Skip to main content

Toyota offers Qi wireless in-car charging

According to Toyota, its Avalon Limited will be the first vehicle available in the world that offers in-console Qi wireless charging for Qi–enabled mobile phones and devices as part of a technology package, available for both the petrol and hybrid version of the new Avalon Limited, which also includes dynamic radar cruise control, automatic high beams and a pre-collision system. Qi is the global standard for wireless power and charging. With Qi, devices can be charged just by placing them on, or near, any Q
December 24, 2012 Read time: 2 mins
According to 1686 Toyota, its Avalon Limited will be the first vehicle available in the world that offers in-console Qi wireless charging for Qi–enabled mobile phones and devices as part of a technology package, available for both the petrol and hybrid version of the new Avalon Limited, which also includes dynamic radar cruise control, automatic high beams and a pre-collision system.

Qi is the global standard for wireless power and charging. With Qi, devices can be charged just by placing them on, or near, any Qi-enabled surface. Any Qi-enabled device works with any Qi charger, regardless of brand or manufacturer.

The Avalon's wireless charging pad is integrated into the ebin (Toyota’s name for storage containers for handheld electronic devices) lid situated in vehicle's centre console. The system can be enabled by a switch beneath the lid, and charging is as simple as placing the phone upon the lid's high-friction surface.

Supplied by Denso, the Avalon's wireless charging system relies on technology developed by ConvenientPower and Philips Lite-on Digital Solution (PLDS), and it will elevate the high technology experience of the new Avalon sedan.

"Pioneering the ability to charge with no wires or connectors by simply putting devices in the car console is an intuitive innovation which reflects Toyota's continuing commitment to improve the consumer experience," said Randy Stephens, Chief Engineer of Toyota Avalon. "We see wireless charging as an important feature that helps enhance the high-technology theme and consumer interface offered by Avalon Limited which is already equipped with three TFT color screens and Intellitouch controls."

Qi wireless charging is now integrated in thirty-four mobile phone models, including recent launches of the LG 1691 Google Nexus 4, 183 Nokia Lumia 920, 3876 HTC Windows Phone 8X. Qi-certified products range from smartphones to charging pads, gaming controllers, Blu-ray disc recorders, smartphone docking speakers, automobile phone chargers, alarm clocks and battery packs, to charging modules that can be installed in tabletops and furniture.

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • Sound synthesis makes hybrid and electric vehicles safer
    January 20, 2012
    The growing popularity of hybrids and electric vehicles gives rise to new safety issues in urban environments, as many of the aural cues associated with engine noise can be missing. The solution is to intelligently make vehicles noisier. The rise in popularity of hybrids and Electric Vehicles (EVs) is a result of environmental pressures, shifts in taxation and emerging technologies for batteries and motors. Competition among the car manufacturers means these vehicles need to be cost effective to buy and ope
  • Q&A: ‘It’s time to be honest about micromobility’
    April 10, 2025
    The micromobility market is in flux, cities are hitting back: so how can bike- and scooter-share providers move forward in a way that satisfies everyone? Adam Hill finds out…
  • ABB adds AC Wallboxes to portfolio of charging solutions
    March 23, 2018
    ABB has added alternative current (AC) Wallboxes to its portfolio of charging solutions. The systems can be installed in homes and businesses and are said to be ideally suited for companies that want to provide overnight charging facilities for clients that work in sectors such as hospitality. The products are manufactured with a robust all-weather enclosure for indoor and outdoor use and are available in different versions, offering 4.6 and 11 kW AC charging as well as 22 kW AC 3-phase charging. The
  • ABB adds AC Wallboxes to portfolio of charging solutions
    June 28, 2018
    ABB has added alternative current (AC) wallboxes to its portfolio of charging solutions. The company says that the systems can be installed in homes and businesses and are suited to companies that want to provide overnight charging facilities. The products are manufactured with a robust all-weather enclosure for indoor and outdoor use and are available in different versions, offering 4.6 and 11 kW AC charging as well as 22 kW AC 3-phase charging. The chargers are fitted and maintained via ABB’s global