A “SKIRT” TO ENHANCE AERODYNAMICS?

By Isabelle Havasy

Hyundai and Kia recently unveiled a new technology called AAS (Active Air Skirt). The “active air skirt,” nestled between the bumper and the front wheels, minimizes the vehicle’s aerodynamic resistance at high speeds and reduces its drag coefficient. It deploys at 80 km/h and remains functional at speeds in excess of 200 km/h.

Thus equipped, the vehicle benefits from increased downforce, resulting in enhanced traction and stability. As a bonus, EVs gain a few kilometres of extended range.

“This technology should have a greater effect on models like SUVs, where it is difficult to improve aerodynamic performance,” said Sun Hyung Cho, Vice President and Head of the Mobility Body Development Group at Hyundai Motor Group.

Hyundai and Kia have filed patent applications in South Korea and the USA for their innovation. But before going into series production, the ASS will have to undergo durability and performance tests.