charging solution for commercial e-vehicles to him and invited him to experience it for himself.
Charging without cables – automated and powerful
The underbody charging system developed at Fraunhofer IVI relies on an automated charging process happening directly at the car's underbody. Wery high charging capacities of up to 4.5 megawatts can be transferred without manual connection and without any charging cables. The system fully retracts into the ground and is not reliant on bulky charging stations, which is a decisive advantage especially for depots, logistics centers or municipal vehicle fleets with limited space available.
The aim is creating the easiest possible charging process for drivers: just stop, charge, continue driving - without getting out of the vehicle, without handling any cables.
Focus on the users' perspective
For many years, Fraunhofer IVI has been carrying out research into intelligent charging for commercial e-vehicles. In addition to technical questions, aspects such as space efficiency, operating safety, and user acceptance are also taken into account. In order to include this perspective at an early stage, exchange with an experienced user such as Tobias Wagner was especially valuable. He is on the road across Europe and has become a permanent fixture within the e-truck community thanks to his candid contribution to topics such as charging infrastructure.
The direct dialog with people who are on the road electrically on a day-to-day basis, gives us important input for the technologie's further improvement. The visit was an entertaining afternoon filled with interesting discussions and a successful practical demonstration. In an interview with Dr. Frank Steinert, Head of Department Vehicle Systems at Fraunhofer IVI, many technical issues were discussed in detail. Tobias Wagner postet the interview and further impressions on his YouTube channel.
