TL;DR
- EVs are technologically advanced, stylish, and eco-friendly. However, their paints, softer than traditional counterparts, are more damage-prone.
- Being water-based and thinner, EV paints are prone to swirl marks, scratches, clear coat damage, fading, oxidation, and etching.
- Benefits of ceramic coatings for EV paints:
- Protects against light abrasions, scratches, and swirl marks
- Allows water to slide off easily
- Safeguards against oxidation and UV rays
- Resists chemicals in acidic rain, bird dropping, bug splatters, and road salts
- Enables easy washing and maintenance
- Enhances resale value by preserving the car’s looks
- Ceramic coatings are better than wax in terms of paint bonding, durability, resistance to scratches, UV protection, and maintenance.
- When paired with PPF, ceramic coatings protect against rock chips.
- Maintenance dos: Use pH-neutral shampoo, the two-bucket washing method, soft microfiber towels, and SiO₂-based spray.
- Maintenance don’ts: Avoid automatic washes, harsh cleaning solutions, washing under direct sunlight, or allowing chemical contaminants to sit for long.
Everything to Know About Ceramic Coatings for EV Vehicles
Electric vehicles (EVs) check multiple boxes for modern car-owners, like eco-friendly performance, sleek and swanky design, and avant-garde technology. However, be it a Tesla, Lucid, Rivian, or some other electric car, the soft paint needs adequate protection. And that’s where ceramic coatings for EV vehicles enter the picture.
EVs feature paints that are thinner than those on conventional cars and more susceptible to swirls, scratches, and damage caused by environmental contaminants. It is important to understand this vulnerability before choosing a long-term paint protection solution. So, let’s explore this in more detail, look at how ceramic coatings can help, and understand what you can do for lasting protection.
Why EV Paintwork Is More Susceptible to Damage
EV manufacturers have to comply with strict standards when it comes to sustainability and emissions. For that, they use paints that are water-based and eco-friendly. However, these are generally softer than the solvent-based coatings used on traditional vehicles.
Consequently, these issues often crop up:
- Minor scratches caused by debris and dust
- Visible swirl marks from improper cleaning methods
- Damage to the clear coat due to prolonged UV exposure
- Rapid oxidation and fading of the paint
- Chemical etching caused by bug splatters and bird droppings
Why Ceramic Coatings Are a Smart Choice for Electric Vehicles
A liquid polymer containing silica, ceramic coating bonds with the EV’s clear coat chemically. And it turns into a semi-permanent and hard layer after curing, which protects the paint. Hence, these coatings, unlike traditional wax or sealants, aren’t temporary and act like a durable shield. Here’s a closer look at the perks of using ceramic coatings for EV vehicles’ soft paint:
1. Safeguard Against Common Damages
Ceramic coatings minimize swirl marks and scratches, besides reducing the damage that can happen from washing electric cars improperly. They also keep the car paint secure against light abrasions caused by dirt and dust.
2. Hydrophobic Property
When water falls on ceramic coatings, it forms beads that slide off with ease. This means washing EVs becomes easy. And you don’t need to clean them frequently either. Moreover, less dirt clings to the car paint, and there are fewer swirl marks.
3. Protection against UV Rays and Oxidation
Since you often have to park EVs outside to charge them, the soft paint might fade from extended sun exposure. The clear factory coat might also degrade. Ceramic coatings fight these issues by blocking UV rays and slowing down oxidation. The color and gloss of the factory paint are not only preserved but also enhanced.
4. Resistance to Chemicals
Acidic contaminants like bird droppings, dead bugs, and road salts can easily etch soft paint. Ceramic coatings for EV vehicles are, however, resistant to these as well as other pollutants and industrial fallouts.
5. Easy Maintenance
Even if you drive your EV every day, premium ceramic coatings can offer the desired protection and last for 2 to 5 years. So, there’s no call for frequent re-coating. Plus, cleaning and washing these coatings is a breeze.
6. Enhanced Resale Value
Ceramic coatings not only offer environmental protection but also elevate the color, gloss, and appearance of your EV. The car looks as good as new for years, which helps you score a decent resale price.
Also read: What is ceramic coating
Tesla, Rivian, and Other EVs: How Ceramic Coating Helps
Here’s a more specific look at the role of ceramic coatings in the case of Tesla, Rivian, and other electric cars:
Tesla
Tesla vehicles are known for their soft and thin paint as well as high susceptibility to swirl marks. Ceramic coatings, fortunately, minimize damage caused by regular washing.
Rivian
Large panels in Rivian EVs are extensively exposed to road debris. Also, contamination risks increase when you take the car off-road. Luckily, ceramic coatings protect the vehicles against dust, mud, and UV exposure.
Other EVs
Ceramic coatings lend deep gloss and preserve the paint effectively. They also enable daily usage by simplifying maintenance and supporting long-term ownership.
Ceramic Coating or Wax: What Is Better for EVs?
Traditional wax usually can’t protect soft EV paint the way ceramic coatings can. And this table shows why:
| Feature | Ceramic Coating | Traditional Wax |
| Paint Bonding | Chemical | Temporary and surface-level |
| Durability | 2 to 5 years or more | Weeks or months at the most |
| Resistance to Scratches | Modest | Minimal |
| Protection against UV Rays | High | Low |
| Maintenance Required | Low | High |
Also read: Ceramic coating vs protection film
Pair Ceramic Coating with PPF for Maximum EV Protection
While ceramic coatings protect EVs against environmental factors, ease cleaning, and enhance gloss, they aren’t very effective against the impact of flying debris, stones, or gravel. Paint protection film (PPF), on the other hand, acts as a robust barrier against rock chips.
Hence, using both is ideal if you want the best outcome for your vehicle. Applying PPF especially on mirrors, hood, and the front bumper is recommended, in addition to ceramic coating the entire car.
Ceramic Coatings for EV Vehicles: Maintenance Tips
To make ceramic coatings last and keep them effective for years, mind the following:
Dos
- While washing, use a pH-neutral shampoo that’s specific to ceramic coatings. It won’t damage the coating or original paint despite cleaning the car thoroughly.
- Follow the two-bucket method for washing. So, keep soapy but clean water in one and use the other for rinsing your washcloth. It will prevent swirl marks and scratches.
- Use soft microfiber towels or a car blower for drying the EV. If you are using towels, pat the body of the vehicle gently instead of rubbing hard. Also, don’t allow your washed car to dry in the air, as it can lead to mineral deposits or water marks.
- Every 2 to 4 months, apply a spray based on SiO₂, so the EV’s gloss is retained and the ceramic coating’s hydrophobic property is strong as ever.
Don’ts
- Avoid automatic car washes, since spinning brushes can cause abrasions, swirl marks, and scratches. Wash your ceramic-coated EV by hand instead.
- Never use grease removers, household detergents, or cleaning solutions that are abrasive.
- Avoid washing the car under direct sunlight, as it will dry fast, and you will end up with streaks and spots. Wash in a spot that’s shaded, in the evening, or during the early morning hours.
- Don’t allow bird droppings, tree sap, or splattered bugs to sit on the car’s surface for long, as these can etch ceramic coatings.
What Else?
Get your ceramic-coated EV inspected by professionals annually, so they can tackle minor issues promptly, if required. You can also apply top coats over the ceramic coating for extra protection. And if you notice that water isn’t beading like before, paint is fading, or the car’s surface feels rough, re-coating might be necessary.
Conclusion
Ceramic coatings for EV vehicles protect the soft paint against scratches, light abrasions, the sun’s harmful rays, and chemicals. Also, they enhance your car’s look, ease maintenance, and boost resale value.
Ceramic coatings are also way more effective than wax and offer the best results when paired with PPF. And if you take enough care, they will be worthy of your investment for years.
Get Your EV Ceramic-Coated at Bravo Protection
The ceramic coating service we offer for EVs at Bravo Protection is exceptionally professional and of premium quality. Our experts also know exactly what different EVs need and can offer you tailored guidance for optimal maintenance.
So, get in touch without delay. We can address your queries on (952) 476-7025 or at sales@bravoprotection.com.
FAQs
1. How is EV paint different from that on traditional cars?
Paints used on EVs are usually water-based, and hence, softer than the solvent-based counterparts used on conventional vehicles. Naturally, EV paints are more prone to damage.
2. Can ceramic coatings protect EV paints against rock chips?
No, ceramic coatings are not very effective against rock chips, so it’s ideal to pair them with paint protection film.
3. Can I use wax to protect my EV’s paint instead of ceramic coatings?
While you can use wax instead of ceramic coatings, it will fall short on environmental protection, durability, scratch resistance, and maintenance.
4. How long do ceramic coatings for EV vehicles last?
If maintained well, ceramic coatings can last from 2 to 5 years.
5. Can I take my ceramic-coated EV to automatic washes?
Avoid doing so as the spinning brushes in an automatic wash might cause scratches and abrasions. Instead, wash by hand using the two-bucket method and a pH-neutral shampoo.
