Inductively coupled power transfer (ICPT) is a technology that is implemented to charge electric vehicles (EVs) wirelessly. Some developments from the past years indicate that this promising charging method has the potential to replace wired charging methods. Thus, some aspects of designing ICPT need to be discussed and considered to develop an optimal system. However, most reviews from the previous articles focused on the developments of ICPT systems in the scope of EV charging. This study not only reviews current developments and topical issues and challenges in high-power ICPT systems, but also presents several techniques for analysing the system as well as further developments for wireless EV charging adapted from the other electromagnetic field applications. This study will assist readers to analyse any proposed ICPT systems using current methods of analysis and to tackle highlighted topical issues presented from the previous technical papers. © The Institution of Engineering and Technology 2019.