Thermoelectrics for environmental control in automobiles

Thermoelectrics have application for cooling, heating and temperature control in vehicles including cars, trucks and vans. The first automobile application has successfully entered mass production. Interest is increasing in establishing other uses for thermoelectrics in vehicles. Characteristics and performance requirements to meet present and projected usage for specific vehicular applications are discussed and estimates are given for the required ZT, power density and cost that enable market entry. The present vehicle application of Amerigon Incorporated´s seat cooling and heating system is given as an example of a TE product that has exhibited very good consumer acceptance, through a direct increase in personal all weather comfort. Manufacturers have embraced the technology because it increases the perceived performance of current HVAC systems, and reduces vehicle energy consumption by decreasing HVAC power demand. The system is described and analyzed in terms of the unique capabilities that result from the use of thermoelectrics in its design.