ZF’s exothermic seat belts: The game-changing technology that helps EVs go 15% further

EVs are notorious for losing range in cold weather due to energy being used to warm the vehicle cabin instead of propelling the vehicle forward. But now, prototype “heat belts” from ZF could help eliminate this thermal waste by using the same principle as an electric blanket. These belts warm up just the front of the driver’s torso and pelvis, and in combination with heated seats, they have the potential to provide occupant comfort quickly while reducing the amount of battery current used to heat the interior of the vehicle, potentially resulting in a range gain of up to 15%.

These seatbelts conduct heat through tiny heating elements woven into the belt’s fabric, and according to ZF, these elements will not impact the seat belt’s crash performance. They also feel and look identical to existing belts. While details are scarce on how warm they get, when they’ll be available, and on what vehicles, this could be a game-changing technology for EVs in cold weather.