Grupo Antolin has developed an intelligent thermal comfort system for electric vehicles with a greater energy efficiency that will enable electric vehicles to both better maintain their driving range and keep the occupants warm.
As the company explains, in cars, the propulsion systems are the major energy consumers. However, the second biggest drain on the energy in an electric vehicle is the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. In fact, under adverse winter conditions and demanding driving situations, turning on the heating in the passenger compartment can reduce vehicle range by up to 60%.
Grupo Antolin has now developed an efficient solution based on infrared radiation. Radiation in the infrared spectrum is used to provide a targeted and personalised heating source to passengers at a given distance without the waste of energy involved in heating all the air inside the cabin.
The system, developed following a considerable research trajectory, involves integrating heating elements in the surfaces of the interior parts. By combining simulations adapted to the different environments and optimising the management of the heating elements, Grupo Antolin has now managed to significantly increase the comfort level and energy efficiency of the system, while reducing heating-related energy consumption by up to 70%, depending on the use case.
Moreover, infrared heating produces no noise and reduces odours and discomfort associated with airflows. A high level of customisation is achievable, as it can be easily adapted to the different occupants of the cabin.
The system can also be deployed in vehicles powered by combustion engines.