Start up our 2009 Infiniti FX50 and a grape-cluster-shaped icon appears on the climate control display. For a while I wasn't sure what it meant, but I looked it up today. In addition to having an automatic air recirculation function, the FX50's climate control system has an ion-based air purifier.
Based on Sharp-branded technology, the "Plasmacluster" operates in two modes: Clean and Control. The cleaning mode emits positive and negative ions out of the air vents to "neutralize airborne particles" such as dust and pollen. The control mode just emits stabilizing negative ions. It's fully automated, so there's nothing you can do as the driver to control it, but you can at least tell what's going on as the color of the icon changes from blue (cleaning) to green (control).
This feature comes on the FX50 only and not the FX35. Without a scientific test, it's pretty hard to determine how effective it is at improving air quality. But for what it's worth, I will say that our FX does seem to keep out outside odors better than other cars I've driven with automatic fresh/recirc air functions.
Brent Romans, Senior Automotive Editor @ 16,398 miles
carfreak8394 says:
01:41 PM, 07/13/09
Hmm.. that's interesting. I always thought that the Toyota Camry (XLE and Hybrid only, I believe?) was the only one to have the Plasmacluster. I've also heard that they don't work very well in general, but that's another story..
carguy622 says:
01:42 PM, 07/13/09
Is there any additional maintance involved with the "Plasmacluster"? If not, than I'd say it's a nice idea.
Also, doesn't Toyota call the glowing green control faceplate on the Camry the "Plasmacluster"? It's a supid name that will be dated quickly.
Mad_Science says:
02:10 PM, 07/13/09
I thought you said "plasma cutter".
I got really confused and excited that maybe Infiniti's looking to one-up other SUVs that offer onboard air compressors.
bromans says:
02:17 PM, 07/13/09
The maintenance schedule and owner's manual don't say anything about extra service for the plasmacluster technology. -- Brent
SnakeDoctor says:
02:37 PM, 07/13/09
That was really interesting.
In the Camry Hybrid I thought Plasmacluster referred to the display, not to the air purifier.
That air purification system is popular in JPN for vehicles and home use, but I didn’t think it had much marketing potential in the U.S
I’m glad Nissan and Toyota are bringing it over.
misterfusion says:
05:06 PM, 07/13/09
Negative ionization really works as a method of air purification, but one side-effect is that the particles that have been removed from the air will end up on the walls and surfaces of the affected area. Presumably the FX50's cabin air filter counteracts this?
vviley says:
10:04 AM, 07/14/09
nothing like starting up your day with a fresh blast of ozone...