What is the CARDHIN Project?

CARDHIN (Dynamic Inductive and Hydrogen Charging for Electric Vehicles Based on Renewable Sources) is an ambitious industrial research project aiming to develop an innovative charging system for electric vehicles. This system will enable on-the-move charging, primarily targeting heavy-duty freight transportation. 

Main Objective: Innovation in Dynamic Charging

The central goal of the project is to design and validate a functional prototype in a relevant environment (TRL 5) of a Dynamic Inductive Charging System on roads, capable of charging electric vehicles while they are in motion. 

Key Technologies Researched in CARDHIN

CARDHIN explores various technological areas to achieve its goals: 

• Inductive systems and antennas for dynamic charging.
• Advanced materials such as magnetized concrete.
• Optimized energy management. 
• Advanced communication systems for connected vehicles.
• Use of renewable hydrogen as an energy source for roads. 

The project also focuses on developing a holistic vision that considers: 

• Required infrastructure. 
• Total life cycle costs. 
• Component recyclability. 
• Environmental and economic impacts. 
• Solution resilience. 

Extending range is crucial for electric vehicles. CARDHIN proposes smart roads that: 

• Maintain battery charge while vehicles are in motion. 
• Reduce or eliminate charging stops, especially on high-traffic routes. 
• Optimize logistics for heavy-duty transportation, enabling longer trips with fewer interruptions. 

The project emphasizes long-distance heavy transportation, a critical sector for emission reductions. It also demonstrates great potential for urban and peri-urban environments by offering: 

1. Technological solutions for intensive-use electric vehicles. 
2. A significant step toward sustainable and smart mobility. 

Cost-Benefit Analysis and the Future of Autonomous Transport

CARDHIN will update cost-benefit analyses for various decarbonization alternatives, focusing on: 

• Immediate prospects of autonomous vehicles on highways. 
• Long-term sustainable infrastructure that minimizes impacts and maximizes benefits. 

The use of renewable hydrogen as a direct energy source for road infrastructure is another key focus. This will further reduce the environmental impact of electrifying highways and motorways.

The project aligns closely with the mission of “Sustainable and Smart Mobility”, promoting e-mobility models that contribute to emission reductions and facilitate the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. 

CARDHIN is funded by the Center for the Development of Industrial Technology (CDTI) under the CDTI Missions program. 

CARDHIN aims to position Spain at the forefront of dynamic charging technology, marking a milestone in sustainable transportation.