BMW iX Flow changes colour at the press of a button

BMW’s presence at this year’s CES (Consumer Electronics Show) extended beyond the unveiling of the new M60, the most powerful version of the iX. The German manufacturer also showcased several technologies, with the standout being one that lets a vehicle’s colour be changed at the press of a button.

To demonstrate it, BMW introduced the iX Flow, which can switch swiftly and dynamically from white to black and back again in different patterns - almost as though it were an animation… or had the ability to camouflage itself or display patterns like a cuttlefish.

For now, it remains largely a technological experiment, with no certainty that it will reach the production line. Nevertheless, BMW highlights the opportunities this solution creates, both for vehicle customisation and practical functions.

How does the BMW iX Flow work?

The “secret” behind its ability to change shade lies in electrophoresis technology developed by E Ink - similar to that used in eReaders such as Amazon’s Kindle. The iX Flow features a special coating applied over its bodywork which, when activated by electrical signals - the only stage at which it consumes energy - reveals different pigments.

This coating consists of numerous ePaper segments and contains millions of microcapsules, each with a diameter equivalent to the thickness of a human hair. They hold negatively charged white pigments and positively charged black pigments. When an option is selected, electrical stimulation brings one pigment or the other to the surface.

One challenge was ensuring these ePaper segments could be cut precisely and applied in a way that faithfully followed the vehicle’s contours, as well as the changing light and shadow across the bodywork. Once fitted and electrically connected, the bodywork is heated and sealed to ensure optimum, consistent colour reproduction every time it changes.

Customisation and efficiency benefits

The customisation potential of this technology has already been mentioned, but its possible practical applications should not be overlooked.

It could make a car easier to find in a car park by rapidly and repeatedly alternating between the two shades, while also helping to improve vehicle efficiency. How? By choosing the appropriate tone for prevailing weather conditions: white on hot days and black on cold ones.

By making the most of the heat-reflecting properties of each shade - on warm days, white or very light-coloured cars have a lower cabin temperature than black or very dark-coloured vehicles - air conditioning can be used less, or at a lower intensity, saving energy. In electric cars such as this iX Flow, that could help deliver greater range.

Other new technologies from BMW at CES

Alongside the iX Flow, BMW brought further innovations to CES, including the BMW Theatre Screen, designed to turn the second row of seats into a cinema room. It is activated by selecting “My Mode Theatre” in the infotainment system.

The system comprises a 31-inch ultra-wide screen that lowers from the roof, a surround-sound system and 5G connectivity. It also controls the rear-window blinds and adjusts the interior lighting to create a more immersive experience. Rear occupants can control the screen - its tilt, format and so on - as well as the volume, using touch-sensitive controls integrated into the rear doors.

BMW has confirmed that this solution will enter production, although it has not yet said when. However, some rumours suggest it could debut in the next-generation 7 Series, due to be launched this year.

BMW’s electric models will also begin to emit bespoke sounds created by the award-winning composer Hans Zimmer, responsible for some of cinema’s best-known soundtracks. The i4 will be the first to receive them in the coming months, followed by the iX in the second half of 2022.

The BMW iX M60, unveiled at the event, is also the brand’s first model to feature digital art in its interior, with the initiative set to expand to further models in the future. The curved display that dominates the electric SUV’s cabin will also show a work by Chinese multimedia artist Cao Fei, entitled “Quantum Garden”.