Nissan Puts Self-Cleaning Car To The Test

NOT a fan of cleaning your car? If so, you might want to make friends with your local Nissan dealer, as the Japanese firm has begun tests on a "self-cleaning" vehicle which could wash away the worries of those weary of doing the job themselves.

Boffins at Nissan's European technical centre in Switzerland are testing an innovative paint technology that repels mud, rain and everyday dirt. The specially engineered paint, which repels water and oils, has been applied to one of Nissan’s all-new Note models. Engineers at the centre will be testing the self-cleaning Note over the coming months in a variety of conditions.

Nissan is the first carmaker to apply the technology, called Ultra-Ever Dry, on automotive bodywork. By creating a protective layer of air between the paint and environment, it effectively stops standing water and road spray from creating dirty marks on the car's surface.

Commenting on the technology, Geraldine Ingham, chief marketing manager for the Nissan Note, said: "The Nissan Note has been carefully engineered to take the stress out of customer driving and Nissan's engineers are constantly thinking of new ways to make families' lives easier.

"We are committed to addressing everyday problems our customers face and will always consider testing exciting, cutting edge technology like this incredible coating application."

However, there are currently no plans for the technology to be applied to the model as standard, so those keen not to get their hands dirty will have to pay extra for the privilege.

By Press Association reporters