At the 2022 CES show, BMW released the BMW iX Flow concept car, which is based on the BMW iX model, the overall design is no different from the BMW iX, but using BMW's latest "electronic ink" technology (E-ink), it can make its body change color instantly.
BMW e-ink technology demonstration
Using the unique technology of "e-ink", the BMW iX Flow Concept can successfully achieve a one-touch color change function on the body. "E-ink" contains millions of transparent microcapsules, just the thickness of a single hair. Each microcapsule contains a negatively charged white pigment, as well as a positively charged black pigment. By controlling the electrodes on both sides of the microcapsule, the desired color appears on the body surface. BMW manufactures different sizes of "electronic ink" according to the pattern and the curvature of the car surface, which is then fixed to the car, and finally achieves a key change of color through the change of electrodes.
In addition, "electronic ink" is also conducive to reducing energy consumption while changing the color of the body. It is worth mentioning that the changeable body color is conducive to improving the comfort of the car and reducing the energy required for the electrical system. For example, white surfaces can reflect more sunlight, if the body color is changed to light color, it can reduce the impact of strong external sunlight and high temperatures on the interior of the vehicle, preventing overheating of the interior such as the center console and dashboard. In the case of lower temperatures, turning the body dark can help absorb more heat from sunlight, reduce the energy consumption required for air conditioning heating, and effectively increase the electric range.