Hanon System, a global leader in automotive thermal energy management, stated today that production of its eco-friendly R744 electric compressors has surpassed one million units. This milestone was achieved just a year and a half after the company reached the 500,000-unit mark in January last year.
Electric compressors are a core component of electric vehicle heat pump systems, playing a crucial role in regulating cabin temperature and enhancing overall vehicle efficiency. The technology is particularly effective in addressing the reduction of driving range in cold climates, a common challenge for electric vehicles.
The R744 electric compressors are produced at Hanon System’s Palmela plant in Portugal, a facility dedicated to automotive compressors, and supplied to Volkswagen Group’s electric vehicle-exclusive MEB platform in Germany. R744, a natural refrigerant based on carbon dioxide, has a global warming potential of just 1, making it a promising alternative to conventional refrigerants.
Hanon System was the first in the industry to develop an electric compressor using natural refrigerant R744. Alongside this breakthrough, the company maintains a diverse technology portfolio that includes next-generation R290 (propane) solutions and traditional refrigerants such as R134a and R1234yf, allowing it to meet a broad range of global market demands.
“Hanon System continues to innovate in the field of automotive thermal management solutions, which is also in line with the innovative DNA that Chairman Cho Hyun-beom emphasizes,” said Lee Soo-il, vice chairman and CEO.
“This R744 electric compressor breakthrough is the result of strengthening eco-friendly technology leadership based on synergy within the group and marks an important milestone in our commitment to a sustainable future,” he added.
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