As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to increase in popularity, the ability to maximise the driving range from a single charge has become a top priority for many manufacturers. This has led to a focus on enhancing the aerodynamic efficiency of the vehicle, with Hyundai and Kia revealing their latest technology – the “Active Air Skirt” (AAS).
AAS minimises the aerodynamic resistance generated during high-speed driving to improve the driving range and stability of EVs. It does this by controlling the flow of air entering through the lower part of the bumper and effectively controls the turbulence generated around the vehicle wheels by operating variably according to the vehicle speed.
AAS is installed between the front bumper and the front wheels of the vehicle and is hidden during normal operation, but kicks in at speeds over 80 km/h when the aerodynamic resistance becomes greater than the rolling resistance and is stored again at 70 km/h.
AAS can also operate at speeds over 200 km/h. This was possible thanks to the application of rubber material on the lower part, which reduces the risk of external objects splashing and damaging while driving at high speeds.
Hyundai and Kia announced that they have tested and reduced the drag coefficient (Cd) by 0.008, improving drag by 2.8 percent, by installing AAS in Genesis GV60. This is a figure that can expect an additional range improvement of about 6 km.
Hyundai and Kia have applied for related patents in South Korea and the United States, and plan to consider mass production after durability and performance tests.
Source: Hyundai Motor Company Australia | Hyundai Motor and Kia Unveil ‘Active Air Skirt’ technology to help electric vehicles go faster and further
24 January 2024