Sweden is making headlines with a groundbreaking proposal to electrify a 13-mile section of its motorway network, allowing electric vehicles to charge while on the move without the need for stops. Set to be completed by 2025, this ambitious project marks the country's first permanent electric motorway.

The Swedish electric motorway, known as the "e-motorway," will span a stretch of the E20 motorway and pass through major cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmo. The concept behind this innovative infrastructure is to enable electric vehicles with continuous charging capabilities, eliminating the need for conventional charging stations. Three options are being considered for this mobile charging approach: overhead wires, underground wires, and conductive plates.

The use of conductive plates, also referred to as "induction charging," has been explored by Stellantis in Italy. However, in Sweden, the focus is primarily on industrial vehicles that cover long distances and require substantial energy and larger battery capacities. Nonetheless, the system's design can also cater to personal transportation needs.

While a 13-mile initial project may not seem extensive, it serves as a stepping stone for Sweden's broader plan to make 3,000km of its motorway network capable of mobile charging by 2035, as reported by Euronews.

One foreseeable challenge with mobile charging lies in the lack of standardization across different countries or regions. Variations in charging methods, such as overhead, underground, or conductive, could limit the feasibility for individuals whose vehicles are incompatible with specific charging infrastructure.

From a motorcycling perspective, the notion of overhead wires transmitting charge to motorcycles raises safety concerns, particularly for riders and passengers positioned below the charging apparatus. Inductive charging, where the infrastructure is integrated into the road surface and charges are transmitted upwards, might be a more suitable option for motorcycles. However, the size and vulnerability of the inductive plate attached to the bike need to be carefully considered, including contingency plans for plate replacement in the event of damage or loss during accidents.

While electric motorways offer limited benefits to electric motorcycles, which are predominantly used for commuting at present, it is likely that their relevance will increase in the future. However, motorcycles, driven by a passion for the open road, rely less on motorway mileage compared to cars. Consequently, traditional stationary charging infrastructure is expected to continue playing a more significant role in meeting the needs of electric motorcycles.