Nissan Trials Radiative Cooling Paint Technology to Reduce Vehicle Temperature and Energy Usage
Nissan, in partnership with Radi-Cool, has been testing an innovative automotive paint designed to lower a vehicle’s cabin temperature during the summer months and decrease the energy consumption of the air-conditioning system. The paint incorporates metamaterial, a synthetic composite material with unique properties not typically found in nature. The project is part of Nissan’s commitment to sustainable innovations that enhance customer experiences and contribute to a cleaner environment.
Real-World Testing at Tokyo International Air Terminal
Nissan began a 12-month feasibility trial at Tokyo International Air Terminal at Haneda to assess the performance of the cool paint. The paint was applied to a Nissan NV100 service vehicle operated by All Nippon Airways (ANA) airport services in collaboration with Japan Airport Terminal Co., Ltd., Radi-Cool Japan, and ANA airport services. The trials took place under the exposed high-temperature conditions at the Haneda airport tarmac, providing an ideal real-world environment for evaluation.
Impressive Results and Potential Benefits
Initial results from the trial have been promising, showing a significant reduction in exterior surface temperatures and interior temperatures of vehicles treated with Nissan’s cool paint compared to those with traditional automotive paint. The cooler cabin temperatures not only enhance comfort for occupants but also reduce the need for prolonged use of the air-conditioning system, leading to improved efficiency in powertrains and energy savings for electric vehicles.
Innovative Metamaterial Technology
Nissan’s cool paint incorporates metamaterial particles that react to light in two distinct ways. One particle reflects near-infrared rays from the sun, which would typically generate heat in traditional paint. The second particle produces electromagnetic waves that redirect the sun’s energy away from the vehicle into the atmosphere. These combined particles reduce heat transfer into the vehicle’s surfaces, such as the roof, hood, doors, and panels, contributing to the overall cooling effect.
Development Challenges and Future Potential
Dr. Susumu Miura, a senior manager at Nissan Research Center, leads the development of the radiant cooling paint. Miura and his team have overcome challenges such as ensuring compatibility with clear topcoats, enabling spray gun application, and meeting Nissan’s stringent quality standards for automotive paint. While the current thickness of the paint is approximately six times that of traditional automotive paint, efforts are underway to explore thinner options that maintain the same cooling efficacy while meeting durability requirements.
Future Applications and Outlook
As testing and development continue, the team at Nissan envisions offering the radiant cooling paint for special orders and in various color options. Miura sees potential applications for light commercial vehicles like vans, trucks, and ambulances that operate outdoors for extended periods. The ultimate goal is to create vehicles that are cooler and more energy-efficient without compromising on performance or durability.
Overall, Nissan’s trials of radiant cooling paint technology represent a significant step towards enhancing vehicle comfort, reducing energy consumption, and promoting sustainability in the automotive industry. By leveraging innovative materials and partnerships, Nissan continues to push the boundaries of automotive paint technology for the benefit of both drivers and the environment.