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Hyundai & Kia unveil Active Air Skirt tech, improves EV performance and range

Hyundai and Kia have developed a new ‘Active Air Skirt’ (AAS) technology, aimed at minimising turbulence during high-speed driving. This is set to improve range and performance.

Positioned between the front bumper and the front wheels, AAS discreetly operates variably based on vehicle speed, improving driving range and stability for its E-GMP-based electric vehicles.

Genesis GV60 Active Air Skirt AAS technology

In an era where maximising driving range from a single charge is paramount, AAS is designed to improve aerodynamics and EV efficiency. By controlling the flow of air entering the lower part of the bumper, AAS effectively manages turbulence around the vehicle wheels during high-speed driving, contributing to enhance both performance and driving stability.

The technology deploys at speeds over 80km/h when aerodynamic resistance surpasses rolling resistance. The subsequent storage at 70km/h prevents unnecessary operation within specific speed ranges, optimising efficiency.

Notably, AAS not only reduces drag but also enhances downforce, subsequently improving vehicle traction and high-speed stability. Tested on the Genesis GV60, the company says the technology achieved a drag coefficient reduction of 0.008, translating to a 2.8 per cent improvement in drag and an estimated additional range of approximately 6km.

Hyundai and Kia have filed patents for AAS in South Korea and the United States, contemplating mass production pending durability and performance tests. Sun Hyung Cho, vice president and head of Mobility Body Development Group at Hyundai Motor Group, said:

“This technology is expected to have a greater effect on models such as SUVs where it is difficult to improve aerodynamic performance. We will continue to strive to improve the driving performance and stability of electric vehicles through improvements in aerodynamics.”

Brett Davis

Brett started out as a motor mechanic but eventually became frustrated working on cars that weren't his. He then earned a degree in journalism and scored a job at Top Gear Australia back in 2008, and then worked at Zoom/Extreme Performance magazines, CarAdvice, and started PerformanceDrive/PDriveTV in 2011 with Josh Bennis, and ran it for 12 years. He's now the owner and managing editor here at Driving Enthusiast.

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