February 28, 2008 4:47 PM PST

Self-cleaning windshields

Hidra concept car

The Hidra concept car doesn't need windshield wipers.

(Credit: Fioravanti)

Pininfarina automotive designer Leonardo Fioravanti's Hidra concept car uses windshields that repel water and dirt, doing away with the need for wipers. The nanotechnology-based windshield has four layers, with the titanium oxide top layer designed to quickly repel water. A second layer pushes dirt off to its sides, keeping the windshield clean. A third layer works as a sensor, while the fourth layer is charged with electricity to run the whole apparatus. An article describing the technology and concept car appeared in the Italian publication, la Repubblica, and can be read in English here, thanks to the magic of Google.

(Source: Edmunds Straightline)

Originally posted at The Car Tech blog
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Add a Comment (Log in or register) 3 comments (Page 1 of 1)
Sounds great for the rain...
by SntaCruz83 February 28, 2008 6:15 PM PST
I'm curious how this will deal with bird droppings and bug splats and other such things that can impair a driver's field of view.
Reply to this comment
Great, Will it ever be out?
by speedvillain March 3, 2008 4:35 PM PST
Now is this supposed to replace wipers indefinately? Will this ever make it to the public or is this something we have to wait 10 years for? Concept doesn't always make it out there that's for sure.
Reply to this comment
it's based on aircraft tech used right now.
by is1ander March 3, 2008 6:31 PM PST
able to repel ice too, i think.
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