Heated seat belts are the latest innovation designed to boost the driving range of electric cars.
Revealed at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, the Heat Belt from ZF is claimed to increase EV range by up to 15 percent in cold weather. The idea is to use it in combination with a heated seat, rather than switching on the car’s (energy-sapping and relatively inefficient) heating and ventilation system.
For an electric car with a 300-mile range, doing so could mean additional 45 miles between recharging stops.
The heat is on
The Heat Belt uses heating conductors woven into the belt itself. The webbing is only fractionally thicker than a standard seat belt, so its operation is identical – and no changes are needed to the car’s interior.
Heated to between 36 and 40 degrees C, the belt warms up almost instantly, providing uniform warmth close to the body.
ZF says the heated belt is ‘in no way inferior to its conventional counterparts in terms of occupant protection’. Indeed, by reducing the need for bulky clothing, such as a winter coat, the belt can lie flatter and closer to the occupant’s chest, making it more effective in an impact.
Some like it hot
ZF is a global automotive technology company, best known for its automatic gearboxes and electronic safety systems. The Heat Belt will be offered to car manufacturers, particularly with EVs in mind, as a factory-fit replacement for standard seat belts.
It’s not clear yet whether Heat Belts will be available as an aftermarket accessory for older cars.
Looking for more electric car news and advice? Visit our dedicated Motoring Electric website.
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