Hyundai Mobis Unveils Advanced Cooling Technology for EV Batteries
On December 17, 2023, Hyundai Mobis, the automotive parts arm of Hyundai Motor Group, announced its readiness to commercialize a cutting-edge battery cell cooling material. This innovation, known as the "Pulsating Heat Pipe," aims to improve both the charging efficiency and safety of electric vehicles (EVs).
The Pulsating Heat Pipe system is constructed from aluminium alloy tubes filled with refrigerants. These tubes are strategically placed between battery cells in the module assembly to dissipate heat effectively, particularly during fast charging. Comparative tests have demonstrated a nearly 20-degree temperature difference between Hyundai Mobis’ cooling technology and conventional aluminium cooling plates.
Hyundai Mobis has pioneered the integration of heat pipe coolers (PHP) into EV batteries, adapting a technology previously used in personal computers and smartphones. In this system, refrigerants oscillate within the pipes, transferring heat to cooling blocks, thereby stabilizing the battery module’s temperature. The new material will initially be applied to high-end EVs requiring ultra-fast charging, with plans for broader application in passenger car batteries following cost-optimized production.
The Pulsating Heat Pipe system represents a major advancement in battery safety and efficiency, positioning Hyundai Mobis to strengthen its role in the global EV market despite an industry slowdown. The company has also streamlined the manufacturing process, making the pipes just 0.8 millimeters thick, a significant reduction compared to current 6-millimeter heat pipes. This design innovation enables slimmer and more compact battery modules.
An official from Hyundai Mobis stated, "The new material will be used first for high-end EVs that require ultra-fast charging." The company plans to actively promote the technology to global automakers as part of its strategy to expand its presence in the EV sector.
