Automotive glazing is now expected to provide more than just perfect visibility, it contains additional functions such as heating & aerials. The increasing differentiation & individualization of vehicle concepts requires more technical features, which need new solutions in materials & surfaces. The integration of new functions is the subject of current research & development activities. The various coating processes represent key technologies in this field & will allow the integration of new properties such as functional surfaces & variable transparency. Electrochromic systems are already in use in mirrors & prevent driver dazzle by automatically shading the mirror. By suitably upscaling & further development these systems are expected to be used for automotive glazing, as discussed in this article.
