Toyota traveled nearly 2,000 km solely on electricity without stopping. What was the trick behind it?

Electric vehicles surpass the majority of drawbacks associated with combustion vehicles, leading one to assert that they will eventually dominate the future. However, we are still eagerly awaiting a revolution in energy storage. The prolonged mandatory stops during long-distance journeys simply do not offer the same convenience as quick refueling and the ability to continue driving. The company Electreon strives for a minor revolution, at least until a genuine solution emerges.

Wireless chargers continuously recharge the vehicle

The company’s technology revolves around charging roads. On its premises, it has constructed a two-hundred-meter track with built-in wireless chargers, conveniently located on just a quarter of the circuit. They conducted the test using the hybrid SUV Toyota RAV4 Prime. In electric mode, it managed to travel over 1,930 kilometers without the need for charging stops.

A total of 56 drivers participated in the test, including renowned Israeli racecar driver Bar Barauch. The test yielded highly positive results and secured a place in the Guinness World Records as the longest distance covered and time spent driving in a personal electric-powered vehicle. While the term “hybrid vehicle” might seem misleading, the internal combustion engine was not in operation at any point during the entire duration of the test.

Photo by Electreon

Unlimited Range for Electric Vehicles?

The current average range of battery electric vehicles ranges from 400 to 500 kilometers, while plug-in hybrid models offer only a few tens of kilometers. Through this test, Electreon has achieved a milestone that can eliminate two major negative aspects of electric powertrains: concerns about limited range and battery size. It offers virtually limitless driving and can transform a vehicle with a small battery capacity into a capable vehicle.

During the test, Toyota only made necessary stops for driver changes. The power system was never turned off, and the vehicle was not connected to a charging station. The 18 kWh capacity battery never reached its capacity limit and was continuously recharged from the road system. The company is now working on projects beyond its domestic market in Israel. Pilot roads are expected to appear in Sweden, Italy, and Germany.