Say good-bye to run-of-the-mill windshield glass. In the next 50 years, glass could contribute to technology much in the same way silicon has in recent years. Before you replace your windshield glass – or buy your next automobile – take a gander at the latest in new windshield technology.
Cutting-Edge Glass Technology Has Arrived!
-
Tough & Tech-Savvy: Gorilla Glass
Born from legendary glassmaker Corning’s automotive segment, Gorilla Glass will be a game-changer for the automotive driving experience. One-third the weight of traditional windshield glass, its light weight improves performance, boosts fuel efficiency and lowers CO emissions. Gorilla Glass is a variation of the screen technology found on millions of smartphones, with added ingredients to help it withstand the rigors of the outdoor climate – and pummeling 75mph down the highway. Twice as resistant to sharp stone impacts, glass is 50% less likely to suffer cracks and necessary replacement. However the real game changer with this latest in translucent tech is its compatibility with car windshield projection technology, including an increased viewing area and clarity three-times brighter and sharper than traditional glass. Most important, however, is its unique capacity to be easily and cost-effectively formed into varying curves and shapes to conform to consoles and dashboards, providing amazing looks and ergonomic operation. - Safe & Smart: Car Windshield Projection Technology
The same technology consumers enjoy via mobile device is now being integrated into the driving experience. Driving a car with a heads up display is a lot like looking at your smartphone – on your windshield. Around in military aircraft since the 1940s, this tech is experiencing a renaissance of sorts due to both concerns over distracted driving, and the internet of things (IoT). Heads up displays, used in conjunction with specialized auto glass, can provide a wealth of information, from the expected speed and fuel readings, to mapping that superimposes itself over real-time road imagery, ID’s obstacles via safety cameras, and pops-up crucial safety information such as upcoming fog and wrecks, all while keeping driver vision focused on the road, where it belongs. The displays can also pair with Bluetooth/smartphones, allowing for hands-free texting and dialing. And within the next 2 years, area fuel locations, restaurant suggestions, advertisements, and even separate, passenger-side videos are expected… To be followed by the capability to swipe your windshield like your phone screen… Wipers please! The tech can be found in an array of vehicle lines, particularly luxury models, including Jaguar, Land Rover, Cadillac, Audi, Lexus, BMW, Toyota, and Hyundai. - Cunning & Cool: VW’s Silver-Embedded, Thermally-Flexible Glass
Do you equally dread the summer and winter in your car? With one season leaving you sweltering and the other a numb-fingered ninny courtesy of all those ice scraping endeavors? VW has discovered a better way: Installing a thin, invisible layer of silver within windshield glass to offer a reflective surface that kicks-back 60% of the sun’s rays in the summer, and fast snow and ice removal in the winter with a bit of added electricity. Will other manufacturers hop-aboard? Only time will tell.
Time for a new windshield? From low-tech, show stopping classic cars to today’s paragons of sportiness and high-tech luxury, Glass Doctor has your automotive window glass needs covered. Contact us and schedule your curbside service today.