• XSpark® creates a sparkling effect which adds depth to the surface
  • This is already the third award for the innovative effect

When carmakers present their latest models, particular value is placed on perfect gloss and a gleaming shine. Paint is an important consideration in automotive design - it emphasizes a car's character and accentuates its distinctive outline. The color designers adjust the color palette according to the respective model range or develop individual color concepts.

Effects play a special role when it comes to automotive coating. Not only do they broaden the color spectrum, they also provide the entire surface of the vehicle with an exclusive look. This was also recognized by the jury of experts at the Automotive Brand Contest, which was held for the fifth time by the German Design Council and has established itself as an important platform for consistency and uniform presentation of the automotive brands. The effect paint 'XSpark®' by BASF's Coatings division is the only automotive coating which succeeded at the Automotive Brand Contest and was honored with an award at the IAA 2015 in Frankfurt am Main/Germany. The competition reflects trends and developments in automotive design, where emotional design and consistent brand management are important factors of success.

The designers at BASF Coatings work closely with the lab to develop new formulations continually, thus challenging the viewing habits of the observer. This is how XSpark® was developed, a special effect for automotive OEM coatings which only unfolds its effect in direct sunlight. Tiny glass particles in the finish reflect the light with almost no scatter, in this way creating a distinctive sparkle. The uniform light refraction of the surface creates a visual effect of depth on the entire surface of the vehicle.

'The exterior is the most important aspect of automotive design. It underlines the brand presence and triggers a sense of dynamism in the observer through its design. We support this requirement of the car manufacturers systematically and provide individual solutions through our colors and effects. Thus we are all the more proud of the award, which honors the visual innovation of our paint effect,' said Mark Gutjahr, head of Design Europe at BASF Coatings.

Following the Red Dot Award 2015 and the Materialica Design + Technology Silver Award 2014, the award at the Automotive Brand Contest is already the third prize won by XSpark® and its designers.

About BASF's Coatings division
BASF's Coatings division develops, produces and markets innovative automotive coatings, automotive refinishes and industrial coatings as well as decorative paints. We operate sites in Europe, North America and South America as well as Asia Pacific. Within this network, we collaborate closely with our customers all over the world. In 2014, the Coatings division achieved global sales of about €3 billion. More information about the division is available at www.basf-coatings.com.

About BASF
At BASF, we create chemistry - and have been doing so for 150 years. Our portfolio ranges from chemicals, plastics, performance products and crop protection products to oil and gas. As the world's leading chemical company, we combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. Through science and innovation, we enable our customers in nearly every industry to meet the current and future needs of society. Our products and solutions contribute to conserving resources, ensuring nutrition and improving quality of life. We have summed up this contribution in our corporate purpose: We create chemistry for a sustainable future. BASF had sales of over €74 billion in 2014 and around 113,000 employees as of the end of the year. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchanges in Frankfurt (BAS), London (BFA) and Zurich (AN). Further information on BASF is available on the Internet at www.basf.com.

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