As proud partners since 2008, AkzoNobel Vehicle Refinishes, and the McLaren Formula 1 Team have a shared focus on outstanding performance and pioneering innovation. That spirit of excellence has now taken centre stage with the launch of Sikkens Autowave Optima, the new-generation waterborne basecoat designed to deliver greater efficiency and sustainability for body shops.
To mark this milestone in vehicle refinishing, AkzoNobel’s Sikkens brand and the McLaren Formula 1 Team have collaborated to produce an exciting campaign filmed at the McLaren Technology Centre, with McLaren Formula 1 Team driver Lando Norris
Stepping into the spray booth, Lando was faced with a new test: The Sikkens Spray Challenge, set by the AkzoNobel technical team. With protective gear on, the McLaren F1 Team driver tested his application skills by spraying a car panel in the infamous McLaren ‘Papaya’ orange, as he demonstrated how the basecoat is easily applied. The one-stop application means that Lando could create his fade design without leaving the spray booth and waiting for the first layer to dry – and this is where process times for bodyshops can be saved by up to 50 per cent – Lando was able to achieve perfect coverage in just 1.5 layers, instead of the conventional two layers, due to its high pigmentation. With the basecoat so easy to apply and blend, he added the finishing touches: a striking black fireworks effect across the full panel.
With Sikkens Autowave Optima, no flash-off is required between coats so application is faster and enables body shops to save 60 per cent less energy than a conventional basecoat along with 380 g/l VOC (10 per cent lower than the 420 g/l legislation). This new technology from AkzoNobel demonstrates that sustainability, productivity and profit can exist in harmony. And, with consistent high-quality results, and superior colour accuracy, it will also help bodyshops meet the growing demands for speed, sustainability, and outstanding finishes in today’s fast-paced environment.
“Our partnership with the McLaren Formula 1 Team is built on a shared commitment to precision, speed, and innovation – values that also define Autowave Optima. business director, automotive & specialty coatings at AkzoNobel, Patrick Bourguignon, said.
“With this next-generation basecoat, we’re setting a new standard for productivity in the bodyshop. The launch marks an exciting milestone not just for AkzoNobel, but for our customers across the globe who are ready to take their own performance to the next level.”
Designed with sustainability at its core, Sikkens Autowave Optima isn’t just about a new product: it’s about empowering bodyshops to deliver faster repairs and premium finishes every time they step in the spraybooth.
Click here to watch the teaser campaign video to discover how Sikkens Autowave Optima is setting new standards in vehicle refinishing.