Ford software update can turn your car to a heat-based virus zapper

MANILA: Ford has turned one of its models, currently available only in the US and Canada as a law enforcement vehicle, into a self-sanitizing machine that can kill the COVID-19 virus.

Via a simple software update, the powertrain and climate control system are able to work together to automatically to raise the cabin temperature to a baking-level of 56-degrees Celsius for 15 straight minutes, which renders all viruses inside inactivated.

The feature initially revs the engine to get it to an elevated level while both heat and fan settings operate on high. As this is happening, the software monitors interior temperatures until the cabin hits peak levels, which is when it will maintain that temperature for 15 minutes.

Before implementing the update, the Detroit automaker consulted with Ohio State University to make sure the set the right temperature and duration to eliminate the COVID-19 virus.

“Our studies with Ford Motor Company indicate that exposing coronaviruses to temperatures of 56 degrees Celsius, or 132.8 degrees Fahrenheit, for 15 minutes reduces the viral concentration by greater than 99 percent on interior surfaces and materials used inside Police Interceptor Utility vehicles,” said Jeff Jahnes and Jesse Kwiek, laboratory supervisors at The Ohio State University department of microbiology.

While outside the vehicle, law enforcement officers can check the progress of the sanitation process from the lighting system. The hazard lights and taillights will flash in a pre-set pattern to signal the start. It will change when the procedure ends and the cool-down process begins. The progress can also be observed on the instrument cluster

The software update has been implemented on 2013-19 Ford Police Interceptor Utility units.

“First responders are on the front lines protecting all of us. They are exposed to the virus and are in dire need of protective measures. We looked at what’s in our arsenal and how we could step up to help. In this case, we’ve turned the vehicle’s powertrain and heat control systems into a virus neutralizer,” said Hau Thai-Tang, Ford chief product development and purchasing officer.

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