This is how JLR’s quest for paint perfection is being realised through ostrich feathers and sustainable innovation
JLR turns to ostrich feathers for unparalleled paint perfection. Combining sustainability with cutting-edge innovation, these feathers ensure flawless finishes while enhancing eco-friendly manufacturing.
In the continuous search for the perfect paint finish, JLR has turned to an unlikely ally: ostrich feathers. Known for their speed and size, ostriches are now taking off in the automotive industry. Their sustainably sourced feathers are playing a crucial role in ensuring JLR’s vehicles leave the factory with a flawless paint finish.
At JLR’s production facilities in Solihull, Castle Bromwich, Halewood, and Nitra, innovative feather profiling machines are used in paintshops. These devices, which resemble feathered car washes, gently dust down vehicle shells before the painting process begins. The result is a pristine surface for the paint to adhere to, free from imperfections caused by dust or static electricity.
The Science of feather technology
Ostrich feathers owe their cleaning prowess to their unique composition. Made of keratin, the same protein found in human hair and nails, the feathers are strong yet flexible. Their branched structure creates an expansive surface area, perfect for trapping dust. Additionally, natural oils in the feathers prevent static build-up, which is critical in automotive painting.
Static electricity forms when car bodies are primed, a process that creates friction and an electrostatic charge. This charge attracts dust particles, which, if not removed, can compromise the quality of the paint finish. By neutralising static electricity and capturing dust, the ostrich feathers ensure a spotless surface and a professional-grade result.
Sustainability at the core of JLR’s ostrich tech paint finishes
JLR’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its sourcing of ostrich feathers. The feathers are procured from a farm in South Africa where they are collected after naturally shedding from the birds. This practice not only supports a circular economy but also aligns with JLR’s Reimagine strategy, which prioritises environmental responsibility across the company’s operations.
Timothy Proudlock, Paint Automation Engineer at JLR, explained: “Using naturally shed ostrich feathers not only ensures a flawless finish for our cars but also aligns with our commitment to sustainability. It’s a win-win for our customers and the environment. The unique properties of these feathers allow us to achieve a level of cleanliness and precision that synthetic materials simply can’t match.”
JLR remains innovating for the future of electric automobility and automotive production
This unconventional yet effective method underscores JLR’s commitment to combining tradition and innovation. By incorporating a low-tech solution into their otherwise high-tech manufacturing processes, the company is setting new standards for quality and sustainability in the automotive industry.
JLR continues to refine its operations, with the humble ostrich feather standing as a potential symbol of how natural materials can complement cutting-edge technology to create luxury products that meet both consumer expectations and environmental imperatives.
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