It all began with a collaboration between the new All-Electric MINI Countryman, NOI-based company Emotitech, and the internationally renowned artist Luca Font. What connected them was the shared vision of a sustainable, socially and environmentally innovative future. 

Emotitech operates in the field of human innovation, developing products, brands and technologies that focus on people and their emotions. We used the Lab Desk to connect Emotitech experts with the Laboratory for Flavours and Metabolites at the Laimburg Research Centre and the Accelerated Life Testing Lab at Eurac Research. This enabled them to study, test and create different combinations of polyurethane paints based on fluorinated resins and photocatalytic coatings. The aim was to develop a bespoke solution that could protect external concrete, increase durability and reduce air pollution. 

The result is Urban Shield, a public artwork adorning the walls of the ramp at the entrance to our garage. This permanent art installation combines art and technological development, acting as a test bed to evaluate the durability of this innovative paint. Enhancing people’s quality of life is at the heart of this project, which aligns with our values and those of the MINI brand. 

Find out more about this service here.