Sensata Launches R290 Pressure and Temperature Sensor for Propane EV Thermal Systems
The integrated sensor supports automakers evaluating low-GWP, PFAS-free refrigerants for electrified platforms.
Sensata Technologies has introduced the R290 P+T Sensor, a combined pressure and temperature device designed for electrified vehicle thermal management systems utilizing propane refrigerant.
What Happened
The new sensor is intended for automotive air conditioning and thermal management systems in battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and other electrified platforms that use R290 refrigerant. According to Sensata, the integrated component allows for accurate monitoring of refrigerant conditions by comparing measured temperature against the saturation temperature implied by pressure at the same circuit location. This data is critical for calculating superheat and subcooling, which helps manage HVAC and heat pump loops while meeting strict leakage and safety requirements.
Why It Matters
Automakers are increasingly evaluating refrigerants with low global warming potential (GWP) and no per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Propane, or R290, contains no fluorine, avoiding PFAS concerns, but it is classified as A3 flammable, necessitating rigorous leakage controls. Because cabin heating and battery conditioning draw from the traction pack, the efficiency of heat pump systems directly impacts winter range. Sensata states that the sensor’s leakage-optimized design helps minimize refrigerant loss over the vehicle's lifetime, while its accuracy—listed as better than 1% of full scale within the core range—supports improved system control and diagnostics in complex thermal architectures.
The Bottom Line
Sensata’s R290 P+T Sensor offers analog, LIN, or SENT output options and fast temperature response, providing automakers with a specialized tool for managing the safety and efficiency challenges of propane-based EV thermal systems.
