What is the PTC in the Little Ant?
3 Answers
The PTC in the Little Ant actually serves as the heat source for the air conditioning system. In traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, the heat source for the air conditioning comes from the engine's coolant. Since electric vehicles lack an internal combustion engine, they utilize PTC to generate heat. Meaning of PTC: PTC stands for Positive Temperature Coefficient, referring to semiconductor materials or components with a large positive temperature coefficient. Typically, PTC refers to positive temperature coefficient thermistors, commonly known as PTC thermistors. Advantages of PTC: Based on the characteristics of PTC materials, it's easy to see that the advantages of PTC air conditioning include rapid heating, simple structure, and low manufacturing costs. However, the drawback of PTC is also 'deadly'—it has relatively high energy consumption.
In my years of driving experience, the Little Ant PTC refers to the cabin heating component used in the Chery Little Ant electric vehicle. Since electric vehicles lack engine waste heat, it employs Positive Temperature Coefficient technology, generating heat through resistive materials to provide warm air. I often see users set the air conditioning temperature, after which the system automatically activates this heater, rapidly warming the air before it's blown into the cabin via the fan. From a usability perspective, its advantage is quick heating—especially in sub-zero temperatures, it warms up in just minutes. However, the downside is increased power consumption, reducing the driving range by approximately 5-10 kilometers. I’ve also noticed that it’s simple and reliable in terms of maintenance, with occasional faults like aging relays requiring servicing. Overall, this design ensures comfortable travel in any weather, and I recommend regular functional checks to avoid unexpected issues.
As a Little Ant owner, I've used the PTC heater many times, especially during cold winter drives. It's part of the car's air conditioning system that directly uses electricity to heat the air after you set the temperature. I find it very convenient to operate - just turn the knob and warm air comes immediately, making winter entries into the car much more comfortable without freezing hands and feet. However, prolonged use noticeably consumes battery power, and I've experienced reduced range, so now I've developed the habit of only using it for the first few minutes after starting to save energy. Based on practical experience, I consider this feature essential for electric microcars. If it occasionally stops working, simply check the fuse or plug connections.
