Solutia demos advanced solar control, range extension technologies

2012 SAE Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Symposium, SAN DIEGO, USA: Solutia Inc. will feature Saflex S series advanced solar absorbing polyvinyl butyral (PVB) interlayers and XIR reflective film products during the 2012 SAE Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Symposium Feb. 21 through Feb. 24, held in San Diego, California. The company will showcase both heat-reducing technologies for automotive laminated glass applications during the four-day event.

"XIR reflective films and Saflex S series interlayers provide cost-effective opportunities to extend range in hybrid electric and pure electric vehicles," said Tom Selm, global business director for Solutia's Advanced Interlayers division.

"Both product technologies reduce the rate at which the sun heats up a vehicle by preventing solar energy from penetrating vehicle glass without sacrificing driver visibility." When a vehicle starts off cooler or gains less heat while driving, the air conditioning (A/C) system uses less power to achieve and maintain a desired cabin temperature. This allows automotive designers to use smaller and lighter A/C systems, which also allows electric vehicles the ability to increase the driving range for each charge.

Simulations and analysis conducted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) show that A/C use on a pure electric vehicle can decrease its driving range by 15 to 40 percent, depending on frequency of A/C usage and unit size. NREL studies also show that advanced solar control technologies, such as XIR reflective films and Saflex S series solar absorbing interlayers, can reduce cabin temperatures by approximately 13 to 26 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on location. When taking into account the potential reduced A/C usage, this can translate into improved vehicle range compared to a standard windscreen.

"With the current focus on developing high fuel economy hybrid and electric vehicles, the energy load of the A/C system is of increasing significance," said Matthew Rose, automotive market manager for Solutia's Advanced Interlayers division. "This increased range performance reduces consumers' current 'range anxiety' and improves start/stop functionality of the vehicle, extending battery life."

Additionally, OEMs have adopted new onboard comfort and convenience features, such as active sensors, telematics and connectivity options. These options also draw power from a finite source, further limiting range.

"Alternative propulsion vehicles are here to stay, and regardless of which technology becomes prevalent, we will continually see demand for range extension," said Michael Johnson, XIR market manager for Solutia's Advanced Interlayers division. "By reducing the significant A/C power draw, more power can be made available for additional electronic features."