BMW Wireless Charging is here and is set to be introduced on the new BMW 5 Series 530e iPerformance. The technology (which was previewed earlier this year) allows energy transfer to take place without the use of cables. The concept is that drivers can drive into their parking spot (garage etc) and over the charging pad. From there the car automatically begins the charging process eliminating the need to plug and unplug the car daily.

BMW Wireless Charging
BMW Wireless Charging in action with the BMW 530e iPerformance

Wireless charging for the high-voltage battery will be made available as an option for the BMW 530e iPerformance from 2018 onward. The system consists of a base pad with integrated primary coil – which can be installed in a garage, for example, but also outdoors – and a secondary coil integrated in the underside of the vehicle. An alternating magnetic field is generated between the two coils, through which electricity is transmitted without cables or contacts at a charge rate of up to 3.2 kW. A full charge for the 530e should take around three-and-a-half hours. Pricing will be announced closer to launch in early 2018.