Remember the self-cleaning Nissan Note hatchback? Well, the Japanese automaker decided to showcase the special nano-paint technology that repels mud and everyday dirt on a Nissan Leaf as well. The Japanese firm proudly calls it “the world’s cleanest car,” a reference to both the Leaf’s zero-emission electric powertrain and the self-cleaning paint.

The Nissan Leaf’s exterior was treated with the specially engineered superhydrophobic and oleophobic paint called Ultra-Ever Dry, designed to repel water and oils. The “self-cleaning” paint creates a protective layer of air between the paint and environment, effectively stopping standing water and road spray from creating dirty marks on the LEAF’s surface.

Nissan is planning to use the paint in future production vehicles and in order to do that, it has been testing the technology in Europe. Results so far are encouraging, with the paint responding well to common-use cases including rain, spray, frost, sleet and standing water.

However, Nissan’s plans with the coating technology are to offer it as a future aftermarket option for its vehicles and not as standard equipment.

“The 100 percent electric Leaf provides the perfect canvas for this new, advanced paint technology,” said Pierre Loing, vice president, Product Planning, Nissan North America, Inc. “This is one Leaf that never has to stop at gas stations – not even for a car wash,” he added.

By Dan Mihalascu

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