Audi has launched a new pilot project in collaboration with supplier MANN+HUMMEL to develop a filter that collects particulate matter from the surrounding area. This filter for electric cars will be functional when driving and charging the electric vehicle. It is expected to be demonstrated at the Greentech Festival in London.

Need for a filter

It is said that brake, tyre and road abrasions account for 85% of road traffic dust. Amongst these dust particles, the smallest ones are 10 micrometres in diameter, which makes them easily inhalable by humans. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has recommended particulate matter levels in the atmosphere to be significantly lower than the current levels. Some of these levels are not possible to be achieved in many urban areas of Germany, let alone anywhere else in the rest of the developing countries.

How does the filter work?

The filter developed in collaboration with MANN+HUMMEL sits in front of the car. It can collect particulate matter from the environment. It is similar to filtration systems already installed in some places in the world. The test filters have been installed in Audi e-trons for trial and testing purposes. The project trials commenced in 2020 itself and are expected to continue till 2024.

When driving, the filter works by the movement of the vehicle. Air flows into the filter, which captures even the smallest of particles. When the car is charging, a fan located at the front sucks in air through the filter, ensuring the capture of particulate matter. This would be highly effective in urban areas where the pollution levels are higher compared to rural areas.

Endurance tests conducted

Audi has tested out the filter for over 50,000 km. The main reason for this was to check how it affects the car it has been installed on. It was found that the filters have no adverse effect on the operation of the electric vehicle – especially during hot days or when fast charging.

The filter is further easy to maintain, and owners need not take any special care for the same. It must be replaced during regular servicing. Additionally, the filter will account for just 14.9 kg of CO2 equivalents. The filter consists of 15% recycled material, and the entire system is 60% recycled.

Also Read – How often should you change your car’s filter