Tesla’s wireless power delivery system may still be alive despite the company’s short-lived venture into it. German start-up Wiferion, which was acquired by Tesla earlier this year, has been sold to German-based Puls Power, a manufacturer of DIN rail power supplies. However, Wiferion’s engineers will remain with Tesla and are not included in the deal with Puls. This suggests that Tesla is still pursuing the idea of wirelessly charging electric vehicles (EVs), although it is unclear if Tesla-branded vehicles will be able to be charged wirelessly from a Tesla-branded power supply.
Back in 2015, Tesla showcased a prototype charging robot that could locate the charging port of the Model S, but the concept never made it into mass production. Then, during Tesla’s Investor Day event in March 2023, a teaser image of a wireless charging pad was shown briefly, demonstrating it charging the batteries of a Model S.
Wiferion’s acquisition by Tesla came after the start-up had begun a pilot program in the US through a licensing agreement with WiTricity. As part of the program, Wiferion modified several EVs, including a Tesla Model 3, to accept up to 11 kilowatts of wireless power from its Halo system.
In other charging news, Tesla’s wired Supercharger network recently reached a milestone of installing its 50,000th charging stall. Additionally, the company is currently installing the first V4 Supercharger stalls in the US, which are expected to offer over 250 kW of power.
Tesla, the renowned electric vehicle manufacturer, has recently acquired Wiferion, a German wireless charging startup. In a move that showcases Tesla’s commitment to advancing electric vehicle (EV) technology, the company has not only acquired the startup but has also retained its engineers. This strategic move seems to be aimed at bolstering Tesla’s expertise and capabilities in wireless charging technology, which has become increasingly popular in the rapidly evolving EV market.
The acquisition of Wiferion allows Tesla to tap into the extensive knowledge and experience of the startup’s engineers who have been at the forefront of wireless charging innovation. It is no secret that wireless charging has become a highly sought-after feature in the EV industry as it offers convenience, efficiency, and environmental sustainability. In line with its vision to revolutionize the transportation sector, Tesla is fully aware of the potential of wireless charging and the convenience it brings to EV owners.
By bringing Wiferion under its wing, Tesla gains access to their proprietary technology, ensuring that the company remains at the cutting edge of EV development. Wireless charging, which eliminates the need for physical cables, has the potential to transform the way electric vehicles are powered. The seamless and hassle-free charging experience provided by wireless charging systems aligns perfectly with Tesla’s commitment to providing a superior user experience.
The decision to retain Wiferion’s engineers is not only a testament to Tesla’s belief in their expertise but also indicates the company’s intention to channel their talents towards further innovation. Tesla has always been known for pushing the boundaries of EV technology, and this acquisition demonstrates their eagerness to explore new avenues for growth and development. By retaining the startup’s engineers, Tesla can leverage their knowledge, experience, and fresh perspectives to continue enhancing their product offerings and further advance the EV industry as a whole.
Furthermore, this acquisition consolidates Tesla’s position as a key player in the rapidly expanding wireless charging market. As more and more electric vehicle manufacturers embrace wireless charging technology, Tesla’s move to acquire a wireless charging startup positions them as a leader in the field. With their extensive expertise in EV manufacturing and now wireless charging, Tesla is well-positioned to set industry standards, driving the adoption of wireless charging on a global scale.
Overall, Tesla’s acquisition of the Wiferion wireless charging startup, while retaining its engineers, signals the company’s commitment to staying at the forefront of EV technology. This strategic move allows Tesla to tap into Wiferion’s expertise and proprietary technology, ensuring their continued dominance in the electric vehicle market. By embracing wireless charging, Tesla aims to provide customers with a more convenient and seamless charging experience, supporting their vision of a sustainable and eco-friendly future. As the wireless charging market continues to grow, this acquisition solidifies Tesla’s position as a dominant force in the EV industry, propelling it towards new realms of success and innovation.