Hyundai unveiled new 'Active Air Skirt' technology to boost EV range and performance

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Hyundai Motor unveiled its latest EV technology on Monday, the Active Air Skirt (AAS). The new EV technology improves aerodynamics, increasing driving range and performance at greater speeds.

After selling over 117,000 EVs in the United States last year, Hyundai Motor (including Kia) surpassed Ford and GM to rank second in US EV sales behind Tesla. Hyundai and Kia accounted for around 8% of passenger EV sales in the United States last year.

The South Korean carmaker hopes to keep the trend rolling with new EV technology and features. As competition increases, quicker charging, better range, and other features become increasingly popular.

Hyundai has been on a roll, introducing new EV technology that enables greater driving range, faster charging, improved performance, and safety. Its most recent invention, announced last month, leverages integrated chain technology to better driving in difficult winter conditions.

In November, Hyundai unveiled their "Uni Wheel" drive system, which relocates the major drive system components into the vehicle wheel. This frees up more internal room in the cabin.

Hyundai is also researching new battery technology, such as sophisticated all-solid-state batteries, which provide faster charging and better performance.

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Genesis GV60 (Source: Hyundai)

Hyundai and Kia's latest breakthrough, Active Air Skirt technology, is intended to reduce wind resistance at high speeds, resulting in longer range and improved handling.

Hyundai releases new Active Air Skirt EV tech

The system modifies air flow to the bottom section of the bumper in response to the speed of the car.

Hyundai placed the AAS in the space between the front wheels and bumper. The device is concealed when traveling at slow speeds. Nonetheless, the AAS engages when the rolling resistance is greater than the air resistance while over 50 mph (80 km/h). Once again, the unit is stored at 43 mph (70 km/h).

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Hyundai Active Air Skirt EV tech (Source: Hyundai)

Part of the wheel is also covered by the AAS. Hyundai claims that their E-GMP EV platform only covers the front portion. Aerodynamics are better when part of the tire is covered since the platform is flat.

Additionally, the new technology produces more downforce, which enhances control and stability at high speeds. This is particularly useful for bigger EVs, like as trucks or SUVs.

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Hyundai Active Air Skirt EV tech (Source: Hyundai)

The new EV technology "is expected to have a greater effect on models such as SUVs where it is difficult to improve aerodynamic performance," according to Sun Hyung Cho, vice president of mobility body development at Hyundai.

The robust rubber substance of Hyundai's new Active Air Skirt allows it to work at over 124 mph (200 km/h).

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Hyundai IONIQ 5 (left) and IONIQ 6 (right) at Tesla Supercharger (Source: Hyundai)

Following testing of the new EV technology, Hyundai lowered the Genesis GV60's drag coefficient (Cd) by 0.008 points. That's a 2.8% reduction in drag, enough for an extra 4 miles (6 km) of range.

In South Korea and the US, Hyundai and Kia have already submitted patent applications for the technology. Following the conclusion of performance testing, mass production is scheduled to commence.

Hyundai Active Air Skirt EV tech (Source: Hyundai)

With the industry-leading Cd of 0.21 for the IONIQ 6, Hyundai is already a pioneer in aerodynamics. The MSRP of the Hyundai IONIQ 6 from 2024 is $38,650, and its range is up to 361 miles. Hyundai is now providing a $7,500 purchase discount, which is $9,300 less than the price of the new Tesla Model 3.

Are you in the market for a new EV? Hyundai’s IONIQ 6 is being offered at some of the lowest prices since launching. You can use our link to find great deals on the 2024 Hyundai IONIQ 6 at a dealer near you.

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