# BMW’s E Ink Technology: The Future of Car Paint?
## The Feasibility of E Ink in BMW Cars
BMW’s innovative E Ink technology, which allows cars to change paint colors on the fly, could soon become available in dealerships. According to BMW engineer Stella Clarke, the technology could be implemented in BMW vehicles within the next three to five years. This move would simplify the manufacturing process, as each car would come equipped with E Ink that can be customized to the customer’s desired color.
## Energy Efficiency and Affordability
One of the advantages of E Ink technology is its energy efficiency. Changing the color of an entire car reportedly consumes only 20 watts, equivalent to the energy usage of a single lightbulb. This energy efficiency makes E Ink a viable option for car manufacturers looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
However, Clarke acknowledges that E Ink technology may not be affordable in its early stages of implementation. The cost of the material used in e-readers, which is also used in E Ink, could make the technology relatively expensive. As with any new technology, the price is expected to decrease as it becomes more mainstream.
## E Ink’s Origin and Recognition
Clarke reveals that she invented E Ink in her attic during lockdown and subsequently pitched the idea to BMW. The technology made its debut on the iX Flow, an iX model that could change from white to black and any shade of gray in between. In 2022, E Ink was recognized as one of Time’s Best Inventions, further solidifying its potential in the automotive industry.
## Practical Applications and Potential Challenges
E Ink technology offers more than just customizable car colors. Clarke suggests practical uses such as turning a black car white on a hot day to keep it cooler or using different colors to easily locate a parked car. Rideshare drivers could even change the color of their cars to distinguish between working and personal use.
However, there are potential safety and legal hurdles to consider. Clarke acknowledges the need for safety regulations to prevent distracting color changes while driving. These regulations would likely vary from country to country. Additionally, the technology could pose challenges for law enforcement, as identifying vehicles with rapidly changing paint jobs would become more difficult.
## Conclusion
While BMW’s E Ink technology offers exciting possibilities for personalized car colors and simplified manufacturing, its implementation will require careful consideration of safety and legal concerns. As the technology advances and becomes more affordable, we may see a future where cars can change their paint colors on demand. Until then, we can look forward to further developments in the automotive industry that push the boundaries of innovation.
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