A technology has been developed that can effectively improve the driving range and stability of electric vehicles.
On the 23rd, Hyundai and Kia unveiled the ‘Active Air Skirt (AAS)’ technology, which minimizes air resistance generated during high-speed driving.
AAS operates variably according to the vehicle’s speed, controlling the airflow generated through the lower bumper to effectively manage vortices around the vehicle’s wheels during high-speed driving.
As the era of electric vehicles dawns, the competition to secure better driving ranges with a single charge has intensified, making the relationship between cars and aerodynamics increasingly significant. Moreover, aerodynamic performance significantly affects dynamic performance, driving safety, and driving noise (wind noise).
Manufacturers are therefore exploring various ways to reduce air resistance coefficients, also known as drag coefficients (Cd), which act against the vehicle’s direction of travel.
The AAS developed by Hyundai and Kia is mounted between the front bumper and the front wheels, hidden during normal operation, and activates at speeds above 80 km/h when air resistance exceeds rolling resistance, retracting again at 70 km/h. The difference in deployment and retraction speed is designed to prevent frequent operation within certain speed ranges.
The reason AAS does not completely cover the front and only covers the area in front of the tires is related to the uniqueness of the E-GMP platform. The flat floor of the platform makes it more effective for aerodynamic improvement to cover only the tire area.
Additionally, this can help enhance the downforce, which is the force that pushes the vehicle towards the ground, improving tire grip and high-speed driving stability.
The AAS can operate at speeds of over 200 km/h. The application of rubber material at the bottom reduces the risk of damage from external objects during high-speed driving while ensuring robust integration.
Hyundai and Kia have tested this technology on the Genesis GV60, achieving a reduction of 0.008 in Cd value, improving drag by 2.8%. This figure translates to an expected increase of about 6 km in cruising range.
Hyundai and Kia have applied for related patents in Korea and the U.S. and plan to review mass production after durability and performance testing.
A representative from Hyundai and Kia stated, “This technology is expected to have a greater effect on models like SUVs, where it is challenging to enhance aerodynamic performance. We will continue to strive to improve electric vehicle driving performance and stability through aerodynamic performance enhancements.”
Meanwhile, to achieve a competitive drag coefficient, Hyundai and Kia are applying various technologies to their vehicles, including design elements, rear spoilers, active air flaps, wheel air curtains, wheel gap reducers, and shedding traps. The Hyundai Ioniq 6, incorporating these technologies, has achieved a global leading Cd of 0.21.
Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr