Stuttgart,Automotive supplier MAHLE has introduced a new cabin heat recovery system designed to reduce energy consumption for heating in electric vehicles and improve driving range in winter conditions.
The system, called HeatX Range+, reduces the energy demand of vehicle air conditioning systems by about 20 percent compared with conventional exhaust air systems, according to the company. MAHLE said the lower energy requirement allows electric vehicles to achieve greater range per battery charge while maintaining interior air quality.
Heating demand has a significant impact on electric vehicle efficiency, particularly in cold weather. MAHLE said testing conducted with a mid-size electric vehicle at an outside temperature of minus 7 degrees Celsius and an interior temperature of 20 degrees Celsius showed an increase in driving range of nearly 10 kilometers. The system also provides a continuous supply of fresh air, which helps reduce window fogging.
The HeatX Range+ system recovers heat from cabin exhaust air using the air conditioning evaporator. As warm air exits the vehicle, it transfers heat to the refrigerant, which then preheats incoming fresh air before it enters the cabin. This process reduces the amount of energy required for heating at low temperatures.
Martin Wellhoeffer, a member of the MAHLE Group Management Board responsible for Thermal and Fluid Systems, said the system is intended to improve the everyday usability of electric vehicles during winter and support wider adoption of electric mobility.
MAHLE said the system’s modular design allows it to be integrated into existing vehicle architectures with minimal changes. The system is designed for use with refrigerant R1234yf and can be adapted for alternative refrigerants with minor modifications.
