UFI, a global leader in filtration and thermal management solutions, has announced that cabin air filters for the Tesla Model Y, one of the world's best-selling electric cars, are now available in its UFI and SOFIMA aftermarket catalogues. The Tesla Model Y’s cabin air filtration is distinctive in that it involves two identical units for each of the two types of filters provided: a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air Filter) and an activated carbon filter.

HEPA filters are responsible for retaining not only the tiniest particles, but also biocontaminants such as viruses, bacteria and spores; while activated carbon filters prevent gas molecules and strong smells from entering the cabin. Both parts are now available in the UFI and SOFIMA catalogues as separate sets by part number, to allow easy distinction between the HEPA set (53.519.00) and the carbon set (54.531.00).

UFI HEPA filters for Tesla Model Y are manufactured in the company’s Ostrava factory (Czech Republic) where, in line with the strictest regulatory standards, production takes place in completely clean conditions to avoid any risk of contamination. HEPA filters are generally intended for use in ventilation systems in hospitals and medical facilities, as well as in ‘clean rooms’ where the air must be purified of all particles and contaminants. As a result, the filtration level of a HEPA filter is much higher than that of traditional cabin filters. 

HEPA cabin filters from UFI Filters are made with special membranes that achieve a filtration efficiency of 99.975% for particles smaller than 0.3 μm, which is 1,000 times smaller than the diameter of a hair. Thanks to this technology the vast majority of biocontaminant in the air, such as spores, bacteria and, most importantly, viruses, are trapped in the filter, as well as fine dust.

A key characteristic of HEPA cabin filters is their large size. This is due to their high filter performance – a large area of filter media is needed in order to avoid rapid clogging and the consequently reduced air flow into the cabin. The size of HEPA filters therefore makes them particularly suitable for electric vehicles, whose propulsion systems can accommodate more space for the air filtration system for internal ventilation.

The activated carbon filter for Tesla Model Y offered to the Aftermarket by UFI Filters has the task of filtering out gas molecules and unpleasant smells. To achieve this, it employs a filter media with particularly high-performance activated carbon, produced in the Chinese UFI GREEN plant in Xiuzhou Jiaxing, Zhejiang province. Production takes place on lines run with maximum attention to cleanliness, while respecting important sustainability criteria – starting with the energy used, which is generated by photovoltaic systems.

Tesla recommends the joint replacement of the Model Y’s HEPA and activated carbon cabin filters every three years, or more frequently if environmental conditions dictate.