The Rise of CO2 Electric Bus Air Conditioning

Electric buses have been gaining popularity in recent years due to their environmental benefits and efficiency. However, one of the challenges faced by these buses is the heating issue in winter, especially in northern regions. Traditional heat pump air conditioning systems for electric buses use freon as the working fluid, which not only has a strong greenhouse effect but also experiences a rapid decline in heating capacity at low temperatures, sometimes even failing to operate.

To address this challenge, the use of natural refrigerant CO2 has emerged as a promising solution. CO2 has a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 1 and an Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) of 0, making it environmentally friendly and pollution-free. Furthermore, CO2 heat pump air conditioning systems exhibit excellent winter heating performance, well-suited to meet the heating needs of electric buses during the winter season.

Among the pioneers in the development of CO2 heat pump air conditioning for electric buses is the German company Konvekta. The company has developed various series of CO2 heat pump air conditioning prototypes for different types of buses, small trucks, and heavy-duty trucks. These prototypes have undergone small-scale road tests, and Konvekta's CO2 heat pump system has already operated for 100,000 kilometers. In collaboration with partners, Konvekta has manufactured over 20 first-generation heat pumps, which have proven their potential in testing.

The first-generation Konvekta CO2 heat pump not only adjusts the temperature of the passenger compartment but also precisely controls the temperature of the batteries. This comprehensive temperature control extends the life of the precise and expensive batteries and increases the operating range of the electric bus. By adopting CO2 heat pump air conditioning, electric buses can significantly improve their comfort levels and energy efficiency, further promoting the development of green and sustainable transportation.

In conclusion, the use of CO2 as a refrigerant in electric bus heat pump air conditioning systems represents a significant advancement in addressing the heating challenges faced by these vehicles. With its environmental benefits, excellent heating performance, and comprehensive temperature control capabilities, CO2 heat pump air conditioning is poised to become the future of electric bus air conditioning.