Modifying an existing automotive (IC) air conditioning system for DC power

This paper describes the design and implementation of a system that uses a DC-powered electric air conditioning (AC) compressor instead of the conventional engine-driven AC compressor found in vehicles with internal combustion engines. The proposed system uses thermoelectric generators (TEGs) and solar panels as the energy source. It is designed for the Maruti Suzuki Alto K10, a car used by many people in Sri Lanka. A LiFePO₄ battery stores energy, which provides sufficient power to operate and power the electric compressor without the involvement of the engine. The project demonstrates that adding such a system to current vehicles is feasible, cost-effective, and environmentally beneficial.