Hyundai and Kia are pioneering a groundbreaking aerodynamic solution for electric vehicles (EVs) with the Active Air Skirt, aimed at optimizing range and stability during high-speed driving.
The Active Air Skirt, currently undergoing testing, consists of a retractable flap positioned in front of a vehicle’s front tires. Primarily tailored for EVs built on Hyundai’s E-GMP platform, it’s currently showcased on a Genesis GV60 crossover.
This innovative device deploys at speeds exceeding 80 kph (49 mph) and retracts at 70 kph (43 mph), ensuring seamless functionality without unnecessary movement at intermediate speeds. By covering only the area ahead of the front tires, it leverages the E-GMP platform’s flat floor for enhanced aerodynamic performance.
Hyundai reports a significant 2.8% reduction in the coefficient of drag for the GV60 test vehicle, translating to approximately 3.7 additional miles of range. Furthermore, increased downforce contributes to improved traction and stability at higher velocities.
Patents for the Active Air Skirt have been sought in both South Korea and the U.S., signaling Hyundai and Kia’s commitment to advancing EV technology. Pending successful durability and performance evaluations, mass production could be on the horizon.
With aspirations to refine aerodynamics beyond sedan models like the Ioniq 6, Hyundai anticipates broader applications for the Active Air Skirt, potentially enhancing the performance of larger SUVs such as the Kia EV9 and Hyundai’s forthcoming Seven concept-based production model.