The rapid adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), driven by stricter emissions norms, is transforming both urban and rural mobility. However, significant challenges remain, particularly concerning the charging infrastructure and battery technology. The limited availability of charging stations and the reliance on current high-energy-density cells restrict the overall effectiveness of the e-mobility ecosystem. These constraints lead to shorter vehicle ranges and longer charging times, contributing to range anxiety—one of the most critical barriers to widespread EV adoption. Adding to these challenges, auxiliary systems, especially air-conditioning (AC) systems, significantly impact energy consumption. Among all auxiliary systems, the AC system is the most energy-intensive, often exacerbating range anxiety by reducing the distance an EV can travel on a single charge. Hence, it is essential to focus on enhancing the efficiency of AC systems. This involves redefining and optimizing system layouts to minimize the power drawn without compromising comfort.
This study investigates the enhancements in cabin comfort and reductions in energy consumption of an electric car's air-conditioning (AC) system by optimizing the placement of its compressor and condenser. The experiments were conducted on an electric reverse trike, characterized by two front wheels and a single rear wheel. Initially, the AC system's compressor and condenser were mounted at the vehicle's rear. However, this configuration suffered from limited space and reduced ambient airflow, higher AC line length resulting in suboptimal performance, excessive energy consumption, and insufficient cabin cooling. To address these issues, the compressor and condenser were relocated to the vehicle's front, where better airflow and space conditions could potentially enhance system efficiency. Experimental evaluations were performed to compare energy consumption and cooling performance between the two configurations. Special attention was given to the high-voltage battery pack, also positioned at the front, to ensure that the redesign did not lead to thermal heating of the battery. The results revealed significant improvements with the front-mounted configuration. The cabin temperature dropped by 12-14°C, providing a noticeably cooler and more comfortable environment. Battery energy consumption improved by 10–15%, a substantial enhancement in energy utilization for the AC system. This optimization not only enhances passenger comfort but also contributes to extending the vehicle's range, addressing key challenges in electric mobility. The findings underscore the importance of strategic system layout in improving the performance and efficiency of electric vehicle auxiliary systems.