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BASF has developed a waterborne paint process that heightens the metallic effect of colours. Mercedes-Benz will be the first OEM to use it.

The paint forms an important part of customers’ perceptions of a vehicle and metallic finishes add value to a car.

The BASF Liquid Metal paint’s particles are thinner and flatter than in conventional metallic paints. This makes the light reflect better and intensifies the gloss.

“The paint emphasises the design lines and vehicle contours more strongly than other finishes,” said BASF.

Project teams from DaimlerChrysler and BASF Coatings began working together on the pigment in 2004. It is not yet ready for series production, however.

It requires an elaborate preparatory process. The body must be extremely smooth to prevent any unevenness from showing.

Mercedes will only offer the paint as part of its limited edition Designo programme.