Dynamic wireless charging allows electric vehicles (EVs) to charge while in motion, helping to reduce range anxiety and the need for large, expensive batteries. However, this technology faces challenges with output voltage and power fluctuations as the vehicle moves, which can reduce battery lifespan and charging efficiency.
Meet Ph.D. candidate Milad Behnamfar from the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, whose research focuses on making dynamic wireless charging more reliable and efficient. In his dissertation, Milad developed new strategies to keep the power flow stable as an electric vehicle moves over charging infrastructure. He also designed innovative control methods on the vehicle side and introduced a combined inductive and capacitive power transfer approach, which together help maintain consistent charging performance. Milad holds a patent for this work.
His research has the potential to significantly advance the adoption of electric vehicles by reducing range anxiety and lowering the cost barrier associated with large batteries. For society, this means greater access to cleaner transportation options and a reduction in air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. In industry, Milad’s innovations can drive the development of scalable wireless charging infrastructure, opening new markets and encouraging investment in sustainable technologies. For the academic and engineering community, his work provides novel solutions and design methodologies that push the boundaries of wireless power transfer systems.
Milad’s inspiration for this research comes from his passion for the electric vehicle industry. Fascinated by the potential of dynamic wireless charging to transform transportation, he dedicated his research to overcoming the key challenges that currently limit its widespread use.
Expected to graduate in December 2025, Milad’s work highlights the promise of dynamic wireless charging as a practical and scalable solution for the future of sustainable transportation.