Hyundai and Kia Unveil Groundbreaking Active Air Skirt Technology for Electric Vehicles

In the ever-evolving landscape of electric vehicles (EVs), Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation are making strides to enhance the efficiency and performance of their electric lineup. The latest innovation, showcased on the Genesis GV60, is the Active Air Skirt (AAS), a groundbreaking feature nestled between the front bumper and wheels. This technology promises to reduce drag, increase range, and enhance stability – a trio of benefits that could reshape the driving experience for EV enthusiasts.

The Active Air Skirt in Action

The Active Air Skirt is a dynamic system designed to reduce drag, and it springs into action at speeds over 80 km/h, with the capability to operate seamlessly even at speeds beyond 200 km/h. Notably previewed on the Genesis GV60, the AAS has demonstrated its effectiveness by reducing the drag coefficient by 0.008 during testing, leading to a 2.8% improvement in drag and an increase in range by approximately 6 km. The system, strategically hidden when not in use, retracts at 70 km/h, preventing frequent deployment and retraction within specific speed ranges.

Design and Functionality

Hyundai's design philosophy for the skirt is focused on covering only the front part of the tires without extending to the entire section underneath the front bumper. This tailored approach is made possible by the flat floor of the E-GMP platform (Electric Global Modular Platform), utilized by various Hyundai and Kia electric models. The skirt, crafted from a resilient rubber material, not only reduces drag but also acts as a protective barrier against external objects that might pose a threat to the vehicle's underbody at high speeds.

E-GMP Platform and Future Applications

The Active Air Skirt has been specifically engineered for vehicles underpinned by the E-GMP platform, a key element for models such as the Genesis GV60, Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6, as well as the Kia EV5, EV6, and EV9. Hyundai has already applied for patents in South Korea and the United States, signaling a commitment to bringing this innovative technology into mass production. According to Sun Hyung Cho, Vice President and Head of Mobility Body Development Group at Hyundai Motor Group, this technology is expected to have a significant impact on SUVs, where improving aerodynamic performance can be challenging.

Looking Ahead

As Hyundai and Kia continue to explore avenues to maximize the efficiency of electric vehicles, the Active Air Skirt stands out as a testament to their commitment to innovation. This technology joins a roster of aerodynamic enhancements, including active air flaps, wheel air curtains, wheel gap reducers, and separation traps. While Hyundai Motor Group isn't the first to develop active skirts, this latest addition reinforces their dedication to improving driving performance and stability in the electric vehicle space.

The Active Air Skirt technology unveiled by Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation represents a pivotal step forward in the realm of electric vehicle advancements. With its potential to reduce drag, extend range, and enhance stability, this innovation is set to redefine the driving experience for electric vehicle owners. As Hyundai and Kia continue to conduct further durability and performance tests, the Active Air Skirt holds the promise of becoming a standard feature in their upcoming electric vehicle lineup, paving the way for a more efficient and sustainable future in automotive technology.