Fifty production and concept vehicles on show at the 2005 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) until 23 January offer laminated glass as standard or optional equipment in non-windshield appl…
Fifty production and concept vehicles on show at the 2005 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) until 23 January offer laminated glass as standard or optional equipment in non-windshield applications in North America, as reported by the Enhanced Protective Glass Automotive Association (EPGAA). From being nonexistent at the 2000 NAIAS, to an approximate 150% increase over 2004, this growth clearly demonstrates the consumer and industry embrace of this automotive safety glass. “The EPGAA has been working to educate the industry and consumers on using laminated glass in applications other than windshields,” said Mike Sanders, director for DuPont Automotive Safety Systems and EPGAA President. “This rapid adoption is proof that automakers and consumers alike are realizing the great benefits of laminated glass.” Laminated glass uses a plastic interlayer or film composite that is factory laminated to multiple glass layers. Laminated glass offers a variety of benefits including acoustic improvement, weight savings of 12% over conventional tempered glass vehicle windows, enhanced security, and safety and solar protection, according to the EPGAA. This application also meets all regulatory and industry standards for performance of glazing materials. The Enhanced Protective Glass Automotive Association (EPGAA) is composed of laminate and glass providers to provide information and overall education on the development of laminated glass for added vehicle security, occupant comfort and safety. Currently, DuPont Automotive; Glasstech, Inc.; Guardian Industries Corp.; PPG Industries, Inc.; Saint-Gobain Sekurit; Sekisui America Corporation; Solutia Automotive; Southwall Technologies; Tamglass; and Visteon are members of EPGAA.