Electric Roads and the Future of Intercity Transportation

Germany is testing a new system of electrified road transportation that will enable battery-powered trucks to recharge while driving.

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Power lines are being built over a 10km stretch of highway near Frankfurt. Trucks with hybrid engines will be able to connect to these power lines for propulsion and battery recharging.

There will be a number of hurdles to overcome before this technology sees widespread deployment, including:

  • how truck companies will pay for the energy used
  • how to affordably add the connecting mechanism to new and existing trucks
  • how to overcome the maximum speed of 90 km/h

However, this idea seems like a promising solution to an industry heavily dependent upon fossil fuels. I look forward to following the progress of this test.

Does this seem like a feasible option to you? Add your thoughts to the comments below.