WiTricity, the industry pioneer in highly resonant wireless power transfer over distance, announced an intellectual property license agreement with TDK Corporation, a leading global supplier of electronic systems, components, and materials.
This licensing agreement will enable TDK to commercialize WiTricity’s patented technology to create efficient and high performance wireless charging systems for carmakers, allowing next generation electric vehicles and PHEVs to charge effortlessly by simply parking over a TDK wireless charging pad.
TDK has long been a leader in providing electronic materials and components essential to modern wireless charging systems. In particular, TDK is known as the world’s leading producer of electronic components based on advanced ferrites, a vital material for harnessing magnetic fields, and has a large and rapidly growing business as a Tier 1 and Tier 2 supplier in the automotive industry.
Under this IP license agreement, TDK will be able to offer wireless charging systems to carmakers for future rechargeable hybrid electric and battery electric vehicles. In addition, TDK is licensed to offer compatible automotive wireless charging sources for home, commercial, and public use.
WiTricity’s technology delivers electric power safely over distance and eliminates the need for charging cables required by EVs and PHEVs currently on the market. Carmakers around the world have identified wireless charging as a key differentiator in the marketplace because of the convenience it offers vehicle owners. International standards for wireless charging systems are being developed by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), with the goal of ensuring interoperability of wireless charging systems and EVs/PHEVs on a global basis.
“There is widespread recognition that wireless charging will be central to the growth of the electric vehicle market,” said WiTricity CEO Alex Gruzen. “We are proud to help advance the market for wireless charging with such an accomplished partner as TDK.”