Xiaomi, which has been busy for more than some time with the design and development of its own electric car, emerges with an interesting proposal to simplify the charging process. This idea, although still in its embryonic stage, could outline the future of wireless charging for electric vehicles. This is an innovative way of recharging the so-called Xiaomi Auto completely wirelessly. As? Maybe using a second car.
Xiaomi's patent envisions a second car to charge the main electric car
Xiaomi has recently deposited a patent covering a concept wireless charging for EV. At the heart of the idea is a small cargo car equipped with a battery, which autonomously approaches a vehicle that needs charging. Thanks to autonomous technology, the cargo car positions itself correctly, connects to the vehicle and begins the charging process. Although the patent is not yet complete and appears complex compared to currently available technology, it undoubtedly represents an intriguing step forward towards a better solution.
The process described in the patent seems a bit futuristic. A big coil connects the cargo car to the vehicle, keeping the two connected for the entire duration of the charging. This idea, however, raises some practical questions.
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First, if the project is intended for charging parked cars, it definitely looks like it complex compared to standard cable charging. It is difficult to imagine a parking lot full of EVs and small cargo cars that move autonomously to recharge the Xiaomi Cars themselves.
A possible alternative suggested by the patent is that of tow the cargo car as a kind of trailer, charging the EV along the way. However, this would require substantial advances in terms of transmission in the charger, so that the EV's batteries can handle the incoming current and power the motor at the same time.
Furthermore, it seems quite unlikely that the marketing of a similar system is possible. In fact, this would result in charging stations that are enormously larger than those we now see along motorways for example.
Through | arenaEV
Interesting!