Air Conditioning Systems in Vehicles: Approaches and Challenges

Automotive air conditioning systems improve passenger comfort and safety while keeping pace with changing environmental and technological requirements. This review evaluates the historical development, technological progress, and future trends of automotive air conditioning systems, primarily focusing on passenger vehicles, where cabin comfort and individualized thermal control are essential. The analysis examines the transition from early, energy-intensive cooling systems typically operating at a coefficient of performance (COP) of around 1.5 to modern, environmentally friendly alternatives that achieve COP values of approximately 3.0 or higher, highlighting the impact of regulatory measures such as the Kigali Amendment. A particular focus is placed on comparing refrigerants, especially the transition from HFC-134a to HFO-1234yf, with a discussion of their ecological impact and compliance with regulations. Innovative technologies, including adsorption cooling, AI-enhanced climate control, and the integration of renewable energy, are being explored as potential solutions to current challenges. Initially, 121 articles were reviewed, with 84 chosen for detailed examination based on their relevance, methodological soundness, and contributions to the field. The results reveal the trade-offs among efficiency, cost, and sustainability, highlighting the need for ongoing innovation to balance energy usage and environmental stewardship. Future studies should focus on creating refrigerants with extremely low global warming potential, improving battery efficiency in electric vehicles, and utilizing AI for tailored climate control. By tackling these issues, the automotive sector can offer more sustainable and efficient air conditioning options that align with consumer expectations and environmental regulations.