Magna Morphing Surfaces Technology Offers New Possibilities in Automotive Design

Rhea-AI Summary

Magna has unveiled its new Morphing Surfaces technology, a significant innovation in automotive design that enhances efficiency and aerodynamics. This next-generation vehicle exterior solution allows for shape-changing components, potentially achieving a 10% drag reduction and up to 5% range extension for electric vehicles. Morphing Surfaces not only improves aerodynamic performance but also integrates seamlessly with vehicle aesthetics. The technology will debut at the Consumer Electronics Show in January 2023.

Positive

• Introduction of Morphing Surfaces technology that enhances vehicle efficiency and design.
• Potential for up to 10% reduction in drag and 5% extension in electric vehicle range.
• Integration of advanced thermoplastics and mechatronics in product development.

Negative

• None.

• Technology extends beyond what is currently possible with traditional active aerodynamic systems
• Seamlessly combines shape changing components with aerodynamic elements enhancing design and function
• Advanced solution utilizing thermoplastic materials contributes to increased battery range and efficiency

AURORA, Ontario, Dec. 21, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Building on its expertise in producing millions of active aerodynamic systems for automakers, today Magna introduces Morphing Surfaces, the next generation vehicle exterior solutions that further increases efficiency while enhancing design. Enabling advanced aero and cooling performance, the technology can seamlessly integrate shape-changing body components into advanced vehicle exteriors.

Morphing Surfaces technology is a paradigm shift beyond today’s active shutters, panels and grilles. It employs active ‘bendable’ surfaces that can be designed to visually blend into a vehicle’s body while opening or closing to optimize cooling, venting or aerodynamics when required. This creates more possibilities for vehicle designers to balance aesthetics and aero performance in future vehicles.

Morphing Surfaces offers a compelling opportunity to reduce drag on all vehicles, especially electric. For example, depending on the vehicle, a typical application could achieve up to a 10% reduction in drag resulting in up to a 5% range extension in electric vehicles without foregoing the sleek, clean designs prized by modern automotive designers and customers.

“Morphing Surfaces exemplifies the way Magna looks beyond today’s offerings and imagines what is possible around future vehicle designs,” said Grahame Burrow, Global President of Magna Exteriors. “Magna is uniquely positioned to turn this vision into reality thanks to our extensive experience developing a suite of aerodynamic solutions and our systems approach to integration of advanced technology into vehicles.”

Morphing Surfaces reflects a breadth of expertise that includes mechatronics and advanced thermoplastics knowledge enabling the development of sophisticated products that meet stringent automotive specifications.

Morphing can go in numerous directions, directions Magna is still exploring, and their goal does not just stop at aerodynamics. This technology can go further.

Morphing Surfaces will make its debut at the Consumer Electronics Show in January 2023.

TAGS
Morphing Surfaces, Active Aerodynamics, Body Design, Vehicle Design, Fuel Economy

INVESTOR CONTACT
Louis Tonelli, Vice-President, Investor Relations
louis.tonelli@magna.com, 905-726-7035

MEDIA CONTACT
Tracy Fuerst, Vice President, Corporate Communications & PR
tracy.fuerst@magna.com, 248-761-7004

ABOUT MAGNA
We are a mobility technology company. We have more than 170,000 entrepreneurial-minded employees and 345 manufacturing operations and 90 product development, engineering and sales centres in 28 countries. We have complete vehicle engineering and contract manufacturing expertise, as well as product capabilities which include body, chassis, exterior, seating, powertrain, active driver assistance, electronics, mirrors & lighting, mechatronics and roof systems. Magna also has electronic and software capabilities across many of these areas. Our common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (MG) and the New York Stock Exchange (MGA). For further information about Magna, visit www.magna.com.

THIS RELEASE MAY CONTAIN STATEMENTS WHICH CONSTITUTE “FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS” UNDER APPLICABLE SECURITIES LEGISLATION AND ARE SUBJECT TO, AND EXPRESSLY QUALIFIED BY, THE CAUTIONARY DISCLAIMERS THAT ARE SET OUT IN MAGNA’S REGULATORY FILINGS. PLEASE REFER TO MAGNA’S MOST CURRENT MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL POSITION, ANNUAL INFORMATION FORM AND ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 40-F, AS REPLACED OR UPDATED BY ANY OF MAGNA’S SUBSEQUENT REGULATORY FILINGS, WHICH SET OUT THE CAUTIONARY DISCLAIMERS, INCLUDING THE RISK FACTORS THAT COULD CAUSE ACTUAL EVENTS TO DIFFER MATERIALLY FROM THOSE INDICATED BY SUCH FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS. THESE DOCUMENTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW ON MAGNA’S WEBSITE AT WWW.MAGNA.COM.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7ba0b0bd-3e21-4158-abc6-7b2a7175a30d

FAQ

What is Magna's Morphing Surfaces technology?

A new technology that enhances vehicle exterior design by integrating shape-changing components for improved aerodynamics.

How much drag reduction can Morphing Surfaces achieve?

It can potentially achieve up to a 10% reduction in drag.

When will Morphing Surfaces be showcased?

It will debut at the Consumer Electronics Show in January 2023.

What are the benefits of Morphing Surfaces for electric vehicles?

It can lead to up to a 5% range extension for electric vehicles.

How does Morphing Surfaces technology impact vehicle design?

It allows for seamless integration of performance features without compromising aesthetics.