Hertz is First Rental Car Company to Test Hassle-Free, Wireless Charging for EV Fleet
While electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more mainstream, the issue of where, when and how to recharge is still problematic for some existing and potential EV consumers. But that may soon change.
Hertz recently announced it will be the first rental car company to implement a wireless charging system for its fleet of EVs. The world’s largest rental car company is teaming up with Virginia-based Evatran, LLC to participate in the Plugless Power pilot program, known as the Apollo Launch Program, the first of its kind in the world.
Plugless Power is the first EV charging system on the market that offers a hassle-free method of recharging electric vehicles without the use of a cord and plug. In fact, the system begins automatically charging the moment the EV is parked over the parking pad. Just park it and go. The user-friendly, wall-mounted user panel serves as a parking guide for optimal performance.
Besides Hertz, the three-month trial will also follow leaders from five other “high-profile commercial participants.” Participants in the program will provide feedback on functionality issues, daily usage routines, etc.
Hertz will begin testing the wireless charging system once the installation process at the company corporate headquarters in New Jersey is complete, which is expected to be sometime this month. Plugless Power will be available for the Chevrolet Volt and Nissan Leaf for both fleet and home use by the end of 2012 with an estimated consumer price of $2,500.
Jace Shoemaker-Galloway is a freelance writer from Illinois. While much of her writing focuses on technology, parenting and online safety issues, she has a strong interest in environmental and renewable energy-related issues as well.
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