New German Paint Technologies...

[drewski59]

This is from a Jalopnik article:

German scientists have been working on a number of different paint technologies that could appear on new vehicles within the next few decades. One of the most prominent is “chameleon” paint, which would change color to somewhat luminesce at dusk, making vehicles more visible. Not thrilling enough for you, techboy? Then how ‘bout electrically-conductive paint that fatigues and cracks along with metal and alerts the vehicle’s pilot to impending structural failure?

Other ideas include graffiti-resistant paint that would allow offensive, unauthorized peni scrawled across your rear-quarter to simply be wiped away, as well as coatings that resist sap. Our favorite part of the article by far, however, reads as follows: “Research shows sharkskin actually slides through water better and, if sharks could fly, would also be more aerodynamic than smooth, polished skin.” Screw all this paint stuff. Why aren’t they working on inventing a freakin’ flying sharks?

I think it's pretty interesting, but the sharkskin is pushing it. I don't know about you guys, but I'm still excited by the Ceramiclear M-B paint!

[Bill D]

My understanding is that other marques will be introducing ceramiclear like finishes as well. Several paint manufacturers are supposed to have their own version. Also, I apparently the "way of the future" of some paints will be more of a "color film" . Take a look.

[Setec Astronomy]

I didn't read that whole thing, Bill, but they have been talking about using laminates like that on airplanes instead of paint, and they used something like the "sharkskin" on some America's Cup yachts, unless my brain isn't working, which is possible.