Replace Seat Heating with Ventilation for Cyberster

[Complexart]

Hi everyone,
I'm exploring the idea of replacing the seat heating function with seat ventilation in my car. Ideally, I'd like to control the new ventilation setup using the existing center console screen—essentially repurposing the heating controls for cooling instead.


Given how hot it gets in Singapore (and similarly in Malaysia and Thailand), I think this mod could be a game-changer for comfort. Has anyone here attempted something like this? Would love to hear your experience or any tips on how to get started.

 

[GranTurismoEra]

Doesnt that involve either retrimming the seats after fitting hot/cold panels or changing the seats altogether. Then modifying the software to accompany it. Sounds like a project. I remember before the cars release we were asking about these and air scarf. But i guess it wasn't in their plans. Im sure youll also possibly need a different type of leather/alcantara ones with tiny holes in it.

 

[Complexart]

I'm definitely open to retrimming. At 191cm tall, I find it much more comfortable when the seat is lowered by around 3cm and reclined back about 5cm. I’ve tried the 10-second press to push it until it touches the rear cabin wall—so yes, retrim sounds good.

As for controls, that’s my main concern. I don’t expect it to interfere with the software or firmware in the control module, but if integration with the center panel isn’t feasible, I’m fine with manual control side buttons on the seat.

And yes, I’m on board with perforated leather or alcantara too—tiny holes and all.

 

[CybersterWatcher]

Seat heating is relatively easy - its just a resistive wire that gets hot.

Cooling is much more difficult, you're going to need a peltier unit to create a 'cold' side (where you sit) and a 'hot' side (underneath the seat). That could wire into the existing seating controls without any major issues.

That will involve retrimming the seats and potentially re-engineering them too, depending on how they're built.

 

[Complexart]

I will pick the fan method. Peltier will create condensation.

 

[CybersterWatcher]

I think fan may be just as difficult.

From an engineering perspective I think fans are going to be more of a headache. They won't blow through the seat foam which means adding vents and finding a location for the fans too.

I saw a Reddit thread asking the same but with concerns about this method


I did find this which shows how they did it with a custom sysem - it required a lot of custom modifications

 

[GranTurismoEra]

I'm definitely open to retrimming. At 191cm tall, I find it much more comfortable when the seat is lowered by around 3cm and reclined back about 5cm. I’ve tried the 10-second press to push it until it touches the rear cabin wall—so yes, retrim sounds good.

As for controls, that’s my main concern. I don’t expect it to interfere with the software or firmware in the control module, but if integration with the center panel isn’t feasible, I’m fine with manual control side buttons on the seat.

And yes, I’m on board with perforated leather or alcantara too—tiny holes and all.

A retrim with a thinner lower base. Although the Cyberster seats are literally on the floor. I remember my recaro seats in the 370Z Nismo had a thin base on the floor. So its possible to gain an inch or so maybe. Or a seat that goes lower. Then airbags, controls etc with or without.

If SAIC are seeing this they should consider heated/cooled seats in the future along with air scarf. I bet this vegan leather isnt cheap either.

SAIC are stuck on the skateboard setup on their cars. Maybe they should consider a box battery behind the driver in future applications. But that would apply more to 2 seater or 4 seater coupes and roadsters..This will allow lower seating.

 

[Complexart]

I think fan may be just as difficult.

From an engineering perspective I think fans are going to be more of a headache. They won't blow through the seat foam which means adding vents and finding a location for the fans too.

I saw a Reddit thread asking the same but with concerns about this method


I did find this which shows how they did it with a custom sysem - it required a lot of custom modifications

This work for cooler seats on a 365 summer in Singapore. Worth it.

A retrim with a thinner lower base. Although the Cyberster seats are literally on the floor. I remember my recaro seats in the 370Z Nismo had a thin base on the floor. So its possible to gain an inch or so maybe. Or a seat that goes lower. Then airbags, controls etc with or without.

If SAIC are seeing this they should consider heated/cooled seats in the future along with air scarf. I bet this vegan leather isnt cheap either.

SAIC are stuck on the skateboard setup on their cars. Maybe they should consider a box battery behind the driver in future applications. But that would apply more to 2 seater or 4 seater coupes and roadsters..This will allow lower seating.

Please correct me if I am wrong, As far as I can see form the manual there only frontal air bag on the dash and steering.