are always trying to top each other in terms of vehicle technology. We've seen Mercedes-Benz vehicles use fingerprint scanners for security, as well as implement ARG elements into the windshield. BMW has also dabbled in augmented reality, with an app that lets users project their own customized BMWs into a photo.

Now BMW is trying to let its drivers customize their actual cars in real-time. At the latest Consumer Electronics Show, the first color-changing BMW concept was revealed.

The debut of the BMW iX Flow

We've already

known about the BMW iX EV

for a while, which is now well along in the development process. BMW claims that the high-performance variant of the car, with 610 horsepower, can reach 60 mph in 3.6 seconds.

The M60 also has rear-wheel steering and adjustable air suspension. Even the base model doesn't disappoint, with 510 horsepower.

While the iX comes loaded with innovative tech, BMW has cooked up a new feature. Using their smartphones, drivers would be able to change the exterior color and design of their iX. The concept car was able to shift between gray, white, and black solid colors. However, if the feature was implemented, users could also add racing stripes or experiment with gradient designs.

BMW hopes to expand the color palette to include all the colors of the rainbow for more customization opportunities. Eventually, you might be able to change the color with a hand gesture or button on the dashboard.

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How does the color-changing BMW work?

MORE:

Colorful Updates to the 2022 Porsche Taycan

The Verge

says that the BMW iX Flow is able to change colors using E-ink technology, which is sourced from e-readers.

The Flow's surface coating contains millions of microcapsules capable of producing black and white pigments. The microcapsules receive electrical signals from the phone app, changing the color of the car.

Along with the obvious aesthetic delight, changing the iX's color also has implications for its overall functionality.

For example, on cold days, you could simply change the car's color to black and attract more heat. If solar roof panels were implemented, as we've seen on other EVs, dark colors could enhance the iX's charging capabilities.

You could switch the color to a lighter shade on hot days to deflect sunlight. Drivers might also feel safer driving inside a stark white car at night when visibility is often severely limited.

No matter what color you feel like using, the E-ink technology requires no extra energy from the vehicle's battery.

When will the color-changing BMW be released?

MORE: BMW's Upcoming Electric SUV Is Both Ugly and Effective

The BMW iX Flow is already based on the existing iX EV, which isn't set to be released until March 2022. Since the color-changing technology is still in development, we probably won't see the Flow released for a while. BMW refers to this feature strictly as an advanced research project.

However, as the Verge points out, personalization is a very important factor in the minds of consumers. With such demands, BMW may be motivated to release the feature on a future vehicle.

Even a color-changing BMW needs good auto insurance

BMW vehicles already have above-average insurance premiums due to their luxury distinctions. Cars with more technology features have pricier policies, but your coverage cost is usually dependent on the trim level. That's because most automakers save their most expensive components (advanced safety features) for their range-topping models.

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