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Report: 100,000 Wireless Electric Cars Could Be Made By 2022

A subsequent test developed a compact system for use in an electric Kia Soul.

Mnet 46782 Kia Soul 700x418

The first electric vehicles equipped with wireless charging capabilities could debut next year, according to a recent analysis by IHS Automotive.

And by 2022, the Colorado-based research firm said, automakers could roll out 100,000 vehicles that would not need to be plugged into charging stations.

USA Today reports that a partnership between Korean carmakers Kia and Hyundai and wireless power company Mojo Mobility — funded in part by a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy — produced a transfer system with 85 percent efficiency between the electric grid and a vehicle.

A subsequent test developed a compact system for use in an electric Kia Soul, while a final testing phase will evaluate the system's reliability and safety.

Other companies involved in inductive charging research included Mercedes-Benz, General Motors and Tesla, according to the USA Today report.

Mercedes partnered with telecommunications giant Qualcomm, while GM purchased a company that produces wireless charging systems for smaller devices.

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