Improving vehicle warm-up performance in cold conditions using phase change materials

In cold climates, improving vehicle warm-up performance is crucial for reducing emissions and fuel consumption. Traditional methods often fail to efficiently address this issue, particularly during initial cold start periods. This study aims to enhance vehicle warm-up performance in cold conditions using phase change materials (PCMs). A thermal energy storage device was developed using paraffin wax, selected for its high energy density and a melting point of 69.3 °C, integrated with an optimized heat exchanger. Real road driving tests were conducted under urban and highway conditions, with temperatures ranging from −5 to 0 °C, using a 2.2L diesel engine vehicle. The results demonstrated a significant reduction in engine warm-up time by 20–30 %, leading to a decrease in fuel consumption and CO emissions by 365–517 g annually. The thermal energy storage device supplied up to 694.63 kJ of heat energy to the coolant, further improving vehicle efficiency and reducing environmental impact. Furthermore, evaluating PCM-based systems under real-world driving conditions is crucial for validating their practical effectiveness. Real-world variables introduce challenges that help confirm the applicability of PCM-based systems in everyday use. This approach shows potential for enhancing warm-up performance in cold climates without additional fuel consumption, outperforming conventional methods.