Benjamin Males
X6 Vantablack
The World's first Vantablack coated automobile
BMW - 2019
For Levitation 29 and in collaboration with Surrey NanoSystems
Vantablack coatings are the blackest in the world, absorbing more than 99% of visible light and almost completely removing all reflections. In a playful and cutting-edge take on the tradition of concealing key design features by keeping cars under cloth or covering them with decals, BMW celebrated the launch of the iconic X6 by showcasing a Vantablack version.
The project went viral, being featured on many leading design press as well as the usual auto channels. The success of the initial campaign lead to the X6 Vantablack being called for the Frankfurt IAA motor show where it was placed inside an immersive experience room where it was seen by many hundreds of thousands of public visitors in real life.
Services
Creative Direction - Technical Direction - Project Management - Press and PR
Benjamin worked directly with the senior marketing team at BMW and the designer of the BMW X6 to develop the concept for the X6 Vantablack. He then worked closely with the Scientists at Surrey NanoSystem to develop a coating strategy that resulted in the setting up of a temporary Vantablack spray facility in a secret studio on the outskirts of Munich.
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Benjamin managed the project and later helped to develop the concept for the Frankfurt IAA Motor Show immersive experience. He also featured in social media video for the event.
