French startup advances wireless charging for EVs

A French startup named Up&charge is developing wireless charging technology for electric vehicles, focusing on private and public fleets rather than individual consumers. The company showcased its system at the 2026 Paris Motor Show, aiming to improve efficiency and convenience in commercial and fleet operations.

System uses ground-based charging station

The system features a ground-based charging station shaped like a Berlin couch, a kit installed under the vehicle's chassis, and wireless energy transmission without cables. The station includes a removable mechanism to ensure optimal efficiency, with the company claiming only 5% energy loss, significantly lower than the 10% to 30% loss seen in traditional slow AC charging.

Three power levels for different uses

Up&charge offers three power levels: a flagship 24 kW direct current (DC) station available for order, a 7 kW DC version planned for June 2027, and a 100 kW solution for heavy trucks. The system also includes a mobile application to locate, start, and monitor the charging process, with all data sent to a supervision platform for managing operating rules.

Wireless charging improves accessibility

Induction charging removes the risks of stolen or damaged cables and is fully adapted for people with reduced mobility. While contactless charging is not new, previous systems were limited in power and aimed at individuals. BMW tested a 3.2 kW system on its 530e plug-in hybrid in 2018, and Porsche introduced an 11 kW "Wireless Charging" system for its electric Cayenne. Up&charge's 24 kW DC station is designed for professional use, capable of charging from 20% to 80% in one hour and 15 minutes.

B2B focus with French manufacturing

Up&charge's business model targets the B2B market, with a pricing strategy designed to make greening professional vehicle fleets profitable. The technology is designed and assembled in France and has attracted large clients managing between 1,000 and 70,000 vehicles. The startup, celebrating its fifth anniversary, uses dedicated WhatsApp groups for each fleet it serves and plans to consider the individual market in a second phase.