Washington, D.C., Auto Show Brings Glass Innovations

Though attendance appeared down at the Washington, D.C., auto show, held last week in our nation's capital, there were some new glass innovations on-site. Wrap-around windows were one major trend, seen on vehicles such as the 2009 Nissan Cube. Solar panels, which have been in the news of late due to their inclusion in the 2009 Toyota Prius, also were prominent, as was laminated "quiet glass," seen on such vehicles as the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu.

"Green" also was a popular concept at both the Auto Show, where a green pavilion featured some of the newest eco-friendly vehicles, and at the SAE Government Meeting, held in conjunction with the show. (CLICK HERE for related story.)

The 2009 Nissan Cube has an asymmetrical wraparound rear window and refrigerator-style rear door.	The 2009 Nissan Maxima has a power rear sliding sunshade, and comes with the option of a front and rear power sliding sunshade.	Solar panels in the moonroof are the newest addition to the 2009 Toyota Prius.

Subaru made safety a top priority with its latest models. Several of the latest 2009 Subaru launches feature intelligent, dual-stage deployment front airbags-along with standard front seat side impact airbags.	The 2009 Chevrolet Equinox features several glass innovations, including a wraparound rear sidelite and a flush-fitting exposed-edge windshield band backlite.	Frameless sidelites with automatic indexing glass complement the 2009 Chevrolet Camaro.

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