Vehicle Thermal Management

NREL works with vehicle manufacturers, suppliers, and fleet partners to research energy-efficient solutions to climate control and thermal system challenges.

Research and Development

Image of two cars and three semi cabs in a parking lot with a testing meter.

NREL's thermal management research helps optimize the thermal performance of light-duty and heavy-duty conventional and electric-drive vehicles. Researchers explore advanced approaches to climate control—such as improvements to cabin insulation; window systems; and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems—to increase fuel economy while maintaining passenger comfort.

Light-duty vehicle thermal management

Heavy-duty vehicle thermal management

Browse Publications

NREL publishes journal articles, conference papers, and reports about vehicle thermal management research.

Vehicle Thermal Management Modeling Tools

NREL's vehicle thermal management modeling tools allow researchers to assess the trade-offs and calculate the potential benefits of thermal design options.

Contact

Contact us to learn more about our vehicle thermal management research or explore partnership opportunities.

Jason Lustbader

Manager, Advanced Vehicles and Charging Infrastructure Group

Jason.Lustbader@nrel.gov
303-275-4443

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