On the 23rd of January 2024, Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation unveiled the revolutionary ‘Active Air Skirt’ (AAS) technology. This groundbreaking innovation aims to diminish aerodynamic resistance experienced at high speeds, ultimately bolstering the driving range and stability of electric vehicles (EVs). The AAS system operates by regulating the airflow beneath the bumper, effectively managing the turbulence around the vehicle wheels as the car accelerates to high speeds.
In today’s electric vehicle market, the demand for an extended driving range on a single charge has become increasingly competitive. Consequently, the relationship between vehicle design and aerodynamics has never been more crucial. Aerodynamic performance not only affects the power and efficiency of electric cars but also impacts aspects such as driving stability and wind noise.
To combat these challenges, manufacturers are exploring methods to enhance the aerodynamic profile of their vehicles, with a particular focus on reducing the coefficient of drag (Cd) – an indicator of air resistance when a vehicle is in motion.
The ‘Active Air Skirt’ technology is strategically positioned between the front bumper and the front wheels of the vehicle, remaining concealed during regular driving conditions. However, it automatically activates when the vehicle reaches speeds over 80 km/h, retracting at 70 km/h to avoid unnecessary operation within specific speed ranges. This dynamic operation ensures that the aerodynamic performance is optimized for high-speed travel without impeding the vehicle’s functionality during lower speed ranges.
The design of the AAS system, which selectively covers only the front part of the tires, is specifically tailored to maximize aerodynamic performance while leveraging the flat structure of the Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP platform for EVs. This strategic approach not only improves aerodynamic efficiency but also contributes to generating better vehicle traction and high-speed stability.
Significantly, the AAS technology is engineered to operate effectively at speeds exceeding 200 km/h, incorporating robust rubber materials to protect against external object damage and ensuring durability at high speeds. In their most recent trials with the Genesis GV60, Hyundai Motor and Kia reduced the drag coefficient (Cd) by 0.008, constituting a 2.8% improvement in drag and a potential 6 km increase in driving range.
Following successful testing, Hyundai Motor and Kia have filed for patents in South Korea and the United States. They are now planning mass production following rigorous durability and performance assessments. Sun Hyung Cho, Vice President and Head of Mobility Body Development Group at Hyundai Motor Group, expressed optimism about the impact of AAS technology, particularly in the context of improving the aerodynamic performance of SUVs. Cho reiterated the companies’ commitment to advancing the driving performance and stability of electric vehicles through continual enhancements in aerodynamics.
Moreover, Hyundai and Kia are implementing a range of cutting-edge technologies, including rear spoilers, active air flaps, wheel air curtains, wheel gap reducers, and separation traps, in their vehicles to secure competitive drag coefficients. Notably, the Hyundai IONIQ 6, which incorporates these technologies, has achieved a leading global Cd of 0.21.
Hyundai Motor Group is a global enterprise with an extensive value chain encompassing mobility, steel, construction, logistics, finance, and IT services. As a collective entity, the Group’s mobility brands comprise Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis. With approximately 250,000 employees worldwide, the Group is committed to driving positive change through innovative thinking, collaborative communication, and a readiness to tackle new challenges, ultimately striving towards a better future for all.
For those desiring further information about Hyundai Motor and its product range, additional details can be found at: http://www.hyundaimotorgroup.com. Alternatively, you can explore the Newsroom: Media Hub by Hyundai, Kia Global Media Center, and Genesis Global Newsroom for comprehensive insights into the latest developments.
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