Nikola Tesla introduced the idea of wireless power transfer back in 1891. This idea has since been developed as a proof of concept using an electric bus by researchers at the University of California. The latest research is being carried out at Auckland University with on-going designs of wireless charging. One of the designs delivers 7kW of power with more than 90% efficiency at a distance of 20cm. This technology has the potential to change the way electric vehicles and many other applications operate.

Auckland University won the Prime Minister's Science Award for their work in wireless electrical charging this year. http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/auckland-engineers-win-top-prize-wireless-technology-5708251