Very Random, but I hope someone has some knowledge. Mechanic maybe?

[HappyReading]

We only have 1 family car, and looking to split the inside into two. Similar to a taxi, but the front and back will be completely sealed from each other. Shielded will be in the front and non-shielded in the back. I know shielded will be paused soon, but our DD is extremely unwell at the moment and we can’t take the risk.
My worry is about the recycled air in the car. We would be able to put coats on in the back and go without heating or aircon. The front will need heating to keep our DD warm and the windscreen clear. Does the air/heating/aircon in the car travel through the car and reused? We have a Kia Sportage. Hopefully someone will have a definitive answer. Thank you.

Who is travelling in the car?

There will be 4 of us. A parent who will be shielding DD and DD in the front.
The other parent and and DC in the back.
At present we are all shielding DD, but trying to work out if there is a way for us to use the car together safely.

If you’re all shielding together why do you need to be separated in the car?

If you have air vents under the front seats, you won't be able to separate the two air-wise unless you find a way of sealing them.
Would three of you in masks and DD without work?

Sorry, should have explained better. At present we are all shielding DD. Looking forward to sept and our other DD will need to go back to school and myself to work.

I’m just not sure if masks will be enough. I would rather an extra barrier too if possible.

You’re asking for an airtight separation, I can’t see it being a possibility. How old is DD, how about an N95 mask?

Yes, that’s what I would like to create.

She is able to wear masks. I can’t seem to find a website that’s sells N95 within the uk, and tbh I am getting mixed up about different grading etc. I have ordered a Cambridge mask, waiting on delivery.

I’m sorry your daughter is so ill, it must be very worrying. I hope you find a way to keep her as safe as possible.

I don't think you'll be able to get airtight separation in a standard car. Would getting a second car be an option? Or are you reliant on the other parent being able to drive you?

Just prefacing this by saying I know nowt about cars, but on my dash there is a dial which you can switch to change the airflow. One setting shows the air circulating inside the car and the other shows the air coming in from outside. Maybe check your manual to see if your car has a similar setting? And/or call the manufacturer?

www.amazon.co.uk/JaneDream-Protection-Transparent-Anti-Droplet-Protective/dp/B08724SFTW?tag=mumsnetforu03-21

What about this OP, I know taxis use them currently?

Second car isn’t really a solution, due to start times etc.

We have that airflow button on our car too, and I didn’t even think to check the manual. Contacting the manufacturer is a good idea, again I didn’t think to do this.

Cao77 - It’s something very similar we have been thinking to purchase before September. We will definitely have that in place, I’m just worried about recycled air inside the car. I’m not even sure if I’m being completely OTT or normal at this stage.

If I was the shielded one, I would be fine with sitting in the car with a mask on. As it’s our DD, I really can’t be that blasé about it.

Thank you all for your input, I’m very grateful.