Electrification is Here for HVAC Systems

The future of HVAC systems is here – and that future is electrification. Over the last decade, mobile HVAC has transitioned from a nice-to-have operator comfort feature into a whole-vehicle system that is critical to the primary functions of a vehicle. Recognizing the importance of electrification, Red Dot is squarely focused on innovation in electric products and systems to support operator comfort and reduce energy consumption and overall costs in the long term.
 
As the market shifts toward alternative drive technology for on- and off-highway equipment, there are increasingly sophisticated demands on the technology and heating and cooling performance of HVAC systems – beyond keeping operators safe and comfortable in even the most rugged environments.
 
“Traditionally, mobile HVAC systems have consisted of four components—a compressor, condenser, expansion valve and evaporator — as well as some hoses for integration into a piece of equipment. However, electrification is extending the system not only in terms of components but also regarding the role it plays in a machine,” said vice president of engineering at Red Dot, Matt Jun. “In addition to providing heating and cooling to keep operators comfortable, these systems are now being tasked with heating and cooling vehicle batteries and motors, chargers and other electronics.”
 
To meet these evolving needs, Red Dot works closely with OEMs to develop individualized systems and HVAC solutions that work symbiotically with the components of the vehicle. The most important aspect when working with OEs is to integrate with them early in the process in order to ensure the most cost-effective solutions.
 
“We love the challenge of working with our customers and partners on this systemic evolution toward electrification,” said Jun. “Whether that involves designing a custom HVAC solution for a BEV in development or sharing underlying technical knowledge and understanding of what is still a new frontier for many professionals.”
 
Since electric vehicles are relatively new to the public, Red Dot also creates off-the-shelf HVAC solutions that work symbiotically with BEV components. Recently, the company launched the R-9926 DC Electric Compressor and Condenser, which is capable of converting a preexisting HVAC system into an electric system while offering a comfortable A/C solution for the most rugged environments. The R-9926 has a dedicated space for batteries, giving operators more run time while the main engine is off while maintaining more capacity than other engine-off solutions on the market. Not only this, but the R-9926 offers maintenance-free operation through years of rough use, driven by a heavy-duty brushless motor that runs with ease at a fixed speed.
 
With extensive experience in battery thermal management, electronic component management, electrification of HVAC systems and more, Red Dot has the capability and knowhow to create premium-quality mobile HVAC solutions for any situation. Additionally, Red Dot offers the industry’s most comprehensive catalog of mobile HVAC all-makes parts, accessories and unit kits.
 
For information on Red Dot’s robust catalogue of electric product offerings, please reach out to the Red Dot sales team at [email protected] or [email protected].