Scientific method for lowering vehicle cabin temperature during heatwaves

Hannah Fry, a British mathematician and professor at the University of Cambridge, has proposed a mechanical technique to quickly cool vehicle interiors exposed to extreme heat. Data indicates that when external temperatures reach 40°C, interior cabin temperatures can rise to 74°C in 30 minutes and stabilize near 86°C within an hour, with surfaces like steering wheels potentially exceeding 100°C. To mitigate this, Fry suggests opening the rear passenger window and repeatedly swinging the driver's door back and forth. This action functions like a large fan, creating a pressure differential that forces hot air out while drawing in cooler ambient air. This method is intended as an alternative to immediately activating the air conditioning system, which consumes fuel and puts mechanical strain on the engine. The technique effectively lowers the air temperature inside the cabin, but does not cool surfaces that have already absorbed significant thermal energy, such as seats or dashboards. The advice is particularly relevant for regions facing temperatures of 40°C or higher.