Auto interior supplier Grupo Antolin has developed an "intelligent" passenger heating system for electric vehicles that it says will allow EVs to both maintain driving range and keep occupants warm.
In cars, propulsion systems are the major energy consumers, the company said in a news release. 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 percent.
Grupo Antolin says it has developed an efficient heating solution based on infrared radiation. Radiation in the infrared spectrum is used to provide a targeted and personalized heating source directly to passengers 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 percent, depending on the use.
Infrared heating produces no noise and reduces odors and discomfort associated with airflows, the company said. A high level of customization 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.