Traditional automotive finishes are designed to look good and last, but they often absorb significant amounts of heat, making cars hotter, especially in warmer climates. Nissan's new paint seeks to change that by incorporating electromagnetic waves into its composition, which effectively reduce the amount of heat absorbed by the car's surface.

The paint contains two microstructure components, each playing a crucial role in its cooling capability. The first component reflects near-infrared rays, which are notorious for increasing heat. The second component, which is truly innovative, generates electromagnetic waves that not only counteract the sun’s rays but also prevent heat transfer to other parts of the vehicle. This dual action results in a significant decrease in both surface and interior temperatures.

Preliminary testing of the paint has yielded impressive results. Cars coated with this special finish exhibit a temperature drop of 12 degrees Celsius on the exterior surface, with the interior also being cooler by 5 degrees Celsius. Such a reduction in temperature could potentially reduce the need for air conditioning, which is particularly beneficial in electric vehicles where energy conservation is paramount.

One of the primary challenges in developing this paint was maintaining the durability and shine of a standard automotive finish. Traditional radiative paints used in buildings, for example, are typically applied with a roller and lack the luster and durability required for automotive applications. Nissan’s solution, however, is designed for use with spray guns and can be paired with clear topcoats, providing the needed durability and aesthetic appeal.

Despite these advancements, the paint is currently six times thicker than a standard automotive finish, presenting challenges in application. Nissan is working to refine the formula to make it thinner and more practical for widespread use. As Dr. Susumu Miura, the senior manager of the project, expressed, "My dream is to create cooler cars without consuming energy. This is especially important in the EV era, where the load from running air-conditioning in summer can have a sizable impact on the state of charge."

While Nissan has not yet announced when this innovative paint will be available to consumers, its development represents a significant step forward in automotive technology. If brought to market, this paint will likely be a special-order option, potentially revolutionizing the way we think about automotive finishes and environmental comfort.

As the world continues to grapple with the effects of climate change and the automotive industry shifts towards electric vehicles, innovations like Nissan’s electromagnetic paint are crucial. By reducing the heat inside and outside the car without relying on energy-consuming systems, this paint represents a promising avenue for more sustainable and comfortable driving experiences.