ZF, a global automotive technology provider, has developed a heating belt called Heat belt dedicated to electric cars. The initial goal of this technology is to use seat belts to heat passengers in order to reduce the electricity consumed by air conditioning.
Low temperatures are arguably the number one natural enemy of electric vehicles. In addition to causing low battery activity and reduced discharge performance, cabin heating is also a “high energy consumer”. This results in reduced power consumption and battery life. But do you know that this safety element that we have all been used to closing can improve the autonomy of an electric vehicle even in winter. Unveiled at CES 2023, the ZF heated seat belt limits the energy consumption of an electric car.
Heat Belt: heating belt for electric cars
At the Consumer Electronic Show, CES 2023, ZF unveiled an ingenious idea: Heat Belt. The latter was designed exclusively for the purpose ofincrease battery life while ensuring the safety and comfort of users. This heated seat belt allows the electric vehicle to save up to 15% energy.
Heat Belt uses a specific strap incorporating thermal conductors. ZF’s extensive research and technological advances have made it possible to minimize the increase in webbing thickness.
It should be noted that the purpose of this heating belt is to provide passengers with pleasant ambient warmth. As soon as the electric vehicle starts, the temperature ranges from 36 to 40°C. In addition, the combination of this new technology with the heated seats allows passengers to enjoy exceptional comfort even in winter.
Using contact heaters and reducing the use of air conditioning can achieve up to 15% savings. Electricity consumption is thus considerably reduced. Indeed, the heating belt does not use the air conditioning system which runs on the battery of electric vehicles. Unlike a combustion engine, in which there is a usable waste heat source.
Heated belt combining safety, efficiency and comfort
For this novelty, the German equipment manufacturer has implemented a special method to treat the textile. Indeed, the heating elements have been woven directly into the heating belt. In addition, the elements of the electric heating cables are well arranged so as not to disturb the winding or the operation of the strip.
ZF emphasizes thatno special belt tensioner is required for fitting the heated seat belt. Knowing that all the essential components of the heating blanket have not changed, the installation does not require the implementation of new procedures
For passengers on board an electric vehicle, the performance of this heated seat belt is no different from that of a conventional belt. It improves the user experience. Indeed, it allows you to do without too bulky clothes while increasing its level of security. She provides a greater feeling of comfort. In fact, the heating belt will be closer to the body and will protect the occupants.
