Hanon Systems, a leading global supplier in automotive thermal management for electric vehicles, has launched its fourth-generation heat pump system, which plays a crucial role in managing thermal conditions in EVs. This new system has been commercially available since July and is now featured in Kia’s EV3 model in South Korea. Plans are in place to expand production to the U.S. and Europe.
Yoon Ho Wang, Vice-President of AP Innovation Center at Hanon Systems Research Institute, highlighted the company’s commitment to innovation, stating, “Our collaboration with clients has enabled us to develop this advanced technology, which significantly enhances the driving experience for electric vehicle users.”
The latest heat pump system from Hanon Systems is notable for its use of a parallel heat source recovery method. It recycles waste heat from the motor, battery, and external air, using it for both heating and cooling, as well as managing battery temperatures. This approach significantly extends the driving range of electric vehicles.
The system’s modular design features newly patented technologies and combines the Refrigerant Control Module (RCM) and Coolant Control Module (CCM) into a single control unit, enabling comprehensive thermal management.
Subu Nagasubramony, co-CEO of Hanon Systems, commented on the company’s ongoing efforts to improve efficiency and reduce energy consumption, contributing to longer EV driving ranges. As the second-largest thermal management company globally, Hanon Systems is committed to developing lightweight and high-efficiency components through continuous innovation.
Hanon Systems has been a pioneer in heat pump technology, with the mass production of systems featuring waste heat recovery starting in 2015. The company introduced a second-generation system in 2018, which added battery thermal management to enhance EV range. In 2021, the third generation was launched, incorporating an 800V electric compressor that significantly reduced EV charging times.
In addition to the heat pump system, Hanon Systems has introduced Thin HVAC technology, which reduces the overall size of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems by approximately 30%. This reduction provides more legroom for passengers by minimizing the space required for the HVAC system under the dashboard.
