Continental unveils efficiency improving window technology

Automotive component manufacturers Continental has developed a new film for car windows that could improve the efficiency of all cars fitted with the technology.

The company plans to exhibit the new material for intelligent glass control in a demonstration at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). The system operates by altering the transparency of the car’s windows through the application of electric currents applied to films that are inserted into the glass.

The technology would work by tinting specific areas of the screen to prevent glare from the sun and the amount of heat entering the car. This means the vehicle would weigh less thanks to the removal of items such as sun visors and a reduction in the size of the heavy air conditioning unit.

Whilst the idea has been circulating for some time, Continental are the first to further develop the technology, with plans to take it further still.

The intelligent glass system also has safety and privacy implications. The film means drivers will not need to remove their hands from the wheel to shield their eyes from the sun by fixing the sun visor.
Furthermore, when parked, the tint can be activated in all of the car’s windows, shielding the objects inside which could tempts thieves, and also preventing the interior from heating up while you are away from the vehicle.

These improvements have been calculated to reduce CO2 emissions by around four g/km, while the range of electric vehicles (EVs) is extended by around 5.5 per cent, with no changes to the battery or drivetrain.

Along with this technology, Continental has been exploring the possibility of developing a system that could recover energy from the sun to help run auxiliary systems or charge an EV’s battery, creating the potential for significantly adding to a car’s efficiency or range.

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