Sweden is poised to revolutionize electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure with the construction of the world’s first permanent electrified road. This ambitious project, located on European route E20 between Hallsberg and Örebro, aims to facilitate dynamic charging for EVs while they are in motion, significantly reducing the need for frequent charging stops. As part of Sweden's commitment to decarbonizing transportation and in response to the European Union's legislation mandating zero CO₂ emissions for new cars by 2035, this development is a crucial step toward sustainable mobility.
The electrified road will utilize one of three potential charging systems: a catenary system with overhead wires for heavy vehicles, conductive charging via ground-based rails, or inductive charging through wireless technology embedded in the road. Each method offers unique advantages, and experts believe that dynamic charging could enable vehicles to travel longer distances with smaller batteries. Research indicates that integrating home charging with dynamic systems could reduce private car battery sizes by up to 70%.
Currently, the project is in its procurement phase and is expected to be operational by 2025. Sweden also plans to expand its electrified road network to 3,000 km by 2045, collaborating with Germany and France to share knowledge on electric road systems. Other countries, including Italy, the UK, the US, and India, are exploring similar initiatives, highlighting a global shift towards innovative solutions for sustainable transportation.
