Volvo builds full-size Scalextric track for electric cars

One of the reasons the uptake of electric cars continues to be so slow is that batteries are expensive and take a long time to recharge, but electrified roads could offer a solution.

Volvo is well known for ground-breaking innovation. It was the first car maker to introduce modern seat belts and more recently it has developed vehicles that can detect pedestrians and cyclists and slow themselves down automatically if necessary. But it’s most recent project is perhaps it’s most ambitious; a life-size Scalextric track to power electric lorries.

Volvo believes that power lines built into the surface of the road could be a future solution for long-distance trucks and buses running on electricity, and would do away with the need for heavy, expensive and environmentally-damaging batteries.

Like a large-scale version of the popular kids’ slot racing game, Volvo’s approach involves two power lines built into the surface of the entire length of the road. A current collector in contact with the power lines will be located on the truck.

“With this method, electric vehicles could be continuously supplied with power without carrying large batteries,” says Mats Alaküla. “The power line will be built in sections and one section is only live as the truck passes.”

Last year, Volvo built a 400-meter long track at its testing facility in Hällered outside Gothenburg. The company has been testing the system since last autumn.