Honda develops virus-killing “mask” for cabin filters

Honda develops virus-killing “mask” for cabin filters

In response to the coronavirus pandemic, Honda has launched a new product designed to kill viruses inside your car. This antiviral “mask”, which sits on top of the cabin air filter, is called Kurumask and is being released by the company’s Access division as an accessory for the newly-facelifted N-Box kei car.

Unlike the N95 filters introduced by Geely (and by extension, Proton) and other companies soon after the pandemic hit, this mesh covering isn’t meant to keep particles from entering the cabin in the first place. Instead, its primary purpose is to catch virus-infected droplets circulating in the interior and damage the viruses using its unique surface shape.

This antiviral property is thanks to a zinc phosphate conversion treatment – the same kind used to prevent rust on vehicle bodies. Honda is making big claims with Kurumask, saying it will remove 99.8% or more of virus droplets floating in the cabin in 15 minutes and reduce the number of viruses found on interior surfaces by 99.9% within 24 hours.

Honda also says that since Kurumask doesn’t use chemicals to kill viruses, the risk of the viruses themselves becoming resistant to it is lower. While it’s only offered on the N-Box for now, the company will gradually expand its availability to other models. The product is being sold at authorised dealers in Japan at a retail price of 7,040 yen (RM270).

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Jonathan Lee

After trying to pursue a career in product design, Jonathan Lee decided to make the sideways jump into the world of car journalism instead. He therefore appreciates the aesthetic appeal of a car, but for him, the driving experience is still second to none.

 

Comments

  • Giddy Kaur on Jan 04, 2021 at 11:04 am

    As usual could only catches 99% weak viruses, meanwhile the remaining free 1% super virus roams freely destroying your health and mortality…..

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 7 Thumb down 0
    • Jeremy on Jan 04, 2021 at 3:22 pm

      Trusting Honda is like trusting their Takata airbags to save your life and their Denso fuel pumps wont suddenly kong on you. Fool me once shame on you, fool me twice shame on me, fool me thrice….?

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 6 Thumb down 2
      • You literally just mentioned both of those products aren’t even made by Honda. So you’re definitely a fool.

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
  • Buy Honda, safe by Honda on Jan 04, 2021 at 11:16 am

    Now, sitting in honda car is safer than sitting at home or office.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 1
  • Alihms on Jan 04, 2021 at 1:02 pm

    I wonder if tech like this really work. ? If it does work as per claimed, why was it not used in other situations? 98.8% removal rate is not perfect, but it is far, far better than nothing. We do not see health officials / gov recommending it in areas such as public transports, offices, or even hospitals. Proprietary tech? Or just another snake oil product?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 0
 

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