Electroluminescent Coating Systems for Heavy-Duty Trucks: Advancing Safety and Sustainability through Smart Surface Technology

2026-26-0275

1/16/2026

Authors
Abstract
Content
As the transportation industry pivots towards safer and more sustainable mobility solutions, the role of advanced surface technologies is becoming increasingly critical. This paper presents a novel application of electroluminescent (EL) coating systems in heavy-duty trucks, exploring their potential to enhance vehicular safety and reduce environmental impact through lightweight, energy-efficient lighting integration.
Electroluminescent coatings, capable of emitting light uniformly across painted surfaces when electrically activated, offer a transformative alternative to conventional external lighting and reflective materials. In the context of heavy-duty trucks, these systems can significantly improve visibility under low-light and adverse weather conditions, thereby reducing the risk of road accidents. Furthermore, the uniform illumination achieved without bulky fixtures contributes to aerodynamic efficiency, supporting fuel economy and reducing carbon emissions. use of this coating system, can optimize tooled up plastic part and sub-assemblies specially to those parts we use for indication, marking, highlight & lighting assisting during dark
This paper identifies and evaluates specific use cases where EL coatings can deliver substantial benefits: for example, Exterior Lighting systems, Perimeter Lighting for Night Operations, Ingress/degrees illumination with Integrated Safety Features, Emergency and Breakdown Visibility & Trucking illumination accessories. Accentuate brand specific, Technology & design features over a truck
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Pages
8
Citation
Harel, S., Borse, M., and L, K., "Electroluminescent Coating Systems for Heavy-Duty Trucks: Advancing Safety and Sustainability through Smart Surface Technology," SAE Technical Paper 2026-26-0275, 2026, https://doi.org/10.4271/2026-26-0275.
Additional Details
Publisher
Published
Jan 16
Product Code
2026-26-0275
Content Type
Technical Paper
Language
English