BASF Coatings future-proofs automotive refinish with robotics expertise

Key highlights
  • BASF Coatings acts as integration partner and process leader for robotics-enabled paint application in body shops, collaborating with OEMs, robotics suppliers and pilot customers.
  • Robotics integrates with the Refinity digital color workflow to link digital color scanning, matching, mixing and workflow management to physical paint application.
  • Initial robotics use targets standardized application of primer, basecoat and clearcoat on full vehicle parts to improve repeatability, throughput and material efficiency.
  • BASF provides validated application process expertise and system integration but does not develop robotics hardware.

Strategy

BASF Coatings positions itself as an integration partner and process leader for robotics-enabled automotive refinish by combining coatings expertise, application process know‑how and digital color management through collaboration with OEMs, robotics suppliers and pilot customers.

Digital integration

Robotics is integrated into the Refinity ecosystem to link digital color scanning, matching, mixing and workflow management with physical paint application, creating a connected process that aims to deliver consistent quality in body shop environments.

Applications and benefits

Initial deployments focus on standardized primer, basecoat and clearcoat application to complete vehicle parts, prioritizing repeatability, throughput and material efficiency; broader use cases such as blending or interior painting are expected as the technology matures.

Role and support

BASF provides validated process expertise, scalable application standards and practical implementation guidance for robotics-enabled repair operations but does not develop robotics hardware, offering orientation, validation and close collaboration for customers deciding on future repair processes.