Hanon Systems has unveiled results from its internal testing of a heat pump designed to address winter driving range issues for electric vehicles with low power consumption.
Simulating winter weather conditions with temperatures of -20°C and -7°C, Hanon Systems conducted comparative evaluations against competitor vehicles, proving high efficiency in terms of passenger comfort and driving range.
Vehicles equipped with Hanon System’s heat pump demonstrated air discharge temperatures approximately 9 degrees higher than competing products within just 20 minutes of testing in both environments, significantly increasing passenger comfort by raising indoor temperatures more quickly. Additionally, in both -20°C and -7°C conditions, the vehicles consumed 28% and 40% less power, respectively, positively impacting driving range.
Dr. Ulli Stühec, CTO of Hanon Systems, stated, “The heat pump is establishing itself as main technology for electric vehicles, as it effectively maintains range during winter when heating is required for both passengers and battery temperature.” He added, “Hanon Systems is playing a leading role in supplying heat pump products in the electric vehicle thermal management sector.”
According to a recent report by the Ministry of Environment, the top four vehicles in terms of driving range performance were all equipped with Hanon Systems heat pump systems, exhibiting over 90% performance when comparing conditions with heaters turned on at -7°C (low temperature) and 25°C (room temperature).
Dr. Stühec commented, “Hanon Systems has proven its ability to provide heat pump solutions with excellent heating performance and energy efficiency, which is based on our technical expertise and the trust of our clients.” He added, “As electric vehicles evolve, we anticipate a proactive involvement in developing thermal management solutions, including the use of eco-friendly refrigerants, to meet the demands of the market.”
In the early 2000s, Hanon Systems began collaborating with global OEMs for preliminary system design and program development, achieving mass production of the first-generation heat pump system in 2014. Recently, they have introduced components designed for R744 using eco-friendly refrigerants, making them the first in the industry to offer an 800V (high voltage) electric compressor.
Contact: Sang-jin Lee daedusj@autodiary.kr