Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation recently introduced three cutting-edge technologies aimed at precisely regulating vehicle interior temperature, enhancing passenger comfort, and improving energy efficiency. These innovations were showcased at the ‘Heat Tech Day’ event in Seoul, South Korea.
The event highlighted Hyundai Motor and Kia’s advancements in temperature control—a critical factor for passenger comfort. As vehicles transition from mere transportation to becoming more like living spaces, the need for advanced temperature control technologies has grown. These new technologies not only boost comfort but also contribute to energy savings, which is increasingly important in the age of electrification. The three key technologies presented were:
- Nano Cooling Film: This innovative material can significantly reduce interior temperatures in hot weather when applied to vehicle glass.
- Radiant Heating System: Designed to quickly and efficiently increase the perceived temperature around passengers in cold conditions.
- Metal-Coated Heated Glass: A world-first 48V system that rapidly heats the glass using an electrically powered metal coating, effectively removing frost and moisture.
In July 2023, Hyundai Motor and Kia demonstrated the effectiveness of Nano Cooling Film, a technology capable of substantially lowering vehicle interior temperatures. During tests, vehicles equipped with Nano Cooling Film showed an interior temperature reduction of up to 12.5°C compared to those with standard glass. This film not only blocks infrared radiation but also allows heat to escape, offering a significant cooling advantage.
The Nano Cooling Film can be applied alongside existing tinting films without affecting light transmission and was successfully tested in various environments, including a campaign in Pakistan where the film was installed on around 70 vehicles as tinting is legally restricted. The campaign received positive feedback, and the technology was later showcased at the Cannes Lions 2024, marking the first time Hyundai Motor led a technology seminar at the event.
Hyundai Motor and Kia also introduced the Radiant Heating System, designed to quickly warm passengers in winter. This system uses a heating element that emits radiant heat towards passengers’ legs, providing warmth within three minutes. The Radiant Heating System works in tandem with the vehicle’s existing heating system, potentially conserving up to 17% more energy, which is particularly beneficial for extending the driving range of electric vehicles in cold weather.
This system includes a high-temperature film-type heating element and a burn prevention system, ensuring safety by lowering the temperature upon detecting body contact. The Radiant Heating System will be integrated into future models, including Kia’s EV9.
The Metal-Coated Heated Glass technology offers a revolutionary way to remove frost and moisture from vehicle windshields during winter, improving visibility and safety. This 48V system can defrost the glass surface within five minutes, using around 10% less energy than conventional systems. Additionally, it passively blocks at least 60% of solar energy on hot days, reducing the cooling load and improving overall energy efficiency.
Hyundai Motor and Kia have applied for patents for this technology in major markets and plan to implement it in future vehicles.
