Plugless Power Apollo Launch Programme

The Plugless Power system allows a user to avoid the plug-in process traditionally required by electric vehicles (EV). The wireless system provides the driver with parking guidance upon approach and automatically begins charging once the vehicle is in position. When the driver is ready to depart, the system automatically discontinues the recharging process.

Clemson University, as one of the Department of Energy's GATE Centers of Excellence, is participating in the Program to research technologies that may influence the development of advanced drivetrains and electric mobility as a whole. CU-ICAR is actively developing a portfolio of research activities and services around the ecosystems for sustainable mobility and the networked vehicle. To that end, Clemson University is also collaborating with Duke Energy, another Apollo Program participant, to understand how electric vehicles may interface with the electrical grid.

The Apollo Launch Program is an initiative started by Evatran to increase awareness of wireless charging technology. Through partnership with five electric vehicle industry leaders including Duke Energy, Clemson University's International Center for Automotive Research (CU-ICAR), and Hertz, the Program follows participants as they trial wireless charging technology on their own electric vehicles. Installations will begin in March 2012. Participants will test the wireless technology at their locations across the country for three months and provide feedback to Evatran. Installations focus on commercial partners who have the Nissan LEAF or Chevrolet Volt in their fleets. Evatran is working with Yazaki North America™, a Tier 1 automotive supplier, to develop the prototypes for the trial.