ABB’s PixelPaint technology has been deployed at the Mercedes-Benz Sindelfingen plant in Germany, adding to the site’s painting processes by enabling the precise application of intricate paint designs. The sustainable and resource-saving technology began operation in 2025 as the luxury manufacturer develops new personalized options for its most exclusive models.
Joerg Reger, Managing Director of ABB Robotics Automotive Business Line said, “PixelPaint uses an award-winning paint head similar to an inkjet printer that can apply large areas of color as well as precise details with complete accuracy. In an entirely automated process that requires no manual intervention, the technology opens new possibilities for vehicle manufacturers as they look to increase personalization in response to rising consumer demand while also reducing emissions.”
PixelPaint consists of a paint head with more than 1,000 tiny, individually controlled nozzles, mounted on an ABB robot such as the IRB 5500 paint series. Combined with ABB’s 3D vision system and coordinated by ABB’s RobotStudio planning and programming software, the head tracks very closely to the vehicle body to ensure that 100 percent of the paint is applied to the car with no overspray or airborne misting. This eliminates the need for labor-intensive masking and repeat trips through the paint shop, resulting in zero waste, reduced environmental treatment requirements, and lower emissions overall.
The technology can recreate even the most intricate designs with unprecedented precision, while ABB’s 3D vision system enables a high degree of repeatability. This ensures that each painted panel appears identical to the next.
Mercedes-Benz will first use PixelPaint on the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series. To further enhance the exclusivity of this model, the obsidian black hood is available upon request with an intricate Maybach pattern in contrasting graphite grey.
Dr. Julia Schuchardt, Head of Process Development, Coating Technology & Corrosion Protection at Mercedes-Benz AG said, “The success of this project was only possible due to the close cooperation between ABB, the high-quality paint supplier, PPG, and the Mercedes-Benz project team. “With an eye on the future, we are already working to develop the application further in order to offer more color combinations and motifs to our customers.”