If you believe there's an excessive amount of technology in cars, prepare to be amazed. Nissan is developing a novel exterior automotive paint that harnesses electromagnetic waves to maintain both the surface and interior at a cooler temperature. Although it's currently in the testing phase, initial results are highly encouraging.
Nissan is collaborating with Radi-Cool, a company renowned for its cooling products. Radiative paint, such as this, is not a novel idea—it has been employed on buildings for years to help keep interiors cooler. However, as Nissan points out, those applications require a very thick paint that lacks the durability and shine of automotive finishes. Additionally, it's applied using a roller, which is not an ideal method for painting cars.
This new formulation is intended for use with spray guns and is compatible with clear topcoats. Despite being six times thicker than a standard automotive finish, it contains two microstructure components that enhance its cooling capabilities. The first component is designed to reflect near-infrared rays, a common method for reducing heat. The second component is where the scientific innovation lies. It generates electromagnetic waves that counteract the sun's rays, preventing heat transfer to other parts of the car.
Dr. Susumu Miura, the senior manager of this project, stated, "My dream is to create cooler cars without consuming energy." He emphasized the importance of this technology in the era of electric vehicles, where air-conditioning in summer can significantly impact the state of charge. Nissan hasn't disclosed the details of the paint or how the electromagnetic waves are generated, but the results are compelling. Tests show a 12-degree Celsius drop in exterior surface temperature, with a 5-degree Celsius decrease in the interior.
When will you be able to order a Nissan Z or Rogue with this "cool" paint? Development is still in progress, with Nissan aiming to make the paint thinner for easier application. If it reaches production, it will likely be available for special-order vehicles.
