Unlike conventional ultraviolet sterilization, which can pose risks to the skin and eyes upon direct exposure, Hyundai Motor and Kia’s newly developed Plasma Care UVC utilizes far-ultraviolet C (Far-UVC) light in the 200 to 230 nanometer (nm) range. This specific wavelength delivers high energy for an effective sanitizing effect, while its limited penetration depth is designed to remain on the outer keratin layer of human skin without reaching deeper layers. In contrast, bacteria and viruses lack this protective barrier, allowing Far-UVC light to penetrate and destroy their DNA.

By effectively targeting bacteria and microorganisms, Plasma Care UVC also helps remove odor-causing substances produced during their proliferation, creating a more pleasant cabin environment.

Hyundai Motor and Kia successfully adapted Far-UVC technology for use in vehicle cabin environments by developing a compact, durable system powered by a specialized plasma lamp and reinforced with advanced safety controls.

While conventional UVC (255 to 280 nm) is restricted to enclosed spaces—such as toothbrush sterilizers and vehicle glove boxes—because direct human exposure to this wavelength can be harmful, Far-UVC (200 to 230 nm) is designed for use in occupied environments such as hospitals and schools.

Hyundai and Kia adopted a plasma lamp to generate Far-UVC (200 to 230 nm) wavelengths, which are difficult to achieve with conventional LED technology. These are developed with consideration for occupied-cabin environments, while supporting effective cabin treatment and sanitization.

The lamp even has a specialized optical filter to provide an additional layer of protection, intended to support the emission of only controlled Far-UVC wavelengths.

Validating the technology’s efficacy, Hyundai Motor and Kia conducted various tests in collaboration with certified testing bodies and specialized research institutions including the Seoul National University’s Agriculture and Life Sciences Venture Center and Korea Automotive Technology Institute (KATECH). In both cases, it was confirmed that there was a 99.9 percent eradication rate of pneumonia-causing bacteria and Escherichia coli (E. coli).