BASF’s functional coatings technology for passive temperature management was honored in the “Innovation of the Year” and “Concepts” categories at the German Design Council’s 2017 Automotive Brand Contest during the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, Germany.

The jury noted that BASF “captures the spirit of the times” with its temperature management solutions. The functional coatings technology provides energy efficiency and environmental protection through the combination of intelligent materials and appealing design.

“Both awards underscore our commitment and success in combining striking design with outstanding properties through intelligent paint solutions,” said Stefan Sickert, head of Product Management Basecoat/Primer Europe at BASF.

The paint system is based on a UV-permeable basecoat and UV-reflecting primer. On hot summer days, these materials reduce the surface temperature on vehicles by up to 20°C. This results in less interior heat and reduces air conditioner use to lower the temperature in the car. Not only does this enhance driver and passenger comfort; it also saves energy, reducing fuel consumption or extending the range of electric vehicles.

The special BASF formulation can be easily integrated into conventional application processes, provides a range of popular colors and meets the high-quality standards for the life cycle of a finish.
This innovation already received the German Federal Ecodesign Award in 2016 for sustainable products from the German Federal Environmental Agency (UBA) and the German Federal Environment Ministry (BMUB) in cooperation with the International Design Center, Berlin.