Methodology for Shower Water Management in Electric Car Applications

All automotive vehicles with enclosed compartments must pass the shower test standard - IS 11865 (2006). One of the most severe and critical areas of water leakage is “water entry into HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) opening”. Excess water flow at high-pressure conditions and seepage during long-time low-pressure conditions could potentially have a significant impact on water entry inside the HVAC suction cutout given on BIW (body in white) and subsequently into the cabin. The present study clearly indicates that for making leak proof HVAC opening (suction interface), it is crucial for the structure of BIW plenum, plenum applique, and its sealing components to be robust enough to effectively collect and divert the water during rainy seasons.