Founded in 2017, Arizona-based Aira wasted no time in proving its technology. We’ve written many times about the company’s wireless charging over the years, including the ‘FreePower’ technology it has incorporated into Nomad’s charging pads, which brings a more streamlined version of the discontinued AirPower. from Apple. The technology allows users to load up to three objects at a time, without having to worry about their precise placement on the pad.

Today, the startup announced that it has raised a funding round of $ 12 million, mainly led by private investors, including Jawad Ashan, Lori Greiner and Robert Herjavec. The funding will be used to expand the company’s reach beyond the charging of consumer devices, into the corporate, automotive and hospitality worlds, as well as the development of a version 2.0. of its charging technology.

“This new round of funding is a game-changer when it comes to accelerating our capacity for innovation,” Co-Founder and CEO Jake Slatnick said in a statement. “With so many partnerships in our pipeline, a version 2.0 of FreePower on the horizon and Jawad just joining our board of directors, this is an inflection point for Aira.”

Image credits: Aira

As we noted at the end of last year, Aira has already made strides in the automotive industry. Late last year, he announced funding from auto parts giant Motherson, which is also part of that cycle. The deal was a pretty clear indication that the company was pushing hard to integrate its wireless modules into cars – a welcome addition, as many automakers traditionally lacked user-friendly equipment for consumer electronics.

Neither side announced specific automotive partners then – or now, for that matter. But Aira notes that she and Motherson are teaming up to create automotive-grade FreePower modules.

Image credits: Aira

“Current wireless charging technology is not designed for moving environments, leaving consumers and automakers underestimated,” Aira said in a statement released today. “On-board charging pads with FreePower, on the other hand, are able to support devices that move while driving, charging multiple devices, surfaces of any size, and firmware updates for enhancements.” and future compatibility. They can also provide high power charging while maintaining strict safety and regulatory standards. “

The news also sees Axon’s CFO Jawad Ahsan joining Aria’s board of directors.