MERCEDES-Benz has developed a new type of paint which should help ensure fleet cars keep their pristine finish from new until disposal time.

The scratch-resistant lacquer contains microscopic ceramic particles that harden in the paintshop oven, forming a cross-linked network which makes it harder wearing against car washes and other minor scratches.

The paint, now available on E, S, CL, SL and SLK-class models, provides a three-fold improvement in scratch resistance in tests and a 40% improvement in paint gloss compared with conventional clear lacquers.

The nano-particle clearcoat paint will be introduced on other models in spring 2004.

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