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HomeCarsWhy is it 50°C in your car when it's only 35°C outside?

Why is it 50°C in your car when it's only 35°C outside?

A well-known physical phenomenon explains why the interior of your vehicle can reach extreme temperatures in summer. Discover the reasons for this overheating and tips to effectively remedy it.

The greenhouse effect in your vehicle

Summer temperatures have been breaking records in recent years, turning the interiors of our cars into veritable furnaces. A difference of 15°C between the outside and the passenger compartment is not uncommon. Vincenzo Schettini, a physicist, explains this phenomenon on social networks.

The sun's rays penetrate through the vehicle's windows and heat the interior. The magnifying glass effect causes a rapid increase in temperature in just a few minutes. The confined space of the passenger compartment prevents heat dissipation, creating a greenhouse effect. The interior surfaces reflect the sun's rays, further amplifying the phenomenon.

The limits of air conditioning

Faced with these extreme temperatures, our first instinct is often to turn on the air conditioning at full blast. However, this solution is not always the most effective, especially if we want to save fuel.

In the first few moments, the air conditioning does not actually cool the passenger compartment. Instead, it helps circulate warm air throughout the interior space. Experts warn of the risk of damage to the air conditioning system if used excessively in these extreme conditions.

A Japanese trick revisited

Vincenzo Schettini recommends a technique inspired by a Japanese trick to quickly freshen up the interior of the vehicle. It involves opening the passenger side window while keeping the door closed. Then, use the driver's door to create a fan effect.

This method allows for generating an airflow inside the vehicle, thereby evacuating some of the accumulated heat. However, the physicist advises not to close the door completely during this maneuver to avoid damaging the closing mechanism. A simple back-and-forth movement is enough to create the desired air circulation.

Prevention is better than cure

To prevent your vehicle from turning into a sauna, there are a few simple precautions you can take. Park in the shade whenever possible. If you must park in direct sunlight, use a reflective sunshade to protect the windshield.

Tinted windows can also help reduce the heat that enters the cabin. Also, consider opening the windows slightly if you leave your vehicle parked in the sun for a long time. This will allow better air circulation and reduce heat build-up.

The importance of good ventilation

Before getting into your overheated vehicle, take the time to open all the doors for a few minutes. This simple action helps to evacuate a large part of the hot air accumulated inside.

Once installed, start the engine and turn on the ventilation at full blast, with the windows open, for the first few minutes of the journey. This method helps to expel any remaining hot air before switching on the air conditioning. This will allow the passenger compartment to cool more quickly and efficiently.

Technology at the service of comfort

Car manufacturers are developing innovative solutions to combat vehicle overheating. Some high-end models are equipped with seat ventilation systems, which can directly cool the occupants.

Other innovations include intelligent panoramic roofs that automatically darken depending on light intensity, limiting the penetration of solar rays. Reflective body coatings are also being studied to minimise heat absorption by the vehicle.

Finally, it is crucial to remember that these extreme temperatures in vehicles can represent a real danger, especially for children and animals. Never leave them alone in a car, even for a short time. The temperature can rise very quickly and have dramatic consequences.