Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation have introduced three new temperature control technologies aimed at enhancing passenger comfort and improving energy efficiency in vehicles. These innovations were unveiled during the “Heat Tech Day” event held in Seoul, South Korea, showcasing the companies’ latest advancements in managing vehicle interior climates.
As vehicles increasingly serve as more than just modes of transportation, Hyundai and Kia are focusing on creating a more comfortable and energy-efficient driving experience. The three technologies presented are designed to meet the evolving demands of modern mobility, especially as the industry shifts toward electrification.
Nano cooling film: A cooler interior by over 12°C
One of the key technologies introduced is the Nano Cooling Film, which is designed to lower the interior temperature of vehicles, particularly in hot weather. This advanced material can be applied to vehicle glass, where it blocks infrared radiation from entering the vehicle while allowing excess heat to escape.
During tests, vehicles equipped with the Nano Cooling Film recorded interior temperatures that were over 12°C cooler than those without the film. This significant reduction in temperature can enhance passenger comfort and reduce the need for extensive air conditioning, ultimately saving energy.
Hyundai and Kia have already showcased this technology in various markets, including Pakistan, where tinting is prohibited. The film was installed on 70 vehicles as part of the “Made Cooler by Hyundai” campaign, receiving positive feedback from residents.
Radiant heating system: Quick and efficient warmth
The Radiant Heating System is another breakthrough technology introduced by Hyundai and Kia. This system is designed to quickly warm passengers during cold weather by emitting radiant heat towards the lower body, particularly the legs.
The Radiant Heating System works alongside the vehicle’s existing heating systems, offering up to 17% more energy efficiency. It reaches the desired temperature within three minutes, significantly improving comfort during winter drives. Additionally, this system can help extend the driving range of electric vehicles by reducing the energy consumed for climate control.
Hyundai and Kia plan to incorporate this technology into future vehicle models, with the Radiant Heating System already featured in Kia’s EV9.
Metal-coated heated glass: Enhanced visibility and safety
The third innovation is the Metal-Coated Heated Glass, a world-first 48V system designed to quickly defrost and remove moisture from vehicle windshields. Unlike traditional tungsten wire heating elements, this technology offers faster and more energy-efficient defrosting, ensuring a clear and unobstructed view for drivers.
The system can defrost glass surfaces within five minutes, even at temperatures as low as -18°C, using 10% less energy than conventional air-conditioning systems. In hot weather, the metal coating can block over 60% of solar energy, reducing the cooling demands of the vehicle’s interior.
Hyundai and Kia have filed patents for this technology in multiple markets and plan to implement it in upcoming vehicle models.
These temperature control technologies reflect Hyundai and Kia’s commitment to enhancing the driving experience while addressing the energy efficiency needs of the future. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, such innovations will play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of vehicles.
