Concept image of EVs receiving electric power from roads while driving (Source: Materials from JST Research and Development Program for Future Creation)

Fujimoto Laboratory of the Graduate School of Frontier Sciences at the University of Tokyo, NSK Ltd., and Bridgestone Corporation recently announced the expansion of a joint research and development program for future creation spearheaded by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST). NSK and Bridgestone have been participating in the project since last year. The expanded efforts include a new agreement on the handling of basic patents resulting from the project, and an aggressive commitment to develop practical wireless charging systems for in-wheel motors installed in electric vehicles (EVs).

The project is aiming at creating game-changing technologies based on new ideas and scientific breakthroughs to contribute to the realization of a more sustainable society that emits minimal amounts of CO2. The current phase of the project is set to run from 2018 to 2022 under the JST research theme of addressing the global need to realize a low-carbon society.

Of Japan's total CO2 emissions (1,227 million tons a year), 15% (184.5 million tons a year) is attributable to emissions from automobiles. Automobile manufacturers around the world have been promoting the development and adoption of EVs in response to this trend and Europe is expected to roll out regulations on CO2 emissions from automobiles in 2020*. Given these trends and anticipated demand for electric vehicles, it is possible a shortage of batteries for electric vehicles may happen in the near future. The JST project seeks to develop new technologies that will ensure sufficient driving distance for EVs with fewer batteries by installing motors inside EV wheels that are able to receive electric power directly from roads when driving or stopping. If realized, this system would address future battery shortages while also helping reduce the weight of EVs.

In this research and development project, the University of Tokyo is responsible for the formulation and iteration of the concept of wireless charging in-motion for in-wheel motors as well as for the research and development of fundamental technologies. NSK will oversee the development of in-wheel motors that are more easily incorporated into vehicles by utilizing technologies cultivated through previous in-wheel motor projects. They also will explore possible methods of installing the necessary wireless charging infrastructure into society. Bridgestone will lead the tire development process to foster the highly efficient supply of electricity to in-wheel motors during charging by the technology of the material for tires.

The future schedule for this project includes the design, prototyping, and verification of in-wheel motors and eventually the production of vehicles equipped with motors. By 2022, the project aims to test this system in vehicles equipped with newly developed tires. As a wide range of input from organizations and companies is incorporated into this system, the project team will move forward with development, targeting a transition to the verification testing phase by 2025.

The University of Tokyo, NSK, and Bridgestone have agreed to leave the basic patent rights associated with this project open. Accordingly, an intellectual property framework which corporations and organizations approved by the project steering committee will be able to use rights-protected technologies with license free will be established. Providing access to these technologies will facilitate open innovation that goes beyond the confines of the current joint research project. Through this project, The University of Tokyo, NSK and Bridgestone aim to contribute to the realization of a sustainable mobility society by promoting open innovation and merging technologies to improve the way people and goods move.

*Source: R&D Plan based on core JST research theme of "Realization of a low carbon society through game changing technologies"

About NSK Ltd.:
NSK started its journey manufacturing the first bearings in Japan in 1916, and has since developed into a global organization researching, designing, and manufacturing Motion & Control(tm) solutions supporting essential mobility and industry applications. www.nsk.com for more information.

About Bridgestone Corporation:
Bridgestone Corporation, headquartered in Tokyo, is the world’s largest tire and rubber company. In addition to tires for use in a wide variety of applications, it also manufactures a broad range of diversified products, which include industrial rubber and chemical products and sporting goods. Its products are sold in over 150 nations and territories around the world.

Bridgestone Americas

Bridgestone Americas

Nashville, Tennessee-based Bridgestone Americas, Inc. (BSAM) is the U.S. subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation, the world’s largest tire and rubber company. BSAM and its subsidiaries develop, manufacture and market a wide range of Bridgestone, Firestone and associate brand tires to address the needs of a broad range of customers, including consumers, automotive and commercial vehicle original equipment manufacturers, and those in the agricultural, forestry and mining industries. The companies are engaged in retreading operations throughout the Western Hemisphere and produce air springs, roofing materials, and industrial fibers and textiles. The BSAM family of companies also operates the world’s largest chain of automotive tire and service centers. Guided by its global corporate social responsibility commitment, Our Way to Serve, the company is dedicated to improving the way people live, work, move and play in all of the communities it calls home.

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Understanding that Serving Society with Superior Quality is our heritage and our mission, and embracing our responsibility to future generations as a global leader in our industries, Bridgestone and its teammates around the world employ innovation and technology to improve the way people move, live, work and play.

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Through innovative technology, Bridgestone is committed to providing easier, safer, smoother and more seamless mobility for its customers. Building on the enthusiasm of its employees to connect with people worldwide, the company is also focused on building safer and healthier communities, and improving access to education. With regard to the environment, Bridgestone continues to work toward a sustainable society by operating in harmony with nature, valuing natural resources, and reducing carbon dioxide emissions.

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