Future proofing automotive refinish through robotics

BASF Coatings is strengthening its role in robotics-enabled Automotive Refinish by combining coatings expertise, digital color management and application process know-how. Through close collaboration with OEMs and automation partners, the company aims to help shape the future of automated paint application in body shops. Drawing on its experience in repair processes and connected digital workflows, BASF Coatings supports customers in implementing robotics-enabled solutions for more consistent, scalable and future-ready repair operations.

As automation gains relevance in collision repair, BASF Coatings is working closely with robotics suppliers, pilot customers and industry partners to support customers with validated process expertise and practical implementation guidance for roboticsenabled repair environments. The company’s focus goes beyond testing and validation by actively contributing to future application standards, scalable process frameworks and the integration of robotics into real-world body shop operations. BASF Coatings does not develop robotics hardware itself, but differentiates through its deep understanding of coatings, application processes and system integration within Automotive Refinish.

Robotics extends connected refinish processes

Robotics is seen as a natural extension of BASF Coatings’ end-to-end digital color process. Within the Refinity® ecosystem – the digital ecosystem for managing the body shop business – digital color scanning, matching, mixing and workflow management already support efficient and consistent repair processes. Robotics adds a further step by connecting digital process control with physical paint application.

“Robotics brings together digital color management and physical application in a single connected process,” said Chen Liu, Global Head of Technology Automotive Refinish Coatings. “The true differentiation lies not in the robot itself, but in how BASF integrates coatings, process and application expertise to deliver consistent quality in real-world body shop environments. By combining these strengths, we are shaping scalable and repeatable application standards that will define the future of automotive refinish.”

Focus on efficiency, consistency and future-ready repair

Initial robotics applications primarily focus on standardized applications of primer, basecoat and clearcoat on complete vehicle parts. In this context, repeatability, throughput and material efficiency are the key drivers. Broader application to specific processes, such as blending or interior painting, is expected as the technology matures. “We see robotics as an important future topic for Automotive Refinish and want to help customers navigate this evolving environment with confidence,” said Roar Solberg, Vice President Automotive Refinish Coatings EMEA. “Our approach is to provide orientation, validation and close collaboration so customers can make informed decisions about future-ready repair processes.”

By combining coatings expertise with digital workflows and application know-how, BASF Coatings aims to support the development of more efficient, consistent and future-ready repair operations globally.