Toyota is taking a page out of BMW’s book by developing a method to change vehicle colors using heat and light. The technology has been in development for two years and Toyota recently filed for a patent with the US Patent and Trademark Office. The patent describes a process where cars leave the factory with a single color, but the color-changing material allows for customization at a dealer or Toyota facility. This process involves using either large panels or a movable panel to heat the paint and then applying specific wavelengths of light to shift the molecules in the paint and create different visible colors. Temperature sensors on the car would ensure the correct parameters are achieved for the desired color.
One advantage of this method is that owners don’t have to worry about their cars randomly changing colors due to external factors like extreme temperatures. The specific conditions required for color changing must be met, so driving a Camry into Death Valley won’t result in a sudden shift from grey to hot pink.
Interestingly, BMW showcased a color-change concept at the Consumer Electronics Show in 2022. Their concept, known as E Ink, is based on the electrophoretic technology used in e-readers. This technology allows for colors to be changed by applying an electric current that causes pigments to pass through microcapsules. The exterior of the vehicle can be controlled through an app on a mobile phone, with up to 32 colors displayed on 240 E Ink segments.
While both Toyota’s color-changing method and BMW’s E Ink technology are still conceptual and not ready for mass production, they offer intriguing possibilities for customization in the future. The ability to change a vehicle’s color opens up new avenues for personalization and expression. Perhaps in the near future, we will see Camrys driving around in eye-catching hot pink shades or other vibrant colors.
In conclusion, the automotive industry is continuously innovating to meet consumer demands and preferences. Toyota’s development of a color-changing method and BMW’s E Ink concept demonstrate the industry’s dedication to providing customers with unique and customizable options for their vehicles. While these technologies are not yet available in showrooms, they showcase the exciting possibilities that lie ahead in the world of automotive customization.
