A team at the University of Auckland is making waves in the U.S. with a wireless electric vehicle charging technology.

Qualcomm and Lear Corporation, a global supplier of automotive seating and electrical systems have entered into a Wireless Electric Vehicle Charging license (WEVC) agreement.

Will Charles, GM for Technology and Development for UniServices, says the announcement represents a step towards clean, green electric vehicles being a common sight on our roads.

“We are really excited to see this development as it puts NZ technology on the map and will bring commercial benefits to the University through our partnership with Qualcomm, and represents another milestone in the relationship we have had with Qualcomm since 2011,” says Charles.

Two professors from UoA, John Boys and Grant Covic, actually pioneered wireless/inductive power transfer technology.

According to a company statement, to this day, their technology is used throughout the world, from factories that depend on automated systems of clean-room environments.

Qualcomm and Lear are collaborating on multiple WEVC production programmes across multiple car companies.

Steve Pazol, vice president and general manager for Wireless Charging at Qualcomm, says that they're very excited to be working so closely with lear as they commercialise Qualcomm Halo technology.

Frank Orsini, president with Lear Electrical, says the new deal is another window for opportunity.

“With our success in EV and hybrid high power systems and proven program management capabilities we see wireless charging as a new opportunity to serve our customers in further developing their strategies for EVs in existing and new vehicle segments.