Connected Car Automotive Glazing Innovation Hybrid Windshield Technology | Next-Generation Automobiles | Corning

Corning® Gorilla® Glass for Automotive is driving innovation in spaces well beyond consumer electronics with lighter, tougher, optically advantaged glass for next-generation automobiles.

Corning helped thousands of tech enthusiasts take the wheel of the ultimate connected-car experience at the 2016 International Consumer Electronics show (CES) in Las Vegas. The console surfaces glistened with sleek Corning® Gorilla® Glass for Automotive, clearly showcasing how the light, tough, optically advantaged glass is driving automotive innovation in spaces well beyond consumer electronics.

The hybrid windshield technology in Corning’s mock-up vehicle featured an inner layer of Gorilla Glass for Automotive, which trimmed the weight of the windshield laminate by 30%. It also created a pristine surface for a bright, crisp head-up display, letting the drivers check critical information like speed and fuel levels while keeping their eyes on the road.

The interior also showcased Gorilla Glass at every turn to bring the connected car to life.

A smooth, interactive touchscreen dashboard mirrored the same functionality consumers have come to expect on their smartphones. Easy management of comfort control, music, and customized photos were just a finger flick away. And a curved, glass-covered center console showed visitors how next generation glass can also bring chic aesthetic appeal to the driving experience of next-generation automobiles.

“I think that visitors were blown away at all the interior automotive possibilities,” said Doug Harshbarger, division vice president and director, Auto Glass Solutions. “The really exciting thing is that most of these technologies aren’t really that far off from mass production – we could see them integrated into automobiles within the coming years.”

One of those next-generation automobiles will be in production by Ford later this year. Crowds admired a glistening yellow Ford GT supercar – honored as the Official Show Vehicle of CES – with a design built completely around aerodynamic efficiency. By using Gorilla Glass for Automotive hybrid windshield technology in the windshield, bulkhead (a separation window between the seats and rear engine), and engine cover, the automaker removed 12 pounds from the vehicle and significantly lowered its center of gravity. Corning and Ford announced this collaboration on December 15.

“The recent Ford announcement generated a lot of interest around Gorilla Glass for Automotive,” Doug said. “Booth visitors loved the car – how could they not?”

A bit farther down the Las Vegas strip, Gorilla Glass for Automotive was also featured in the “Σtos” concept car at the Hard Rock Hotel. Swiss think tank and mobility innovator Rinspeed incorporated Gorilla Glass into the car’s sunroof, rear window, and drone landing pad. 

“Rinspeed is known for its forward-looking designs and hotel visitors were intrigued with the look and possibilities of the 2016 ‘Σtos’ concept car,” said Doug.

“Automotive innovations were a big trend at CES this year and right in line with the vision Corning portrayed in ‘A Day Made of Glass’ several years ago,” Doug added. “It’s great that Corning is a vital part of this larger story.”