Delphi HVAC tech on Ferrari 458 Italia

DELPHI CORP IS to supply key technologies to the new Ferrari 458 Italia including optimised air conditioning, advanced wiring systems and an innovative suspension that contributes to the vehicle’s lighter weight and lower emissions. “Reducing overall vehicle weight goes a long way in terms of reducing carbon dioxide emissions. For this reason, weight reduction has taken on an even greater role with automakers including such luxury brands as Ferrari,” said Ron Pirtle, president, Powertrain Systems and president, Delphi Europe, Middle East and Africa. “Both Delphi’s air conditioning and electrical/electronic architecture systems help enable weight reduction. This helps lower emissions and fuel consumption while still maintaining the luxury performance for which Ferrari is known.” Innovative HVAC Delphi worked closely with Ferrari engineers to develop a complete air-conditioning system for the 458 Italia that provided not only top-notch passenger comfort but was also lightweight. The 458 Italia’s new Delphi heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) includes an innovative dual-zone heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system specifically designed to optimise weight, packaging and user interface. The system also includes Delphi’s latest-generation compact variable compressor, which features an energy-saving seven piston continuously variable mechanism allied to the AC system’s control software, which allows for optimised fuel efficiency and engine power availability. The HVAC system is 36 percent lighter than its predecessor but still allows for a 15 percent increase in cooling power. The 458 Italia features wiring harnesses with Delphi's Halogen-Free Ultra-Thin-Wall Cable, a highly durable automotive cable with significantly lighter and thinner insulation than traditional cable. A recyclable and environmentally-friendly product free of dangerous halogens, it offers pinch resistance nearly double that of traditional cable, and outstanding abrasion resistance. The use of this advanced cable also leads to cable size and weight reduction which, in turn, cuts down on the amount of CO2 emissions the vehicle produces. The insulation on the Halogen-Free Ultra-Thin-Wall Cable is half as thick as conventional coatings — 0.2mm versus 0.4mm — or about as thick as two sheets of paper, reducing weight by up to 27 percent and volume by up to 47 percent as compared to thin-wall cable. The new 458 Italia will be equipped with the latest version of Delphi’s MagneRide advanced suspension control system. The system has been updated to respond even faster to road conditions improving Ferrari’s already top-notch ride and handling performance. MagneRide virtually eliminates the traditional need for a ride/handling compromise. Using patented shock absorbers filled with a proprietary controllable magneto-rheological fluid, the system offers increased damping tuning capability and speed of response over valve-based controlled suspension systems.