Kyushu Nanotec Optical, based in Hiji Town, Oita Prefecture, has developed a liquid crystal film adopted for the panoramic roof of Toyota’s new Lexus RZ electric vehicle. The film can instantly switch from nearly full black shading to 20% transparency when powered, marking what the company says is the world’s first commercial application of black-to-transparent smart film technology. The product improves cabin comfort by reducing sunlight and heat without conventional sunshades. Company officials said developing pigments durable enough to withstand ultraviolet light and heat posed a major technical challenge. Kyushu Nanotec previously supplied white-to-transparent film technology for Toyota’s Harrier model in 2020 and recently opened a dedicated production facility for the new film. Source: Nikkei / TOS News
Photo: Lexus
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