Chennai, Feb 16: Dürr, a global leader in painting and automation technologies, today unveiled EcoNextJet, an advanced system that prints complex graphics, patterns, and lettering directly onto vehicle surfaces with unparalleled precision. Capable of high-resolution output in both horizontal and vertical orientations and with dual-color printing when required, EcoNextJet integrates custom designs directly into the painting process, eliminating the need for films and manual steps while freeing up valuable resources.
“EcoNextJet produces lines as fine as a human hair,” said Timo Beyl, Manager New Technologies, Dürr. “Regardless of body geometry or alignment, detailed graphics with high surface quality are possible almost anywhere on a vehicle. Once clear coated, the graphics are seamless and undetectable to the touch.”
Revolutionizing Vehicle Personalization
Until now, vehicle personalization required manually applying multi-layered films, which were labor-intensive, difficult to recycle, and prone to adhesion issues. EcoNextJet automates this process, transforming creative designs into a scalable, efficient workflow. The system leverages drop-on-demand technology, with a 2,000-nozzle printhead that dispenses paint only where needed. Each drop merges mid-air for precise coverage, enabling pixel-level control with approximately five micrometers of paint thickness and resolutions up to 720 dpi. Dual-channel printing allows simultaneous two-color applications, while Dürr’s proprietary software calculates each drop’s exact impact, even on vertical or convex surfaces.
Partnership Drives Innovation
The EcoNextJet solution was developed through strategic collaborations: Dürr contributed process integration, robotics, and software; Axalta provided specialized paints; and XAAR supplied the high-precision printhead. Frank Herre, Director Automotive (Paint Shop), Dürr, said, “By combining our expertise with that of Axalta and XAAR, we have created a complete system that meets the exacting standards of the automotive industry while giving designers more creative freedom.”
Available for Testing
EcoNextJet is now available for demonstration at Dürr’s test centers in Bietigheim, Germany, and Southfield, Michigan, USA. Manufacturers can witness automated high-resolution graphics printing that reduces waste, saves labor time, and opens up new design possibilities—offering both technological advancement and sustainable production.