Air quality and comfort characterisation within an electric vehicle cabin

Abstract

This paper focuses on a sensors system setup for the characterization of the air quality within the cabin of a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV). The concentration of PM2.5 and VOC are measured employing a low-cost Arduino-based system of sensors. Comparisons between the air quality measured in the cabin during different configurations of the air-ventilation system are provided and discussed. The main differences outlined are related to the open air and recirculation configurations. The air temperature distribution, together with various airborne pollutants are monitored and related to the energy consumption of the heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. A wider concept of comfort is thus explored based on the use of sensors in the automotive scenario.