How Does an Active Grille Shutter Work?

[McMary]

Luxury cars are generally equipped with active grille shutters. The active grille shutter automatically adjusts its opening based on the engine temperature, achieving rapid warm-up effects and allowing the engine to reach its optimal operating state in the shortest time possible. This is particularly beneficial in cold winters, as faster warm-up means passengers can enjoy warm air sooner. Temperature significantly impacts engine performance, and an engine operating at its optimal temperature is most fuel-efficient. Therefore, accelerating the engine's transition to the optimal working temperature in cold conditions indirectly improves fuel economy. More details about active grille shutters are as follows: 1. Introduction: The grille is the window through which the engine exchanges air with the external environment, typically installed in the front grille or ahead of the engine compartment. Standard grilles remain fixed in an open state to allow air intake for the engine and to cool it using external air. In contrast, active grille shutters can automatically adjust their opening based on engine temperature and vehicle speed, eliminating the need for manual control by the driver. They enable the engine to reach its optimal working temperature quickly, speeding up warm-up in winter and delivering warm air to the cabin sooner. Additionally, they reduce aerodynamic drag during driving, enhancing vehicle stability and fuel efficiency. 2. Engine Temperature: When a car is first started, especially in cold winters, the engine temperature is low. At this point, the active grille shutter automatically closes to prevent external cold air from entering the engine, allowing the interior to fill with warm air and helping the engine reach its optimal working temperature as quickly as possible. Once the engine reaches a certain temperature, the grille opens to prevent overheating, maintaining the optimal working temperature. 3. Vehicle Speed: If the grille remains open continuously, it increases aerodynamic drag, adding to the vehicle's driving burden and increasing fuel consumption. The active grille shutter adjusts its opening appropriately based on vehicle speed and engine temperature, reducing drag and improving stability. Moreover, with reduced burden and the engine consistently maintaining optimal temperature, fuel burns more efficiently, leading to lower fuel consumption.