Summary
- MAHLE has introduced a bionic high-performance fan for commercial electric vehicles to reduce noise
- The fan provides a 10% increase in performance and a 10% lighter design compared to alternatives
- Fan is offered in a wide power range for use in various vehicles, from small electric cars to large fuel cell trucks
- Reduced noise levels during fast charging can enhance driver and resident comfort
- The fan blades were designed to mimic owl wings for optimized ventilation
Article
MAHLE has introduced a bionic high-performance fan for commercial electric vehicles that reduces fan noise by up to 4 dB(A), making trucks quieter. The fan also offers a 10% increase in performance and is 10% lighter than other alternatives. In addition, the fan cover and carrier were developed based on bionic principles, resulting in a more than 10% weight reduction and increased structural integrity. This fan is offered in a broad power range from 300 W to 35 kW, allowing it to be used in a variety of vehicles, from small electric passenger cars to large fuel cell trucks.
Reduced noise levels during fast charging of vehicles can enhance comfort for drivers and residents in the area, particularly during nighttime charging in residential areas or during resting times at service stations. MAHLE engineers optimized the ventilation blades by modeling them on the wings of an owl, known for being one of the quietest birds. The technology used for the bionic fan was inspired by previous successes with a bionic battery cooling plate. By analyzing characteristics from nature, such as bats and swordfish, the engineers ultimately based the design on the owl, a silent hunter, for the new fan.
The bionic fan from MAHLE has been well received by various passenger car and commercial vehicle manufacturers, who are currently trialing the first prototypes. The fan’s innovative design not only improves performance but also addresses the need for reduced noise levels in electric vehicles. The fan is suitable for a range of applications, from small electric cars to large, temperature-sensitive fuel cell trucks.
The development of the bionic fan is part of MAHLE’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in the electric vehicle industry. By drawing inspiration from nature and using advanced technologies like AI, the company was able to create a fan that not only meets performance requirements but also contributes to a quieter and more comfortable driving experience. The use of bionic principles in the design of the fan cover and carrier further demonstrates MAHLE’s dedication to lightweight and structurally sound solutions for electric vehicles.
Overall, the introduction of the bionic high-performance fan by MAHLE represents a significant advancement in the development of quieter and more efficient electric vehicles. By utilizing bionic design principles inspired by nature, the company has been able to create a fan that reduces noise levels while improving performance and structural integrity. With ongoing trials by various manufacturers, the bionic fan is poised to become a key component in the next generation of electric vehicles, contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly transportation industry.
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