Magna International Inc. 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 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.