In collaboration with E Ink, BMW has developed technology that allows its iX electric SUV to change its body color instantly. This system may seem a little gadget at first glance, but it might prove to be useful for the thermal regulation of the vehicle.
Source : BMW
For the aficionados from GTA, who has never changed the body color of his vehicle following a short walk in his garage, to end a frantic chase with the police? This little sleight of hand might well become reality with BMW, which is demonstrating it on its Electric SUV iX, as part of the CES 2022, which is being held this week in Las Vegas.
Wow effect guaranteed
For the occasion, the firm from across the Rhine has renamed its vehicle BMW iX Flow, the result of a partnership with E Ink, known for its electronic ink technology. The idea is simple: instantly, you can change the exterior color of your automobile. A demo video has already been posted on the @klwtts twitter account.
BMW HAS A COLOR CHANGING CAR IN LAS VEGAS RIGHT NOW! #CES2022 pic.twitter.com/vgKMDiRedE
— The Kilowatts ????⚡️ (@klwtts) January 5, 2022
Let’s be honest: the wow effect is real. In less than 2 seconds, the BMW iX changes from white to metallic gray in a very fluid and eye-pleasing manner. “In the future, digital experiences will not be limited to screens. There will be more and more fusion between the real and the virtual», Imagines Frank Weber, member of the board of directors of BMW AG.
Broaden the spectrum of personalization
This system, which might seem very gadget and innocuous at first glance, nevertheless opens up a new spectrum and much greater possibilities in terms of personalization. Changing the appearance of your vehicle according to your wishes, current aesthetic preferences, mood or even environmental conditions becomes possible.
Source : BMW
BMW also addresses the issue of thermal regulation of a car. Colors have various properties, which might impact the user’s choice. This is because white reflects more sunlight. If the weather is hot, this shade may be preferred to contain the heat in your interior as much as possible – when the car is parked, for example.
On the contrary, if the temperatures are cooler, a black tint can remain an interesting solution to absorb more heat. “In this context, the BMW Group is encouraging the development of this technology so that a new form of customization can be experienced on the exterior and interior of future production models.», We can read.
How does this technology work?
To perform this little magic trick, the BMW iX Flow relies on electrophoretic technology. A body envelope made up of several million microcapsules the size of a human hair (in thickness) is stimulated by electrical signals. This process allows multiple color pigments to be displayed on the surface.
We can’t wait to see what first electric car series will marry this surprising technology to say the least. Even so, you imagine, this little feat will probably pay off.
The BMW brand has revealed the M60 version of its iX electric SUV at CES 2022. Already available in France, this model puts the package on performance… for a very expensive price.
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