COVID-19 made face masks one of the most important things in our lives. And today it¡¯s something we cannot even step out without. And now, it looks like our cars too are going to get a face mask.
Japanese carmaker Honda has developed a novel air filter to prevent viruses from entering the car, as well as cleansing existing viruses in the air inside the vehicle. The filter is called Kurumaku which literally means ¡®car mask¡¯.?
The tech behind the filtration system is pretty cool too. It uses a zinc phosphate conversion system. This isn¡¯t new as carmakers are known to use this to prevent rusting on its components.
Honda also claims that the air filter attachment is safe for the environment as it doesn¡¯t make use of any chemicals or liquids to aid in air purification. All of it happens through the zinc-phosphate conversion system.?
The filter, for now, has been designed for only one of Honda¡¯s models -- it's N-Box Kei microcar where the filter is placed on top of the regular air filter. As per Honda¡¯s claims, the filter can remove 99.8 percent virus droplets within 15 minutes of turning on a car¡¯s air conditioning, 99 percent after 24 hours. Although it is important to note that the brand doesn¡¯t specify the novel coronavirus.?
The filter can last a year or up to 9,300 miles, whichever comes sooner. It also goes without saying that it¡¯s just an air filter and it won¡¯t be able to cleanse viruses on door handles and other surfaces.?
Also, every time a door or window is opened, the filtration efforts could go moot and will have to be rebooted. But a filter like this could be helpful for cabs that see so many people travel in them.?
As of now, Kurumaku filter is only available in Japan, specifically for the Honda N-Box Kei, priced at a rather affordable $64 which is around Rs 4,500. Although Honda has promised that it will bring this to its other models too.
What do you think about this innovative new car filter technology developed by Japanese car manufacturer Honda? Let us know in the comments section below...