Hyundai and Kia test the ‘world’s first’ in-car sanitization tech in the PV5

Hyundai and Kia have a new idea to keep your interior germ-free. The Korean automakers revealed “the world’s first in-vehicle sanitization technology,” after a successful test in the PV5.

Hyundai, Kia unveil new type of in-car sanitization tech

After the global COVID-19 pandemic, germ-fighting technology has come a long way. Portable UV lights, face masks, and antimicrobial sprays are available in nearly every store.

The new technology is now making its way into vehicles. Hyundai Motor and Kia introduced what they call “the world’s first in-vehicle sanitization technology,” which uses a plasma lamp to disinfect and reduce odors, even while you’re still in the vehicle.

It might seem a bit unsafe, given that ultraviolet (UV) light exposure can cause sunburns and eye irritations, but Hyundai and Kia said the system is safe.

The Plasma Care UVC system uses a far-ultraviolet C (Far-UVC) light with a wavelength between 200 and 300 nanometers.

The specific range, according to Hyundai, is high enough to sanitize effectively, but won’t penetrate the outer layer of keratin on your skin. By doing so, the light kills bacteria and viruses on your skin’s surface.

Hyundai said the new tech can be used in other larger areas where conventional UVC poses a threat, including schools and hospitals.

A bonus: Since it targets bacteria and other microorganisms, the system removes “odor-causing substances” from the air.

Hyundai and Kia have successfully tested the new technology in real-world scenarios. In collaboration with the Korea Automotive Technology Institute, the sanitization tech was used in the PV5, Kia’s electric van.

The test showed that 99.9% of E. coli bacteria were eliminated after 40 minutes of exposure. To show how it can be useful in everyday life, Hyundai released a video (shown above) featuring the PV5 being used as a school bus, a fruit stand, and even an ambulance.

Han Joo Jang, a Senior Research Engineer at Hyundai Motor and Kia, expects the new system to be used in future autonomous driving and purpose-built vehicles.

Kia’s electric van has been a global hit so far, both for retail and commercial use. With new variants and technology on the way, Kia aims to lead the shift to electric in the commercial vehicle market.