Toyota has developed a scratch resistant clear-coat paint, and it will be coming to the 2010 Lexus LS. Other cars may receive it in the future.

Toyota isn’t the first to do this, as Nissan developed something similar in 2005.

The words “scratch resistant” suggests that it doesn’t scratch. However, what actually happens is that it restores itself after being deformed. Toyota says that it also helps preserve the original colour and gloss of the car, while requiring no special maintenance.

It does this using a special ingredient which encourages closer molecular bonding. This increases the paint’s flexibility and elasticity, making it less vulnerable to scratches, as well as damage from acid rain and strong sunlight.

Source: Automotive World via MotorAuthority