Future Hyundai and Kia cars might never need air fresheners thanks to UV tech - Engadget

Hyundai and Kia have unveiled Plasma Care UVC, a cabin sanitization system designed to reduce bacteria and help eliminate odors without requiring passengers to be absent. The companies said the system uses Far-UVC light in the 200 to 230 nanometer range, produced by a plasma lamp, which they claim can destroy bacteria and viruses while not penetrating human skin. They added that conventional UVC sterilization can pose risks to skin and eyes, and that Far-UVC is used in controlled settings such as airplane bathrooms between visitors. Hyundai and Kia said they optimized the technology for vehicle use by shrinking its size, improving power efficiency, and adding an optical filter to limit wavelengths. In tests, Korea Testing Laboratory measured a 96.8% reduction in airborne viruses within 30 minutes, while a separate evaluation with Seoul National University reported a 99.9% elimination of pneumonia-causing bacteria in 30 seconds. Final testing with the Korea Automotive Technology Institute found 99.9% eradication of E. coli within 40 minutes in an actual cabin. The system is not yet installed in production vehicles, and limits include reliance on direct illumination.