Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation have unveiled their latest breakthrough in electric vehicle (EV) technology, introducing the “Active Air Skirt” (AAS) designed to enhance aerodynamic efficiency during high-speed driving. This innovative AAS technology is geared towards minimizing aerodynamic resistance, ultimately contributing to improved driving range and stability for EVs.
The AAS operates by effectively managing airflow beneath the vehicle, strategically controlling turbulence around the wheels during acceleration. Positioned discreetly between the front bumper and front wheels, the AAS remains inconspicuous during regular driving conditions but activates at speeds exceeding 80 km/h, precisely when aerodynamic resistance surpasses rolling resistance. It seamlessly reverts to a dormant state at 70 km/h, preventing unnecessary deployment during specific speed ranges.
The decision to concentrate AAS coverage exclusively on the front part of the tires, rather than the entire front end, aligns with the unique characteristics of Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP platform for EVs. This configuration, leveraging the flat platform floor, not only maximizes aerodynamic performance but also enhances downforce, thereby improving vehicle traction and high-speed stability.
A noteworthy feature of the AAS is its adaptability to high speeds, exceeding 200 km/h, facilitated by the application of rubber material on the lower part. This not only reduces the risk of damage from external debris but also ensures durability during high-speed driving.
In practical tests, Hyundai Motor and Kia achieved a remarkable reduction in the drag coefficient (Cd) by 0.008, translating to a 2.8 percent improvement in drag when implementing the AAS in the Genesis GV60. This enhancement is estimated to yield an additional range improvement of approximately 6 km.
Both companies have filed for patents related to AAS in South Korea and the United States, demonstrating their commitment to further development and potential mass production, pending successful durability and performance tests. Sun Hyung Cho, Vice President and Head of Mobility Body Development Group at Hyundai Motor Group, emphasized the technology’s potential impact on SUVs, where enhancing aerodynamic performance can be challenging. He expressed a continuous commitment to advancing the driving performance and stability of electric vehicles through aerodynamic improvements.
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Hyundai Motor and Kia continue to employ a comprehensive approach to achieving competitive drag coefficients across their vehicle lineup, incorporating various technologies such as rear spoilers, active air flaps, wheel air curtains, wheel gap reducers, and separation traps. The Hyundai IONIQ 6, embodying these advancements, has achieved a global leading Cd of 0.21.