Nissan is making strides towards a more sustainable automotive future with an innovative new paint designed to lower a vehicle’s ambient cabin temperature, thereby reducing the energy usage of the air-conditioning system. The paint, developed in collaboration with Radi-Cool, incorporates metamaterial technology, which is known for its unique properties not found in nature.
The project, a testament to Nissan’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, began a 12-month feasibility trial in November 2023 at Tokyo International Air Terminal at Haneda. Partnering with Japan Airport Terminal Co., Ltd., Radi-Cool Japan, and All Nippon Airways (ANA), the trial involves a Nissan NV100 service vehicle operated by ANA airport services. Haneda’s expansive, sun-exposed tarmac provides an ideal testing ground for the paint’s performance in high-temperature environments.
Preliminary results have been promising. When tested under the sun, vehicles coated with Nissan’s cool paint demonstrated exterior surface temperatures up to 12 degrees Celsius lower and interior temperatures up to 5 degrees Celsius cooler compared to vehicles with traditional paint. This significant cooling effect is particularly advantageous when a vehicle is parked for long periods, leading to a more comfortable cabin and reduced air-conditioning usage. The decreased demand on the air-conditioning system is expected to improve overall vehicle efficiency, benefiting both traditional and electric powertrains.
The paint’s efficacy lies in its composition. It features two types of microstructure particles: one reflects near-infrared rays to prevent heat generation, while the other emits electromagnetic waves to redirect solar energy away from the vehicle. This combination effectively minimizes heat transfer to the vehicle’s surfaces.
Dr. Susumu Miura, the senior manager and expert at the Advanced Materials and Processing Laboratory at Nissan Research Center, leads this development. Known for his contributions to noise-reducing acoustic materials, Miura’s current focus is on creating cooler, more efficient cars. “My dream is to create cooler cars without consuming energy,” Miura stated. “This is especially important in the EV era, where the load from running air-conditioning in summer can significantly impact the state of charge.”
Unlike existing radiant cooling paints typically used for buildings, Nissan’s automotive version is designed to meet high standards of quality and durability. It can be applied via a spray gun, includes a clear topcoat, and withstands environmental challenges such as salt, chipping, scratches, and chemical reactions. Although the current paint thickness is about 120 microns—six times thicker than regular automotive paint—Miura’s team is exploring thinner options that maintain the same cooling performance.
While still in the testing phase, the team aims for the paint to be available for special orders in various colors, with potential applications extending to light commercial vehicles like vans, trucks, and ambulances that frequently operate under the sun.
As Nissan continues its pursuit of innovative solutions, this cooling paint project stands as a beacon of hope for a cooler, more energy-efficient future on the roads.
