Graphene. Just the word sounds scientific and complicated. But wait a minute. The fact is, it is and it isn’t. The discovery of graphene in 2004 did lead to a Nobel Prize. But the benefits to you as a car or truck owner couldn’t be more simple.
We’ll come back to what graphene is – and why it simply can’t be topped for strength, protection and glorious shine – in just a moment. For now, when you see the Rain-X® Graphene logo at your local car wash, and you decide to pony up for that wash package, here’s the “plain English” on what you get:
- Unbeatable strength
- Stunning richness, gloss and shine
- Longest-lasting protection
- Best water beading
- Eliminates water spots
- Repels dust and dirt
- Resists chips and cracks
- Cars stay cleaner longer – much longer
What is Graphene?
Graphene is a form of carbon, like diamond or graphite. It’s ultra-thin (a single layer of atoms sometimes called “two dimensional”). It has a unique hexagonal lattice structure (don’t pretend you understand it – nobody does). It also has properties so amazing they almost can’t be believed. Graphene is 200 times stronger than steel, yet six times lighter. On top of that, graphene is flexible, transparent, anti-static (less dust) and highly hydrophobic (more water beading on cars). For a deeper dive, read the graphene white paper here.
Of course, graphene was not originally a car care product and has many uses beyond car washing. In electronics, it creates faster and more efficient transistors, leading to advancements in computing. Graphene-based sensors have shown promise in detecting various substances, including gasses and DNA molecules. Graphene is being used in the production of batteries, semiconductors, aerospace materials, medical devices and water purification equipment.
Still, it wasn’t long before the “magic” of graphene technology was appreciated in the car wash industry and applied to vehicle care. Today, there are many graphene products available, and NCS surveys show 80% of car wash operators are already offering them to customers.
But that’s not the end of the story. Because not all graphene coatings are created equal.
Rain-X® Graphene – Ultimate Protection
Since 1972, Rain-X® has been a leader in automotive surface protection. The Rain-X® brand holds the #1 spot for all-surface protectants with over 80% brand awareness. Rain-X is estimated to generate over $91 million annually for wash operators. 80.3% of consumers hold a positive perception of the brand, reinforcing its standing as a trusted name in automotive care.
When choosing a graphene product to offer at your wash, Rain-X is a natural choice that is not only well known but has been tested and proven.
Putting Rain-X Graphene to the Test
The influence of Rain-X on consumer behavior is particularly notable in settings like conveyor car washes, where 44% of consumers opt to upgrade their service packages when Rain-X products are featured.
Having branded logos such as Rain-X Graphene on the menu drives an average increase of $1.51 per service ticket, according to an NCS case study of one major national carwash operator.
Another case study involving a large NCS customer showed dramatic gains in the first 72 days after adding Rain-X® Graphene to their top tier car wash offering. Sales rose $131,720 and there were 1,221 new memberships added.
Detailed Benefits of Rain-X Graphene
The use of graphene in the carwash industry marks a significant advancement in protect, seal and shine performance. The next level protection includes the following:
- Unmatched strength: The two-dimensional structure and honeycomb pattern of graphene contribute is strong, light and flexible at the same time, offering unparalleled hardness, durability and protection against chips and cracks
- Superior water-beading: Due to its hydrophobic qualities, water does not just roll off but is actively repelled, resulting in a cleaner, shiner car surface without spotting
- Anti-dust capabilities: Rain-X Graphene also significantly reduces the accumulation of dust and dirt on the car in days and weeks following the wash, enhanced by its enduring antistatic properties
- Exceptional gloss and shine: Graphene’s nanoparticle layer imparts a spectacular gloss, enhanced slickness, and richer color depth, resulting in a visually striking finish
The Synergistic Power of Graphene and Ceramic Coatings
While graphene stands strong on its own, it can also be used in conjunction with ceramic coatings to provide even more protection. This combination amplifies the benefits, offering triple the durability, enhanced UV and heat protection, and an even deeper gloss. It’s a perfect example of how combining forces can lead to an exceptional outcome.
Marketing Graphene: Tips for Car Wash Owners
Now that we’ve covered why graphene is great, how can car wash owners convey these advantages to their customers?
Here are some strategic marketing tips:
- Tailor Your Messaging: Different customers value different benefits. Whether it’s the longevity of the coating or the incredible gloss, make sure your marketing messages are targeted to specific customer interests and needs.
- Utilize Social Media: Engage with customers where they spend a lot of their time. Use before-and-after images, video testimonials, and live demonstrations of the coating process to highlight graphene’s benefits.
- Effective Email Campaigns: Create concise, compelling emails that explain the unique advantages of graphene. This direct line of communication can be used to educate and entice customers with special offers.
- Simplify Complex Information: Use clear, catchy phrases in your promotions to make the high-tech benefits of graphene understandable and attractive. Phrases like “Ultra High Gloss” and “Hydrophobic Hero” can grab attention quickly.
- Engage Through Events and Demos: Host events or workshops to demonstrate the effectiveness of graphene coatings in person. Seeing is believing, and live demos can be a powerful persuader.
- Leverage Customer Testimonials: Share stories and reviews from customers who have experienced the graphene difference. Authentic voices and real results build trust and interest.
- Network at Industry Events: Present your services at car wash expos and auto shows to reach a broader audience. These events are excellent for demonstrating your expertise and connecting with potential customers.
Enhance Customer Loyalty With Rain-X® Graphene
If you’re looking for a way to enhance customer loyalty and offer a superior protective product, look no further. The advanced protection of Rain-X® Graphene – available only from NCS – will keep your customers’ cars looking like new and your customers coming back for more. National Carwash Solutions has the chemical products you need to add the most sought-after services to your wash. Contact us and learn more about what these products can do for you and your customers.
