Axalta Coating Systems and Dürr Systems AG have entered into a strategic partnership to develop a digital paint solution for the automotive industry. The partnership will focus on combining Axalta’s NextJet™ technology with Dürr’s robotics integration.

The digital paint solution will be specifically designed for light vehicle Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). As part of the agreement, Dürr will serve as the robotics integrator for Axalta’s NextJet™ technology.

Digital paint, also known as overspray-free application, allows for more precise paint placement. This is particularly important for the maskless application of paint for two-tone and graphics.

“The maskless application of paint for two-tone and graphics takes collaboration,” said Hadi Awada, President, Global Mobility Coatings, Axalta. “Through our partnership with Dürr, we can better serve OEM customers, building on Axalta’s coatings know-how and Dürr’s robotics integration. Together we are driving the future of digital paint technology.”

Dürr is a pioneer in the field of overspray-free application and has a deep understanding of the requirements that OEMs have for individual designs on their vehicles. The company is excited to work with Axalta to bring the next generation of digital paint to market.

“We are excited to collaborate with Axalta on the next generation of digital paint. As a pioneer in the field of overspray-free application, Dürr understands the requirements that OEMs demand for individual designs on their vehicles. This agreement will enable our joint technology to come faster to market and meet the needs of our customers,” said Dr. Lars Friedrich, CEO, Dürr Systems AG.

The partnership between Axalta and Dürr will also leverage the digital paint expertise that both companies have developed over the years. In 2023, Axalta and Xaar announced a digital paint partnership to offer solutions to light vehicle OEMs. Xaar will continue to play a key role in the digital paint solutions that Axalta and Dürr will offer.

Axalta and Dürr have already begun demonstrations of the NextJet™ technology on Dürr’s robotics at the company’s test center in Bietigheim-Bissingen, Germany. OEMs interested in learning more about the digital paint solution can reach out to their Dürr or Axalta representative.