BMW unveiled a production-ready chameleon-like car in Beijing (2 photos + 1 video)
The futuristic new model was brought to the Beijing exhibition, and it's no longer a fragile show concept covered in flimsy film. 
At the Auto China exhibition in Beijing, the company unveiled the BMW iX3 Flow Edition crossover – a car that can literally change its body color before your eyes. The main difference from all previous concepts: this is no longer a fragile show toy, but a fully tested and production-ready vehicle.
The technology is based on E Ink Prism electronic ink – the same one used in e-book screens. However, BMW engineers have fully adapted it to the harsh automotive conditions. Now, the e-ink panels are integrated directly into the body structure during production, rather than simply glued on. The coating has successfully passed all factory tests: temperature fluctuations, road reagents, hail, stones from under the wheels, and normal everyday wear.
The driver can change the color with just the touch of a button in the cabin. Eight different options are available, from calm monochrome gradients to dynamic animations. The switching is quick and effective.
The technology is highly energy-efficient: electricity is consumed only during the color change, and then the panels consume no energy at all. Furthermore, it actually helps conserve battery power in electric vehicles. In hot weather, a light-colored car body is sufficient – it reflects sunlight, reducing the need for the air conditioner. In cold weather, on the contrary, black absorbs heat better and helps naturally warm the car.
Representatives from BMW and E Ink stated that the successful debut of the iX3 Flow Edition in Beijing marks an important transition: chameleon technology has finally moved beyond the realm of daring experiments and could soon become a viable option for production vehicles.
