BMW is on the verge of a groundbreaking revolution in automotive aesthetics - colour-changing cars that could be on our roads in the near future, perhaps as soon as 2027, according to sources.
The German automotive giant is developing a revolutionary technology using E Ink, famously known from e-readers like Amazon's Kindle line, to allow car owners to change their car's colour on demand.
Dr Stella Clarke, the mastermind behind this technology, envisions a future where "in a car factory, you no longer have the traditional spray-painting cabins, but rather everything gets [E Ink] and every car can do every colour".
This would mark a seismic shift in automotive personalisation, allowing owners to match their car's colour to their mood, the weather or even their outfit.
From concept to reality
BMW first unveiled its colour-changing ink back in 2022. Since then, the technology has made significant strides, capable of displaying intricate patterns and a range of colours, all changeable instantaneously. BMW showcased this advancement earlier this year with an intricately designed colour-shifting art car inspired by African heritage.
While some doubted its commercial viability, Dr Clarke is optimistic. She admits that the technology may initially be expensive, targeting a selective market, but hopes to see it become more widespread in the future.
The appeal of E Ink goes beyond the sheer novelty of colour-changing cars. The technology also offers practical advantages.
In hot weather, a car's colour could be switched from black to white to reduce heat absorption, potentially improving fuel efficiency and comfort
The system is also remarkably energy-efficient, drawing only about 20 watts to change the entire car's colour, equivalent to a single light bulb.
Of course, with such a groundbreaking technology come regulatory challenges. Concerns about driver distraction have led Dr Clarke to suggest that colour changes should only be allowed when the car is stationary.
While the cost of repairs for such cars might be high, for many, the price of such unprecedented style and functionality could be well worth it.
