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Air-conditioning (AC) is an important sub-system in electric vehicles (EVs). AC is responsible for the highest energy consumption among all the auxiliary systems. As the energy is delivered by the batteries, the power consumption for air-conditioning can imply a significant reduction of the vehicle autonomy. Given the actual state of the art and the temperature and power requirements, electrically driven compressors are the most feasible solution. However, vapour-compression systems are reaching their maximum efficiency. Using innovative technologies can improve the performance of standard systems and hereby increase the vehicle autonomy. This paper presents the first steps in the design of a magnetocaloric air-conditioner for an electric minibus. The system will include two reversible magnetocaloric heat pumps, one in the front part of a minibus and one on the rear. The heat rejection system of the power electronics will be coupled to the air-conditioning system.

This paper presents a new system, environmentally friendly and energy efficient, based on a recent technological breakthrough: “magnetocaloric cooling around room temperature.” This new system is intended for “Automotive” applications to serve as reversible air conditioning and/or for keeping the pack-battery at desired temperature. This system replaces the classical compressor. The expected benefits are: increased energy efficiency (the coefficient of performance “COP” is increased), reduced consumption of fuel or electricity (electro-chemical battery, fuel cells), reduction of corresponding pollutant emissions and of any direct emission of pollutants. This cooling, heating and air conditioning system presents also a better protection of the atmosphere by removing all refrigerant gases. In this paper the magnetocaloric effect which is the scientific base of this new technology will be presented as well as magnetocaloric materials and magnetic systems.