The innovation involves an automotive paint created in collaboration with Radi-Cool, a company specialising in radiative cooling products. This paint contains metamaterial, which is a synthetic composite material with unique properties. The aim is to lower a vehicle’s cabin temperature during summer and reduce the energy consumption of the air-conditioning system.
Nissan conducted a 12-month feasibility trial at Tokyo International Air Terminal at Haneda in collaboration with Japan Airport Terminal Co., Ltd., Radi-Cool Japan, and All Nippon Airways (ANA) airport service. During the trial, Nissan’s cool paint was applied to a Nissan NV100 service vehicle operated by All Nippon Airways (ANA) airport services. The trial took place in a hot environment to evaluate the paint’s performance.
Preliminary results of the trial have been impressive. When compared to a vehicle featuring traditional automotive paint, the vehicle treated with Nissan’s cool paint showed a reduction in exterior surface temperatures and cooler interiors. This can lead to a more pleasant and comfortable cabin while also reducing the need for air-conditioning, which can improve efficiency for both traditional and electric vehicles.
The paint contains metamaterial that reacts to light by reflecting near-infrared rays and creating electromagnetic waves. These properties help to reduce the transfer of heat into the vehicle’s surfaces, such as the roof, hood, doors, and panels.
Dr. Susumu Miura, a senior manager and expert at the Advanced Materials and Processing Laboratory, Nissan Research Centre, has been leading the development of this cool paint. The goal is to create a cooler car without consuming additional energy, especially in the era of electric vehicles.
Miura and his team faced challenges in developing an automotive version of radiant cooling paint. They had to ensure that it could incorporate a clear topcoat, be applied with a spray gun, and meet Nissan’s internal standards for paint quality. They have tested over 100 samples so far and are evaluating a thickness of 120 microns, approximately six times thicker than typical automotive paint. They are also exploring thinner options while maintaining the same level of cooling performance.
While testing and development are ongoing, the hope is that this paint can one day be offered for special orders and in a variety of colours. Miura sees potential for applications in light commercial vehicles such as vans, trucks, and ambulances that operate for extended periods.
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