Color matching and coordination may entice you to purchase multiple vehicles in different colors. BMW aims to simplify your life by developing a color-changing car that can adapt to its environment and your attire with the simple push of a button.
The technology used in the car to change its color combines an advanced e-reader screen version (such as the Nook or Kindle) and vinyl wrap advertising graphics. This super thin wrap perfectly adheres to the dimensions of the fully electric SUV and is precisely cut using lasers to fit the body panel.
BMW has announced that the wrap contains millions of microcapsules that are approximately the same thickness as a single human hair. Each capsule contains black pigment and white pigment. By applying electricity, the charge is activated, causing the pigments to swap places and change the color of the vehicle.
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In 2021, BMW introduced the first version of the iX Flow, which was the world’s pioneering color-changing vehicle. However, it only had the capability to change between two colors. The manufacturer made an appearance at the 2023 Consumer Electronics Show with an updated version of the technology, now offering 32 colors and 240 individual segments.
The process of creating color-changing skin for vehicles is both laser and labor-intensive. BMW claims that the E Ink technology is energy-efficient as it only consumes power during the color change process and doesn’t require power to maintain the color change.
Additionally, BMW asserts that vehicles equipped with this technology are more energy-efficient. By changing the color to white or other light shades in the summer, the car can reflect sun rays, keeping the interior cooler. Conversely, switching to dark colors in the winter can help warm the cabin.
BMW states that the color-changing technology is an in-house project currently undergoing testing and refinement. The focus is on improving the panel’s resistance to damage caused by road debris and car washes, as such damage could render the technology unusable. The main concern at the moment is the price, but we are hopeful that these cars will be available for purchase in the near future!