Quick Takeaways
- Improves EV cabin heating efficiency by shifting from air heating to targeted radiant surfaces.
- Cuts auxiliary power consumption, helping extend driving range without compromising comfort or safety.
In-vehicle radiant heater technology has taken a significant step forward as Sumitomo Riko Company Limited confirmed the start of contract manufacturing for a newly developed automotive heating solution. The production supports next-generation vehicle thermal systems aimed at improving efficiency, comfort, and safety, especially in electric vehicles.
The in-vehicle radiant heater is being produced under a manufacturing arrangement where assembly and precision machining are handled at a dedicated group manufacturing site specializing in automotive interior components. This facility is equipped to support advanced thermal technologies that align with evolving vehicle electrification needs.
How In-Vehicle Radiant Heater Technology Works
Unlike conventional HVAC systems that heat the entire cabin air volume, an in-vehicle radiant heater focuses on warming surfaces within the vehicle. These heated surfaces emit radiant energy that directly warms occupants, allowing targeted comfort without excessive energy use.
Key functional advantages include:
This approach significantly lowers overall climate-control energy consumption, which is critical for electric vehicles where auxiliary power use directly impacts driving range.
Efficiency Benefits for Electric Vehicles
By minimizing reliance on traditional cabin heating, the in-vehicle radiant heater helps preserve battery energy. Lower HVAC load translates into improved range performance, particularly in colder operating conditions where heating demand is high.
Key EV-focused benefits include:
These benefits support broader industry goals of maximizing EV efficiency without compromising user experience.
Safety-Centric Heater Design
The heater system is engineered with occupant safety as a core requirement. Even if direct contact occurs, the surface temperature is designed to decrease instantly, preventing discomfort or injury. This rapid temperature response ensures safe operation across varied driving scenarios and passenger interactions.
By combining energy efficiency, targeted thermal comfort, and advanced safety design, the in-vehicle radiant heater represents a practical innovation supporting the transition toward more efficient and user-focused electric mobility solutions.
The in-vehicle radiant heater is being produced under a manufacturing arrangement where assembly and precision machining are handled at a dedicated group manufacturing site specializing in automotive interior components. This facility is equipped to support advanced thermal technologies that align with evolving vehicle electrification needs.
How In-Vehicle Radiant Heater Technology Works
Unlike conventional HVAC systems that heat the entire cabin air volume, an in-vehicle radiant heater focuses on warming surfaces within the vehicle. These heated surfaces emit radiant energy that directly warms occupants, allowing targeted comfort without excessive energy use.
Key functional advantages include:
- Direct heat transfer to occupants instead of circulating warm air
- Faster perception of warmth during vehicle startup
- Reduced dependency on high-power air-conditioning systems
This approach significantly lowers overall climate-control energy consumption, which is critical for electric vehicles where auxiliary power use directly impacts driving range.
Efficiency Benefits for Electric Vehicles
By minimizing reliance on traditional cabin heating, the in-vehicle radiant heater helps preserve battery energy. Lower HVAC load translates into improved range performance, particularly in colder operating conditions where heating demand is high.
Key EV-focused benefits include:
- Extended driving range through reduced power draw
- Improved thermal efficiency during low-temperature operation
- Enhanced passenger comfort with localized heating
These benefits support broader industry goals of maximizing EV efficiency without compromising user experience.
Safety-Centric Heater Design
The heater system is engineered with occupant safety as a core requirement. Even if direct contact occurs, the surface temperature is designed to decrease instantly, preventing discomfort or injury. This rapid temperature response ensures safe operation across varied driving scenarios and passenger interactions.
By combining energy efficiency, targeted thermal comfort, and advanced safety design, the in-vehicle radiant heater represents a practical innovation supporting the transition toward more efficient and user-focused electric mobility solutions.
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