Hyundai and Kia test the 'world's first' in-car sanitization tech in the PV5

Hyundai and Kia test the 'world’s first' in-car sanitization tech in the PV5 by using a Far-UVC plasma lamp designed to disinfect while the vehicle is occupied. Hyundai Motor and Kia say they have developed “the world’s first in-vehicle sanitization technology” after successful real-world testing in Kia’s electric van, the PV5, in collaboration with the Korea Automotive Technology Institute. The Plasma Care UVC system uses far-ultraviolet C light with a wavelength between 200 and 300 nanometers, which Hyundai claims can sanitize effectively without penetrating the outer layer of keratin on skin. The companies say the approach reduces bacteria and viruses on skin surfaces and also helps remove “odor-causing substances” from the air. In the test, 99.9% of E. coli bacteria were eliminated after 40 minutes of exposure. Hyundai also shared video scenarios showing PV5 use as a school bus, fruit stand and ambulance, and expects future applications in autonomous driving and purpose-built vehicles.