Fuel-efficiency technology trend assessment for LDVs in China: Thermal management technology

This working paper assesses progress and new developments in thermal management technologies in China.

A variety of mature technologies are associated with vehicle thermal efficiency and have on-cycle and off-cycle benefits. There has been a proliferation of off-cycle thermal management technological solutions in the past decade in major vehicle markets. These mature and commercialized products have the potential to be applied on Chinese cars. If the rest of the world is a guide, then HVAC efficiency measures and solar glazing will be commercialized first, since they are quite mature. However, if the effects of these technologies will not be reflected in the fuel-consumption type-approval test procedure in China in the post-2020 regulations, they might need to be recognized for offcycle credits to offset costs.

In a future dominated by electric vehicles, ventilated, cooled, and heated seats and other distributed heating and cooling technologies will become a standard part of the complete vehicle climatization strategy.

This paper is one of a series of ICCT working paper that aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current availability, effectiveness, and future market penetration of key fuel-efficiency technologies that manufacturers are likely to use in China by 2030. This information enables a more accurate, China-specific understanding of future technology pathways.

Related papers:

Fuel-efficiency technology trend assessment for LDVs in China: Advanced engine technology

Fuel-efficiency technology trend assessment for LDVs in China: Transmission technology

Fuel-efficiency technology trend assessment for LDVs in China: Vehicle technology

Fuel-efficiency technology trend assessment for LDVs in China: Hybrids and electrification

Fuel-efficiency technology trend assessment for LDVs in China: Summary of working paper series

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