Early windshields were made of ordinary window glass, but that could lead to serious injuries in the event of a crash. Later versions were made of toughened glass and were fitted in the frame using a rubber seal. This type of glass shattered into mostly harmless fragments when the windshield broke but was prone to shattering from a simple stone chip.

Modern windshields are generally made of two curved sheets of tempered glass, with a PVB plastic layer laminated between them for safety, and bonded into the window frame. If one layer of glass breaks, the laminate and the inside layer of glass hold the windshield together, keeping pieces of glass from injuring occupants of the car or falling on the road.

The laminated safety glass for windshield first became available in France from 1911, and some high-end American auto manufacturers began to use it in 1913. Henry Ford ordered the use of laminated glass on all of his vehicles from 1919.

Repair or Replacement?

You are driving on a highway, minding your own business, and …. POW! After you have recovered from the unexpected hit, you know that something hit the windshield and there may be a visible sign of damage, such as a pit or crack. It’s generally not dangerous to drive with a small crack in the windshield. But with time, as moisture, dirt and even windshield washer fluid can seep into the glass sandwich layers, windshield becomes discoloured and further decreases visibility.

Safety Tip

It’s important to avoid pressing on a broken windshield from the interior of the car. Because of its concave shape, a crack can severely weaken the windshield’s structural integrity, and the glass is likely to continue cracking if pressure is placed on it from the inside.

According to the U.S. National Windshield Repair Association (www. NWRASSN.org), a division of the Auto Glass Safety Council, many types of stone damage can be successfully repaired. Circular bullseyes, crack chips, dings, pits, star-shaped breaks and linear cracks up to six centimetres in length can be repaired without removing the glass, eliminating the risk of leaking or bonding problems sometimes associated with replacement.

Still, damaged glass is a serious issue and may render a car unsafe to drive. Therefore, it should be repaired or replaced as soon as possible for two important reasons:

Windshields weakened by damage provide less protection.

Cracked windshields decrease visibility.

Though not an immediate danger, if the crack is large or if it is near or touching the edge of the windshield, the glass may have to be replaced and driving the car is not recommended.

Buyer Be Aware!

Original equipment (OE) windshields have specified surface quality and built-in stress level. Many are solar-optimised to block UV, reduce interior heat buildup, and have better acoustic attenuation for a quieter ride.

The aftermarket windshields may be missing some or all of these qualities, and consumers may not be aware of these shortcomings.

Another difference between OE and aftermarket glass is residual stress levels around the perimeter called the ‘Weak Spot’ which causes windshield to crack from the edge.

A windshield repair costs much less than a replacement. A chip repair prevents a crack, and a crack repair prevents having to replace the windshield. Also, don’t be talked into ‘replacement’ if the damage could be ‘repaired.’ Just make sure, whether you have a chip or a crack and get it repaired ASAP.

The National Windshield Repair Association is recognised nationally and worldwide as a professional source of reliable information on the windshield repair industry. Their education and certification programme shows that those certified have successfully completed proficiency training to repair and replace laminated auto glass in compliance with ANSI/NWRA/ROLAGS 001-2014.

Whether you choose to drive to a glass shop or have a repair technician come to you, the choice is yours! Many companies offer mobile auto glass service at your home or office to perform needed windshield repair or replacement. It is especially convenient during the current pandemic lockdown.

Recycling Windshield Glass

In the US, about 13-14 million windshields are replaced each year, creating an environmental need for recycling. Although the composite nature of the windshield glass makes it difficult to recycle it, some patented technologies are available. Damaged windshields are processed through a crusher, which separates the glass from PVB interlayer.

Approximately 90 percent becomes ‘glass cullet,’ which can then be recycled into a number of new products including fibreglass insulation. Roughly seven percent becomes PVB plastic scrap, which is reprocessed into pellets and used for a number of new applications, such as carpet backing, paint and primer, and other plastic products. (MT)

Banner Batteries, one of Europe’s leading manufacturers of original equipment batteries, has appointed Andrew Russell as its new Business Development Manager for Northern England and Scotland. The appointment is in line with Banner’s strategy to increase its market share in these key regions.

Russell will be responsible for enhancing connections with Banner's extensive clientele, which includes motor factors, independent distributors, garages, and specialty automobile parts stores. He will report to Country Manager Lee Quinney. Russell brings with him over two decades of experience in the UK aftermarket sector. Russell, who graduated from the University of the West of England with a BA (Hons) in Business Administration, began his career in retail management before switching to sales. Prior to joining Banner, he was Ring Automotive's Business Development Manager, where he was named the company's top salesperson in 2023. Account management, company development and building enduring connections with customers are his strong points.

Russell said, “I am delighted to get the opportunity to work for Banner, not only as they are one of Europe’s leading manufacturers of original equipment batteries, but a family-owned business. In order to continue to develop Banner’s market penetration across what is an important sales territory, I shall be looking to focus on four key principles – promoting O/E product quality aligned to price competitiveness, delivering outstanding levels of customer service and developing long-standing and successful customer relationships.”

Quinney said, “The whole team at Banner is delighted to welcome Andrew into the fold. He has a proven track record in the automotive aftermarket, and we are confident this will prove instrumental in strengthening Banner’s position across Scotland and the north, both of which are important strategic territories. Supplying a first-class service to our customer base remains one of our main priorities, together with promoting Banner’s original equipment pedigree, and Andrew will help spearhead this moving forwards.”

Manba Finance Limited, a NBFC, has announced a strategic alliance with BGauss Auto, Fin Coopers Capital and ProsParity to drive a shift towards sustainable mobility and empower the aspirations of customers across the country.
The association with BGauss Auto will help Manba Finance Limited to financing the former’s electric vehicles (EVs), making it easier in turn to tap the growing green mobility market. The NBFC company claims to use technology to streamline lending such that it ensures efficiency and transparency. It is said to offer a range of financial solutions for new two-wheelers, three-wheelers, electric two wheelers, electric three wheelers, used cars and to small businesses. 
The alliance with Fin Coopers Capital in vehicle financing would offer Manba Finance the opportunity to leverage the former’s expertise in investment and capital management. 
The association with ProsParity, on the other hand, will provide the company access to an advanced digital platform that streamlines credit flow and enhances loan processing. 
Monil Shah, Executive Director and Chief Business Officer, Manba Finance Limited, said about the development: “Our partnerships with BGauss Auto, Fin Coopers Capital, and ProsParity will help us to strengthen our commitment to delivering innovative and accessible financial solutions. These partnerships enable us to expand our reach, enhance our offerings, and support communities across India with efficient, transparent, and socially responsible services. Together, we aim to empower individuals and businesses, driving positive change and fostering long-term growth."
 

Kärcher India was the official wash partner for the Mountain Goat Event 2025, held on 15 -16 February 2025 at the Adventure Sports Resort, Kufri. Celebrating 90 years of innovation, Kärcher India brought its Guinness World Record-holding pressure washers to the extreme off-roading event, ensuring that over 80 SUVs remained spotless as they conquered the snow-covered and rocky trails of Shimla–Rampur–Kaza–Kalpa–Manali.
As participants conquered rocky trails, icy roads, and muddy paths, Kärcher India's dedicated washing bay and product showcase stall became a key stop for maintaining vehicle performance and cleanliness. Equipped with high-pressure washers and advanced cleaning technology, the Kärcher team ensured that every vehicle remained in top condition, removing stubborn dirt and grime accumulated throughout the journey. Designed for both B2B and personal use, Kärcher's pressure washers proved their versatility by tackling all kinds of grime—whether from rugged off-road expeditions or everyday cleaning needs.
Jatinder Kaul, Managing Director, Kärcher India, reflected on the collaboration, stating, "Being the Official Wash Partner for the Mountain Goat Event was an incredible opportunity to showcase the efficiency of our cleaning solutions in extreme conditions. Our technology is built for high performance, and this event perfectly showcased how it helps adventure enthusiasts maintain their vehicles even in the most extreme terrains. We’re proud to have been part of this exhilarating journey and look forward to continuing our support for the off-roading community."
Shashwat Gupta and Suraj Tayal, Founders of Mountain Goat, expressed, "Mountain Goat is all about pushing limits, and Kärcher India has once again proven its reliability in the toughest terrains. Having Kärcher India as our Official Wash Partner for this event strengthens our commitment to delivering a seamless and exhilarating experience. Their innovative cleaning technology has been instrumental in keeping our fleet in top condition, even in the harshest terrains. For every off-roader, maintaining their machine is a matter of pride, and Kärcher helps us uphold that passion." 
The event attracted a passionate community of adventure seekers and automotive enthusiasts, with Kärcher India’s presence highlighting its commitment to innovation, precision, and sustainability. By providing superior cleaning performance in the most demanding environments, Kärcher reinforced its position as a trusted brand in high-performance cleaning technology.
 

German tier 1 supplier ZF Group has inaugurated its India first ZF [pro]Tech plus workshop in New Delhi. The new workshop is part of ZF Aftermarket which has a legacy of over 40 years. The ZF [pro]Tech has been empowering workshops by providing technical knowledge, training and service data of OEMs.

The New Delhi workshop was inaugurated by Markus Wittig, Global Head of Business Line Passenger Car, ZF Aftermarket, and Vijay Khorgade, Head of Business Line Pass Car IMEA. Rolly Chadha, Head of European Motor Works and the owner of this workshop, led the inaugural celebration.

Markus Wittig, said, “I am very pleased with this launch of India’s first ZF [pro]Tech plus workshop. This reiterates our commitment and ambition in the Indian market. With this facility, we will be able to provide unparalleled support to our workshop partners, enhancing their capabilities and ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the evolving demands of the automotive industry in India. It also marks the start of a nationwide roll-out of our workshop concept in India.”

Vijay Khorgade, said, “For India, ZF Aftermarket is setting the benchmark for workshop expectations in terms of technology and quality. By offering technical know-how and training, we enable our partners to deliver exceptional service and support to their customers. As most of us know Indian automotive market is on the cusp of an evolution, and the ZF [pro]Tech plus concept enables workshops to keep pace with the new technologies and advances in mobility, making them relevant and ready for the future.”

Rolly Chadha, added, “We have been associated with ZF Group for several years now. As a legacy distributor, we are aware of the technology and quality ZF Aftermarket represents and we are thrilled to be part of ZF [pro]Tech plus network as the first-ever workshop. The comprehensive support and expertise provided by ZF Group will undoubtedly elevate our service standards and help us better serve our customers.”