#South Korea #Seoul #Thermal Management #Hanon Systems #Hankook Company

Hanon Systems Selected as a Finalist for the 2026 Automotive News PACE Awards

Hanon Systems, renowned globally for its automotive thermal management solutions, has once again distinguished itself by being named a finalist for the prestigious 2026 Automotive News PACE Awards. This recognition showcases the company's continued commitment to innovation in automotive technologies, especially in the context of next-generation electric vehicles.

About the Highly Integrated Cooling Entity

The centerpiece of this recognition is the Highly Integrated Cooling Entity, an innovative thermal management solution. This advanced system amalgamates several essential components of a refrigerant system into one compact module. It includes an electric compressor, an electronic expansion valve, a combined water-cooled condenser, an internal heat exchanger, and a chiller. By streamlining these components into a single unit, the Highly Integrated Cooling Entity eliminates unnecessary complexity while enhancing assembly efficiency and optimizing vehicle space utilization.

Weighing a mere 16 kg, this state-of-the-art module is designed to provide rapid and precise control over refrigerant flow and temperature. Such advancements are crucial for achieving optimal thermal management, especially in demanding situations like fast charging and high-performance driving conditions. The technology not only boosts EV energy efficiency but also extends the vehicle's driving range. Additionally, it features a dedicated sound cover that improves Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) performance, ensuring a quieter ride for passengers.

Currently, this groundbreaking technology has already made its debut in the BMW iX3, marking its first production vehicle application. By bringing such innovations to market, Hanon Systems reaffirms its role as a leader in automotive thermal management.

Celebrating a Legacy of Innovation

The 2026 Automotive News PACE Award nomination is a milestone for Hanon Systems, marking the ninth time the company has been recognized as a finalist in these prestigious awards. Hanon received its first PACE Award in 2007 for its wavy blade fan and serrated shroud technology. Since then, the company has consistently been acknowledged for its innovative contributions, including a second award in 2013 for its metal seal fitting technology and recognition in 2016 for its UV-LED Photocatalyst technology. The firm's commitment has been further demonstrated by their third PACE Award in 2025 for the subsequent generation of their UV-LED technology, the VR-LED Photocatalyst designed for air disinfection.

Soo Il Lee, the Vice Chairman and CEO of Hanon Systems, expressed pride in the latest recognition, stating, "The Highly Integrated Cooling Entity supports next-generation EV thermal management, reflecting our expertise in system integration and innovation. Being recognized once again as a finalist is a testament to our commitment to innovation, and we aim to continue advancing our next-generation solutions, setting global standards in thermal management technology."

A Nod to Automotive Innovation

The Automotive News PACE Awards, now entering their 31st iteration, serve to celebrate and honor the automotive industry's most innovative technologies that blend engineering excellence with successful market commercialization. For this edition, 32 innovations were shortlisted as finalists. The announcement of the ultimate winners will occur in November during a formal ceremony in Detroit, Michigan.

About Hanon Systems

Founded in 1986, Hanon Systems stands at the forefront of thermal management solutions in the automotive sector. It became part of the Hankook Company Group in January 2025, further expanding its capabilities and reach. The company's diverse portfolio includes solutions for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, powertrain cooling, compressor technologies, fluid transport, and both electronic and fluid pressure systems. With over 50 manufacturing sites and three regional innovation centers, Hanon thrives on a global scale, employing more than 20,000 individuals across 21 countries.

For more details, visit Hanon Systems’ website and stay updated through their social media platforms like LinkedIn and YouTube.