Hanon Systems’ HVAC Technology Finalist for 2025 Automotive News PACE Award

Hanon Systems announced on August 20 that its “Visible Light LED Photocatalytic Reaction-Based HVAC Antibacterial Deodorization Technology” has been selected as a finalist for the 2025 Automotive News PACE Award. This recognition marks another milestone for the company, which has a history of innovation in the automotive HVAC industry.

The “Visible Light LED Photocatalytic Reaction-Based HVAC Antibacterial Deodorization Technology” is an upgraded version of the “UV Photocatalytic Technology,” which was a finalist for the PACE Award in 2016. This advanced module effectively removes microorganisms, harmful gases, and odors entering from both inside and outside the vehicle. Unlike conventional ion generators, it significantly improves air quality without generating electromagnetic waves or harmful ozone, and it can be used semi-permanently. The technology is already being supplied to the highest-end sedan vehicles in the domestic market.

Tests conducted by external accredited institutions have shown that the visible light LED photocatalytic module is highly effective in removing airborne viruses and bacteria, with a removal rate of 98.5% for viruses, 87% for bacteria, and 97.5% for harmful gases. This makes it a significant advancement in ensuring the health and comfort of vehicle occupants.

Nagasubramanian Ramachandran, Co-President and CEO of Hanon Systems, expressed his pride in the company’s achievement. “It is highly significant that Hanon Systems’ differentiated technological competitiveness has been globally recognized,” he said. “We will continue to strive to develop new technologies that can enhance the driving comfort of our customers.”

Hanon Systems has a storied history with the PACE Awards. In 2007, the company became the first in Korea and the first in the Asian HVAC industry to win the PACE Award with its next-generation cooling fan module, ‘Wave Fan & Tooth Shroud’ technology. In 2013, Hanon Systems won its second PACE Award with the “Metal Seal Fitting” technology. The company was also a finalist in 2016 with its “UV LED Photocatalytic” technology.

The PACE (Premier Automotive Suppliers’ Contribution to Excellence) Award is a prestigious recognition in the automotive industry, awarded by Automotive News. It honors innovation, technological advancement, and business performance among automotive suppliers. Being a finalist for this award underscores Hanon Systems’ commitment to leading the industry in technological innovation and enhancing vehicle air quality.

Hanon Systems is a global automotive supplier specializing in thermal and energy management solutions. The company’s continuous efforts in developing advanced technologies have positioned it as a leader in the automotive HVAC industry. The visible light LED photocatalytic technology is a testament to Hanon Systems’ dedication to improving air quality and ensuring the health and comfort of vehicle occupants.