Want a glipse of the future of automotive?

From Nanowerk:

The Nanospyder would be formed out of a latticework of billions of tiny programmable nano devices measuring less than half a millimeter in diameter. Each of these tiny devices can be programmed to be as strong or weak as required meaning active crumple zones can be created. Clothing the nano-lattice are panels formed out of a mix of organic materials some of which can inflate to provide further cushioning in the result of an impact. The material doubles as a power source as polysynthesis generates small amounts of electricity. This coupled with hydrogen fuels generates power to drive the tiny electric motors mounted within the hubs of all four wheels.

So, Star Trek aside, what does nanotechnology mean for today’s cars?  Much more down-to-Earth (no pun intended):

The basic trends that nanotechnology enables for the automobile are:

• lighter but stronger materials (for better fuel consumption and increased safety)
• improved engine efficiency and fuel consumption for gasoline-powered cars (catalysts; fuel additives; lubricants)
• reduced environmental impact from hydrogen and fuel cell-powered cars
• improved and miniaturized electronic systems
• better economies (longer service life; lower component failure rate; smart materials for self-repair)

Where we’ve been active in nano research is (as you might guess) with oils, as they are prime candidates for nanotechnology improvements.  Anywhere you can reduce friction between sliding/moving surfaces is going to be an easy first-target for early nanotechnology.

This is where automotive technology is going on the medium- to long-term horizon.  It’s going to totally re-shape the automotive market from every angle, and it will introduce capabilities that were previously only found in movies and sci-fi books.

It’s going to be exciting, and we’re thrilled to be part of the early research panels.