Powering Up on the Go: Florida SR 516 Wireless Charging 2029 Project Unveiled

Imagine a world where your electric vehicle's battery level increases as you drive. Florida is making this a reality with the construction of State Road 516, also known as the Lake/Orange Expressway. Located west of Orlando, this ambitious project isn't just about reducing traffic—it's about integrating 21st-century wireless power technology directly into the pavement.

Florida SR 516 Wireless Charging 2029: How the Tech Works

According to reports from Techspot, a 0.75-mile section of the highway will feature inductive charging coils buried beneath the asphalt. These coils create a magnetic field that transfers up to 200kW of power to receivers attached to the underside of vehicles. While it won't provide a full charge in seconds, it's designed to significantly extend the range of EV trucks and buses as they traverse the route.

The highway is expected to be fully operational around 2029. Unlike traditional 'E-highways' that rely on unsightly overhead wires, this inductive system is invisible and doesn't require complex physical connections. It represents a major leap toward seamless EV infrastructure that addresses the core anxieties of electric transport.

Redefining Sustainable Transportation Infrastructure

While states like California focus on expanding their network of over 200,000 stationary charging stations, Florida's dynamic charging approach offers a different solution. If successful, this technology could reduce the industry's dependence on massive battery packs, potentially lowering the cost and weight of future electric vehicles.

Beyond wireless power, SR 516 will also incorporate solar panels to power nearby infrastructure, wildlife crossings to protect local biodiversity, and shared-use paths for non-automobile travel. It's a holistic approach to what a modern highway should be.