The leading global automotive supplier is presenting a new electrically-driven air conditioning compressor in a BMW 7-series mild hybrid at the Paris Motor Show. A second design allows for the use of the natural refrigerant CO₂ (R744).

Visteon’s electrically-driven compressor solution fits into the package space of a belt-driven compressor used in conventional powertrains. This enables vehicle manufacturers to minimize the complexity of integrating the electric compressor into hybrid alternatives, and to provide full thermal occupant comfort in these vehicles. Based on its expertise in developing electrical and electronic capabilities, Visteon designed a lightweight compressor suitable for mild (lower voltage) or full/plug-in hybrid (higher voltage) applications.

At the Paris Motor Show, running from 4-19 October, the automotive supplier is showcasing its newest product for the first time inside a BMW hybrid demonstration vehicle. Its modular design extending to the mechanical portion of the compressor allows for a second design for alternative refrigerants, such as CO₂ - a natural refrigerant with zero direct greenhouse gas emissions.

In a press release issued on 2 October, Visteon confirmed that the electrically-driven compressor will be available to all carmakers investing in hybrid vehicles as from end-2009 on, when series production will start.

About Visteon

Visteon Corporation is a leading global automotive supplier that designs, engineers and manufactures climate, interior, electronic and lighting products for vehicle manufacturers, and also provides a range of products and services to aftermarket customers. It is the third largest supplier of air conditioning compressors for the global passenger and light commercial vehicle market.