AGC gives its innovation strategy a new boost with a second exclusive panoramic roof

AGC Automotive Europe is now supplying the sliding version of its light control glass roof, available as an option, on the prestigious Mercedes-Maybach S 600.  Thanks to WONDERLITE™ technology, this laminated roof can be switched from transparent to dark blue at the mere touch of a button. Furthermore, it is the largest in its category.

Maximum comfort

The sliding roof has a total area of 1.7 m² compared with 1.3 m² for the fixed version, itself nearly three times larger than any comparable product on the market. Apart from its ability to slide open, the size increases the exclusive sensation of opening to the outside, whatever the conditions, while also making the driving environment considerably brighter. Based on the latest advancements in SPD(1) technology, the WONDERLITETM glass roof directly serves the ambition of offering maximum comfort to passengers in all new luxury models.

Protection from UV and infrared radiations

WONDERLITE™ glass roof also benefits from solar control layers(2) which filter out ultraviolet radiations, helping to protect against sunburn and to prevent fading of the vehicle interior. It also reflects infrared radiations, directly reducing the need for air-conditioning, and thus lowering fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. This dual action operates both in transparent and in dark blue modes. According to Jean-Marc Meunier, General Manager of AGC Automotive Europe, “This innovation reinforces the group’s ambition and capacity to develop glass products with high added value for its automotive customers.”

(1) Suspended Particle Devices (SPD): thin-film technology in which particles inside laminated glass become aligned when an electrical voltage is applied, making the glass structure transparent.

(2) Metal thin film coatings which, when deposited on the glass surface, give it greater insulating and/or solar control properties.

AGC Automotive Europe

Based in Louvain-la-Neuve (Belgium), AGC Automotive Europe is a member of AGC Glass Europe, which in turn is the European branch of AGC Group. The AGC Group, with Tokyo-based Asahi Glass Co., Ltd. at its core, is a world-leading supplier of flat, automotive and display glass, chemicals and other high-tech materials and components. AGC Automotive Europe specializes in production of windows (OEM and replacement) for vehicle manufacturers. It also provides ready-to-assemble systems (fixation devices), higher value added functional systems (antennas, sensors, heating elements) and enhanced property glazing (improved thermal, sound and vision comfort).

For more information go to: www.agc-automotive.com (automotive glass), www.agc-glass.eu (corporate site) or www.yourglass.com (glass for the construction industry).