Development of a thermal physiological model to analyze the effect of local radiant heaters in electric vehicles

Abstract

In the global effort to reduce CO2 emissions and mitigate climate change, there is significant interest in replacing internal combustion engine vehicles with electric vehicles. Furthermore, the use of radiant heaters rather than conventional air conditioning systems may reduce the energy consumption in electric vehicles. In this work, a thermal physiology model that includes the effect of local radiant heaters was developed to predict the temperature change in a human body in a cold or warm environment. The developed model indicated an increase in the mean skin temperature when radiant heaters were used in a cold environment. Local and overall thermal sensation and thermal comfort predicted from simulation showed an escalation in the sensation and comfort, thereby suggesting an improvement in passenger comfort with the addition of local radiant heaters. This study might contribute to effective energy saving strategies and passenger comfort in electric vehicles.