Acoustic Windshields Benefit Consumers and the Environment

People spend a lot of time in their cars these days. In fact, in the western world, drivers and passengers spend a significant part of their lives in cars. In Europe, the figure is 274 hours per person a year, while in the US it is 541 hours a year.*

With so much time spent in cars, it is not surprising that consumers would like to have a quieter experience when driving. Wind and road noise can feel distracting, and even fatiguing after long hours spent driving. Today's savvy consumer is looking for a quieter ride where they can enjoy good music or a book on CD, or simply a great conversation with friends.

The good news is that today's mid size vehicles can be exceptionally quiet, virtually free of rattle, wind and road noise which seemed to be traits reserved for hi-end luxury vehicles. One reason for this trend? Acoustic windshields.

Acoustic windshields are the same as a standard windshield, but they have been made with a thin, sound absorbing technology between the glass that reduces the interior noise by 3dB overall, and even more in the frequency where people "hear" the human voice.

In fact, acoustic windshields could be found on 1 of every 7 vehicles produced in 2008. Consumers can certainly hear the difference and automakers are listening. But there is also another benefit – increased fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions.

The environmental benefits are a result of the special acoustic interlayer found inside the windshield. This technology actually allows automakers to use thinner glass without sacrificing cabin comfort. A lighter windshield reduces the weight of the vehicle -- which increases MPG and reduces the CO2 created by the engine.

It is easy to know if you have an acoustic windshield – many automakers have created a special "bug" on the glass that identifies it as acoustic. Just look for a symbol similar to the ones pictures at right on your windshield. And if you have an acoustic windshield, be sure to specify an acoustic replacement windshield whenever it is time to have your windshield replaced.

* Financial Times: The future dashboard http://specials.ft.com/ftit/june2001/FT3A72I0JNC.html.

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