Air Conditioning isn’t just for Summer

The difference that air conditioning has made to driver comfort is incredible. Without air conditioning we used to either drive with the windows open in summer – and collect a face full of road grime as a consequence, or simply sit and smoulder, each a victim of our own personal greenhouse effect. Neither option is conducive to arriving fresh and clean, a prerequisite surely of any meeting, whether it be for business or pleasure.

Automotive air conditioning units are designed to work in a given volume of air and at average temperatures. So, if the temperatures outside soar above average the air conditioning system has to work harder. Or, if the volume of air being treated is increased, then the air conditioner has to work even harder still to do its job.

A snap survey of drivers by Aardvark Associates revealed that most drivers don’t know how to operate their car’s air conditioning. Most believe that it is only for hot days. Of those who use their air conditioning, some condition fresh air rather than recirculating air.

According to limousine manufacturer Binz, the air conditioning is a tool that should be used to provide a stable cabin atmosphere for passengers irrespective of the ambient temperature. Technical Director, Lee Smith says, "As an air conditioning unit removes moisture from the cabin air, it is a useful tool for our hot humid summers and cold damp winters alike. From a safety perspective it prevents the windows from misting up and obscuring vision and can help to combat the onset of drowsiness. For the passengers, removing the irritant of excessive humidity allows occupants to arrive at their destination relaxed and alert, without the body needing to make sudden adjustments when stepping from vehicle to hotel foyer, theatre or corporate office.

"The fact that air conditioning is usually set at cool temperatures is, I suppose, an historical legacy. The reality is that operating the air conditioning in conjunction with the vehicle heating system ensures a comfortable cabin humidity level all year round."

Binz Limousines go one stage further, given that the volume of air in a limousine is over a third greater than in a conventional E-class, each Binz limousine is fitted as standard with Mercedes-Benz’ Middle East specification air conditioning (the only coachbuilt E-class limousines to be so equipped). That means the units have to work less to manage the increased air volume and as a consequence are more efficient at drying the air in the cabin: a clear advantage on the many shorter journeys typical of limousine use in the UK.