In fact, not only does the eye understand objects covered in the material as being 2-D, a surface coated in the colour can also be “interpreted by the brain as staring into a hole or even a void”. Naturally, such a paint colour would not be practical for driving on the highway.
The Vantablack VBx2 paint, specially designed to reflect one percent of light instead of just 0.035%, makes the curves of the X6 essentially invisible to the eye, without making it appear as a void.
Ben Jensen, founder and chief technical officer of Surrey NanoSystems, said such a paint worked well specifically on the BMW X6 because of its size and distinctive shape. It highlights the model's iconic grille, stylish headlights and tail lights.
The Vantablack-finished BMW X6 will be on display at the Frankfurt Motor Show, which runs from September 12 to 22, to celebrate the world premiere of the X6 model.