Breaking down Qualcomm's Halo system for automotive wireless charging

August 29, 2018 | Case Study

When it comes to automotive wireless charging, there are generally two different types of technologies: inductive power transfer (IPT) and coupled magnetic resonance. In induction systems, the coils must be closely positioned and aligned directly on top of each other; various consumer electronics, including electric toothbrushes and some cell phones, have inductive charging capabilities. However, the power transferred by these systems decays rapidly as distance between the device and charger increases. Therefore, while Qualcomm has been viewed as the leader in inductive wireless charging for vehicles since its acquisition of HaloIPT in 2011, its system's ability to charge over distances of more than a few centimeters in the Mercedes S-Class indicates a more advanced technology.