By Eric Cohen, Marketing Manager
The Seoul Motor Show is an eye-opener. Not only because of all the new models becoming available but also because of all the new technologies. The one getting the most attention? Wireless charging!
During the 11-day event, more than 620,000 people will have the opportunity to view 270 different vehicles, including 39 debut models. One of those debut vehicles is the Hyundai Genesis GV60 – the first-ever all-electric vehicle to include factory-installed wireless charging from WiTricity. The Hyundai Motor Group previously demonstrated wireless charging technology at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show and has been a leader in moving the technology forward. The Genesis GV60 is the brand’s third SUV and first BEV.
The Hyundai Genesis GV60 features so many new features that Motorgraph, a car enthusiast publication in Korea, recently asked its readers what impressed them most about the new model. More than 10,000 people responded to the question and the clear #2 was wireless charging! This technology created a lot of excitement with readers exclaiming, “I am very excited about wireless charging,” “I am willing to buy an electric car if wireless charging is commercialized properly,” and more. So, you may ask, why #2 and not #1? The top spot went to the new safety Crystal Sphere.
One of the biggest changes at this year’s show (and at most car shows around the world) is the number of new electric vehicles. The auto industry’s revolutionary transition from gasoline-powered internal-combustion vehicles is accelerating at a blistering pace. More than 50 new electric cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs have already been announced for arrival by 2024 and beyond, but we’ll likely see many more than that. In fact, Automotive News magazine predicts that within three years, close to 100 electrified vehicles will be available in the North American market.
Helping encourage consumers to consider – and purchase – EVs is wireless charging. A new research study conducted by TideWatch Partners, an independent market research firm, finds that wireless charging significantly increases the likelihood of a consumer purchasing an EV in the U.S. For those already intending to purchase an EV, their likelihood to purchase increased 40% – from 60% to 84% – when presented with wireless charging as an alternative to plugging in. The increase was even greater – nearly 70% – for people less certain about purchasing an EV.
It’s no wonder Hyundai Genesis GV60’s wireless charging is getting so much attention. I can’t wait to see wireless charging exhibited on other models at shows around the world in 2022!
