First Successful Wireless Charge Completed on Electric Semi Truck at Highway Speeds
Engineers at Purdue University have achieved a landmark breakthrough in electric freight technology: the first successful wireless charging of an electric semi truck while it traveled at highway speeds. The test, conducted in the fall of 2025, took place on a quarter‑mile segment of US Highway 52/US Highway 231 in West Lafayette, Indiana.
During the trial, a Class 8 Cummins electric semi truck received 190 kW of power using a wireless power transfer system while moving at approximately 65 mph. This innovation relied on transmitter coils embedded beneath the pavement that delivered power to the truck’s receiver unit — all without the need for cords, plugs, or stopping.
Unlike static charging stations that require vehicles to halt, this dynamic charging system hints at a future in which electric freight could recharge while in motion — a revolutionary step toward minimizing downtime and range concerns that have slowed widespread adoption of heavy‑duty electric vehicles.
How the Wireless System Works
The wireless charging setup uses coils embedded under the roadway. When a compatible electric truck drives over the gut of these coils, energy can be transferred directly into the vehicle’s battery system at significant power levels. In Purdue’s test, 190 kW was successfully transferred while the truck maintained highway speed.
Purdue’s researchers believe the same system could be adapted for lighter electric vehicles, meaning the technology offers potential benefits beyond trucking.
“Purdue has shown that powering large commercial vehicles wirelessly is not just technically feasible but could be a practical and scalable solution for real‑world highway transportation,” said Nadia Gkritza, a Purdue professor involved in the project.
Officials from the Indiana Department of Transportation also applauded the effort, calling the project a glimpse into the future of heavy‑duty EV charging infrastructure.
What This Means for the Future of Trucking
This wireless charging success is more than just a lab‑demo — it points toward a transformative shift in how freight moves. Here’s why it matters:
Reduced Charging Downtime: One of the biggest barriers to electric commercial truck adoption has been downtime spent charging. Wireless in‑motion charging could minimize breaks and maximize productive driving hours.
Extended Range Confidence: Range anxiety — fear of running out of charge before reaching a station — has hampered EV freight solutions. Embedded wireless charging lanes could essentially extend range without sacrificing delivery timelines.
Infrastructure Evolution: Charging stations are expensive and take up space and time. Dynamic wireless infrastructure embedded in roadways could streamline the electrification of fleet operations.
Industry Momentum: Projects like this signal to OEMs, carriers, and policy makers that electric freight power systems are viable and moving closer to real‑world deployment.
Broader Adoption Potential: If wireless charging becomes standardized, fleets could operate EVs more confidently on long hauls without the need for massive battery capacities.
Challenges Ahead
While exciting, this technology is not ready for widespread highway deployment just yet. Some of the hurdles include:
Infrastructure Cost: Embedding coils under highways requires significant upfront investment and coordination with state and federal transportation agencies.
Standardization: There must be agreement on charging standards, power levels, and safety protocols before widespread adoption.
Scalability: Early tests show feasibility — but large‑scale rollouts across interstate systems will need extensive validation, public support, and private investment.
Truck Integration: Vehicle OEMs must design EV platforms that accommodate wireless receivers and maintain performance and reliability under commercial loads.
Despite these challenges, engineers and industry leaders see this test as an important step forward. As carriers seek ways to reduce emissions, cut fuel costs, and meet sustainability mandates, advanced charging solutions could play a key role in future fleet operations.
A Look Ahead
Major OEMs and tech partners are already investing in electric and autonomous freight technology. As infrastructure evolves, we may see:
Tiered systems where dynamic charging is available only on high‑traffic freight corridors
Public‑private partnerships to fund electrified road segments
New business models for trucking companies integrating wireless EV fleets
Combination of wireless charging and autonomous driving to optimize logistics
In time, wireless charging could become a distributed part of interstate freight systems — just as rest areas, weigh stations, and traditional fueling stations are today.
How Allcom Can Help as Technology Advances
As trucking enters a technological future — from electrification and wireless charging to autonomy and AI‑driven logistics — staying ahead of risks and compliance requirements will be vital. Allcom Insurance is positioned to help your fleet adapt with coverage and guidance that matches the evolving landscape.
Whether you’re considering transitioning to electric vehicles, exploring new powertrain technologies, or simply want to future‑proof your insurance coverage, Allcom can help you navigate:
Equipment and liability coverage for advanced vehicle platforms
Risk management strategies for new technology adoption
Compliance support for changing safety standards
Customized insurance that protects drivers, assets, and emerging operations
For insight on how these technological advancements affect your fleet’s risk profile or to evaluate your coverage options, contact Allcom Insurance at 866‑277‑9049 or email info@allcomins.com.