Shine, shimmer, luster, sparkle, gleam…in our world as detailers, those words are merely different combinations of letters that are all to used describe the Holy Grail of exterior appearance, that being GLOSS. A warehouse full of products designed to enhance it, *really* expensive instruments created to measure it, hours and hour spent chasing it, perfecting it…agonizing over it! Well, as it turns out, you have a choice…and choice is always good!
With that in mind, enter the 2022 Rivian R1T, luminous in its factory shade of Compass Yellow; glossy yellow…bright, vivid, fresh-off-of-the-factory-floor yellow. And while that’s quite nice as delivered (and somewhat typical), there *is* an alternative to all of that shine…an alternative that will not only provide ample rock-chip protection but one which will also transform the character of the vehicle.
Different ends of the spectrum, a taste for all palates, variety is the spice of life…there are many ways to describe true individuality and in the case of this bright yellow Rivian, we think the owner has hit the bullseye by eschewing the the typical pursuit of gloss, preferring instead to change the finish to satin/matte through a full-body application of XPEL Stealth Satin Paint Protection Film. Follow along as we turn a blind eye to mere reflectivity and pursue the subtle, muted elegance of a satin finish!
Upon arrival, a deep cleansing and decontamination of the painted surfaces ensures a long-lasting bond between paint and film.
Once the entire vehicle is prepped, the PPF installation process begins…no such thing as “too many cooks in the kitchen” when fitting the larger pieces!
The difference between the original paint and the satin PPF becomes apparent as the job progresses.
Although the Rivian appears to be a collection of relatively flat panels, there’s plenty of areas that require the experienced hand of an expert installer!
Transformed into a subtle yet still stunning representation of what may indeed be the future of Electric Adventure Vehicles, the satin finish is complimented by the installation of heat-rejecting ceramic window tint. Matching the factory tint on the back doors with 35% on the front doors and applying 75% to the front windshield, it provides a cohesive visual character to the contrasting yellow exterior color. In addition to providing ample UV protection for the interior surfaces, the tint will excel in keeping cockpit temperatures down on a blistering sunny day. While tinting the windshield may give some pause due to visibility concerns, the 75% level allows for excellent visibility at all times….day or night!
Once complete, the stealthy character of the satin film lends the R1T a strong presence, far beyond that of merely a ‘shiny yellow truck’. Amplifying the optical impact by toning down the gloss proves that sometimes you don’t need to shout to stand out in a crowd.
If you would like more information about embarking upon your own vehicle’s visual rebirth, please contact us at 614.855.6855 or via our online Contact Form
If you already have satin/matte factory paint, Satin PPF can provide excellent protection for that as well!
Check out our video “The best way to protect a satin finish” for more info!
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To view another gloss-to-satin transformation, have a look at:
“Stylish and Functional | Tesla Model 3 with Satin Paint Protection Film”
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To browse more of our projects, visit our ever-expanding Detailing Galleries!
