A new scent for Valeo and other fun climate technology - New Product - Brief Article

Automotive Industries, Feb, 2002 by Andrea Wielgat

Valeo SA has come up with a new approach to brand perception -- smell. Come 2a04, the French partsmaker will bring a fragrance diffuser to market. The system uses the HVAC distribution modes to release fragrance into the vehicle. The driver controls when the fragrance is distributed via a button on the dashboard.

Valeo says one of the advantages of the system can be an olfactory signature for a particular brand. It also says the system can help keep the driver awake during long trips, depending on which scent is chosen.

"It is to create a personal feel in your car," says Carine Paumier, project manager for air quality.

Two other systems are also on the way from Valeo.

To eliminate cold drafts, Valeo has developed a system that softly diffuses the air coming out of the vents. A diffuser located in front of the defrost outlet helps make the air slower and softer in both airflow and temperature. Valeo says it provides a homogeneous climate in the cabin. Expect it to be installed in a car in 2003 or 2004.

For a harmful-gas free driving experience, Valeo has also developed a photocatalysis air purifier system to eliminate pollutant gases. The company says it rids the vehicle of several harmful gases, including volatile organic components, nitrogen and sulfur oxides. It is expected on the market in 2003 or 2004.