Watergen: Fresh and filtered water extracted from humidity in the air, available anytime and anywhere

› Israeli company extracts drinking water from humidity in the air
› Patented process works like a particularly efficient air conditioner
› UV light kills viruses and bacteria and breaks down chemicals

Mladá Boleslav, 23. May 2022 – The ŠKODA AFRIQ boasts a drinking water generator from Watergen. The innovative company from Israel has grown from a local technology company to one of the world’s leading suppliers of atmospheric drinking water treatment systems. With its patented process, Watergen extracts drinking water from the humidity of the ambient air and can thus generate drinking water even in a desert.

Under the expert supervision, the apprentices from the ŠKODA Vocational School have added a very special detail to the ŠKODA AFRIQ with the drinking water generator from Watergen: the racing vehicle designed for the desert rally can provide its occupants with clean and chilled drinking water whenever they need it. By installing a unit in the AFRIQ, ŠKODA AUTO is raising awareness of this technology that can help to combat water shortages in desert regions such as North Africa. In addition, eliminating the need for single-use water bottles reduces plastic waste and thus the carbon footprint.

Generating drinking water from atmospheric moisture is one of the most important and innovative methods of water production. Watergen is a pioneer in this field and has patented its technology. Founded in 2009, the company owns a total of 42 patents and distributes its products in more than 85 countries. Watergen also works with governments and NGOs to address water scarcity in many regions of the world. There are four steps in Watergen’s process for extracting water from the air: First, a fan sucks in the air; an integrated filter removes dust and dirt. The purified air is passed through the GENius heat exchanger, where it condenses the water. The water then passes through a cascade filter for a further purification and mineralisation. During this process, UV light destroys microorganisms and breaks down harmful chemicals. The water is then stored in a reservoir where it circulates continuously. UV light is again utilized to kill any residual viruses and bacteria.

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The Watergen portfolio includes various products for industrial and private use, as well as versions with an internal water tank for in-vehicle operation. The ŠKODA AFRIQ employs a customised solution using existing components. The tank is located on the left side of the tailgate in the same box as the water filtration, mineralisation and UV treatment. The cup holder, dispenser and control display are all linked and mounted on the dashboard. The water flows into the cup and is stopped at the push of a button. At the same time, the display shows the fill level of the water tank as well as the ambient air temperature and humidity. The main unit, which includes the fan, air filter, GENius heat exchanger, condenser and compressor, is located behind the two seats in the rear of the AFRIQ. This is where the air is drawn in, cooled and condensed into water. The system is fully integrated into the vehicle and can produce up to 20 litres of drinking water a day, depending on external conditions such as air temperature and humidity. Watergen’s largest stationary systems can produce up to 6,000 litres of water every day.