Nissan isn’t looking far beneath the surface to try and reduce temperatures inside its cars. Partnering with a Chinese firm, Nissan has developed “cool paint” to cover its vehicles. In theory, the paint helps drivers and passengers feel cooler inside cars, which reduces the need for air conditioning, which in turn saves energy and reduces emissions. The paint works not only by reflecting sun rays, a common practice for whitewashed buildings and structures, but also by creating electromagnetic waves to redirect thermal energy. In trials, the paint – which is six-times thicker than normal – has successfully reduced cars’ surface temperatures by 12C and their internal temperatures by 5C. It might not be enough to stop Nissan owners from turning on the air conditioning in the height of summer, but it could help take the edge off. Small steps.