Abstract: A method of initializing operation of a shutter arranged relative to a grille opening in a vehicle having a power-plant includes detecting a start-up of the power-plant. The method also includes sensing a temperature of ambient air. The method also includes commanding the shutter to achieve a fully-opened position when the temperature of ambient air is above a predetermined value such that a flow of ambient air to the power-plant through the grille opening is substantially unrestricted. The method additionally includes commanding the shutter to achieve a fully-closed position when a temperature of the power-plant is maintained below a threshold value such that the flow of ambient air through the grille opening to the power-plant is substantially blocked. A vehicle using a controller configured to perform the above method is also provided.

Abstract: A fresh air inlet system includes an inlet panel defining first windows and second windows, offset from the first windows. An inlet baffle is below the inlet panel and an outlet baffle is opposite the inlet panel from the inlet baffle. The outlet baffle at least partially defines an outlet plenum providing air-flow communication to an induction duct. A longitudinal flow section is defined between the inlet baffle and the inlet panel. A first vertical flow section is defined by the first windows and a second vertical flow section is defined by the second windows. The first vertical flow section is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal flow section and the second vertical flow section is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal flow section. Therefore, intake air flows successively from the longitudinal flow section to the first vertical flow section, to the second vertical flow section, and to the induction duct.

Abstract: A boot-like shroud or cover that forms a compressive seal around the charging receptacle of an electric vehicle is provided to shield a charging port housing and a charging port hinge pocket. The boot-like shroud or cover may be configured as an integral part of the charging handle or a separate part that easily attaches to the handle for outdoor use. The part may also be suitable for use in conjunction with multiple vehicle types.

Abstract: A fresh air inlet system includes an inlet panel defining first windows and second windows, offset from the first windows. An inlet baffle is below the inlet panel and an outlet baffle is opposite the inlet panel from the inlet baffle. The outlet baffle at least partially defines an outlet plenum providing air-flow communication to an induction duct. A longitudinal flow section is defined between the inlet baffle and the inlet panel. A first vertical flow section is defined by the first windows and a second vertical flow section is defined by the second windows. The first vertical flow section is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal flow section and the second vertical flow section is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal flow section. Therefore, intake air flows successively from the longitudinal flow section to the first vertical flow section, to the second vertical flow section, and to the induction duct.

Abstract: A boot-like shroud or cover that forms a compressive seal around the charging receptacle of an electric vehicle is provided to shield a charging port housing and a charging port hinge pocket. The boot-like shroud or cover may be configured as an integral part of the charging handle or a separate part that easily attaches to the handle for outdoor use. The part may also be suitable for use in conjunction with multiple vehicle types.

Abstract: A method of controlling operation of an adjustable shutter adapted for varying an amount of airflow to cool a powertrain in a vehicle includes monitoring the ambient temperature. The method also includes sensing an increase in the ambient temperature up to a threshold temperature value. The method additionally includes changing a position of the shutter after a predetermined amount of time has elapsed following the increase in the ambient temperature up to the threshold temperature value. A vehicle using a controller to perform such a method is also provided.

Abstract: A method of initializing operation of a shutter arranged relative to a grille opening in a vehicle having a power-plant includes detecting a start-up of the power-plant. The method also includes sensing a temperature of ambient air. The method also includes commanding the shutter to achieve a fully-opened position when the temperature of ambient air is above a predetermined value such that a flow of ambient air to the power-plant through the grille opening is substantially unrestricted. The method additionally includes commanding the shutter to achieve a fully-closed position when a temperature of the power-plant is maintained below a threshold value such that the flow of ambient air through the grille opening to the power-plant is substantially blocked. A vehicle using a controller configured to perform the above method is also provided.

Abstract: A method of controlling operation of an adjustable shutter adapted for varying an amount of airflow to cool a powertrain in a vehicle includes monitoring the ambient temperature. The method also includes sensing an increase in the ambient temperature up to a threshold temperature value. The method additionally includes changing a position of the shutter after a predetermined amount of time has elapsed following the increase in the ambient temperature up to the threshold temperature value. A vehicle using a controller to perform such a method is also provided.