Ricardo to integrate wireless charging system for Electra Solo EV

Canadian-based Electra Meccanica (EM) has selected Ricardo to integrate a wireless electric vehicle charging system from Qualcomm into a planned autonomous version of its one-seater Solo electric vehicle (EV). The project aims to enable self-driving vehicles to be an option for future mobility services. Qualcomm's Halo system uses resonant magnetic induction to transfer energy wirelessly from a ground-based pad to one integrated within the vehicle. It is then used to recharge the battery while aiming
February 19, 2018 Read time: 2 mins
Canadian-based Electra Meccanica (EM) has selected 5606 Ricardo to integrate a wireless electric vehicle charging system from 213 Qualcomm into a planned autonomous version of its one-seater Solo electric vehicle (EV). The project aims to enable self-driving vehicles to be an option for future mobility services.


Qualcomm's Halo system uses resonant magnetic induction to transfer energy wirelessly from a ground-based pad to one integrated within the vehicle. It is then used to recharge the battery while aiming to remove the need for user interaction with infrastructure or cables.

Halo features a high misalignment tolerance, allowing it to support high and low road clearance vehicles such as sports utility vehicles and roadsters, with the pad installed either on the road, flush mounted or buried beneath the surface. In addition, the proper alignment of the charging pads is indicated through a positioning system, which is said to remove the need for precise parking.

EM is currently developing its Solo EV. The highway capable commuter car will come with three wheels and a 100-mile range via its 7.3 kWh Li-ion battery pack.

Paul Rivera, Ricardo's president, said: “Ricardo is pleased to have been asked to assist Electra Meccanica with the integration of the Qualcomm Halo wireless EV charging system on the Solo vehicle. Wireless charging of electric vehicles brings considerable benefits in terms of user convenience, avoiding the need to use cables or plug-in to recharge. We wish Electra Meccanica every success with the Solo vehicle and its new wireless charging capability.”

Related Content

  • New-build UK homes to come with EV chargepoint
    July 24, 2019
    The UK government intends to change its building regulations to ensure that all new-build homes with a dedicated parking space are fitted with an electric vehicle (EV) chargepoint. The proposals were outlined in a public consultation and are aimed at encouraging the uptake of EVs. Chris Grayling, transport secretary, says: “Home charging provides the most convenient and low-cost option for consumers – you can simply plug your car in to charge overnight as you would a mobile phone.” Additionally,
    Read More
  • Huber+Suhner showcase EV charging technology
    March 23, 2017
    International manufacturer of components and systems for optical and electrical connectivity, Huber+Suhner, will showcase its automotive solutions at the Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Technology Expo Europe in Sindelfingen, Stuttgart, 4-6 April. One of the highlights will be its cooled charging cable for high-power charging stations, which is able to multiply the power-throughput of a charging cable and reduce charging times to below 20 minutes, putting fast charging within reach, even with big battery packs
    Read More
  • Econolite and Sensys Networks collaborate on wireless vehicle detection
    August 27, 2014
    Econolite and Sensys Networks have entered into a collaborative sales, marketing and technical initiative that will see Econolite will offer the Sensys Networks VDS240 series of wireless flush-mount vehicle detection sensor products in select regional markets. While Econolite has a proven track record of more than 20 years of providing above-ground detection that has helped power some of the world’s most successful intelligent transportation systems (ITS), there are many applications that require an in-g
    Read More
  • NY to get EV charging stations
    April 16, 2013
    As part of an initiative to create 3,000 public and workplace stations over the next five years and to put 40,000 plug-in hybrid vehicles on the road in the state, New York is to have more than 360 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations installed throughout the state to help reduce fossil fuel use. Announcing the project, Governor Andrew Cuomo said, “Building this network of innovative charging stations will encourage New Yorkers to use fuel-efficient alternatives like electric vehicles as well as grow the
    Read More

Highlighted Content