Hanon Systems, renowned worldwide for its leadership in automotive thermal solutions, has unveiled the world’s first fourth generation heat pump system alongside its innovative Thin HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technology.
It can be a significant step towards revolutionizing electric vehicle (EV) thermal management.
“Through close collaboration with our client, we were able to proactively develop the world’s first new technology,” said Yoon Ho Wang, Vice President of AP Innovation Center, Hanon Systems Research Institute.
As per the company, the fourth generation heat pump system has been commercially available since July.
“This fourth generation heat pump system was first implemented in the Kia EV3 in South Korea, and the company will expand production to the U.S. and Europe,” stated Hanon Systems in the press release.
Fourth generation heat pump system
The newly developed heat pump system is a major breakthrough in how EVs manage temperature.
The system employs a distinctive method by simultaneously recovering heat from various sources, including the motor, battery, and ambient air.
This reclaimed heat, which would otherwise be lost, is repurposed to both warm and cool the cabin while also maintaining the battery at its optimal operating temperature.
“By continually refining our heat pump system design to improve efficiency and reduce power consumption requirements, Hanon Systems has contributed to extending EV driving range,” highlighted Subu Nagasubramony, co-CEO of Hanon Systems.
Use of patented technologies
This new cutting-edge heat pump system has been designed with a modular structure that incorporates several patented or patent-pending technologies.
A standout feature is how the Refrigerant Control Module (RCM) and Coolant Control Module (CCM) are combined into a single, unified control unit. By merging these components, the system achieves smoother and more efficient management of the entire thermal setup, enhancing both performance and energy efficiency.
Hanon Systems has been working on the new heat pump system since 2015. They were the first to mass-produce heat pump systems that could recover and reuse waste heat. This was a major step in improving EV efficiency.
In addition to the revolutionary heat pump system, Hanon Systems also introduced Thin HVAC technology, another industry first.
It significantly downsizes the overall HVAC system size by approximately 30%. This reduction in size directly translates to an increased legroom for passengers and a more comfortable driving environment.
“We are pleased to contribute to improving the driving experience of our customers’ electric vehicle users,” emphasized Wang.
Shaping the future of EVs
Through continuous innovation and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of thermal management, Hanon Systems is playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of electric vehicles.
Their advancements are not only making EVs more efficient and extending their range but also ensuring that the driving experience is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
“As the world’s second-largest thermal management company, we will continue to strive for ‘lightweight’ and ‘high-efficiency’ components through continuous innovation,” concluded Nagasubramony.
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