Genesis showcases world-first heated windscreen technology

Designed to make winter motoring safer and more convenient than ever, Genesis’ Metal-Coated Heated Glass clears 100% of frost from the windscreen surface within five minutes – three times more quickly than conventional systems in sub-zero conditions.

The key to achieving exceptional defrosting performance with Metal-Coated Heated Glass lies in the adoption of a world-first dedicated 48-volt system, developed exclusively to power the defrosting and demisting functions. Converting energy from the car’s 800-volt electrical system, the technology passes a current through the 20-layer transparent windscreen coating, raising the temperature of the glass consistently and completely clearing the windscreen.

The technology is designed to enhance the thermal energy management system of electric cars, which regulates the temperature of vital components including the battery and motors. Metal-Coated Heated Glass consumes around 10% less power, thanks to a significantly quicker defrosting time compared with a conventional HVAC air conditioner.

Designed for all seasons

The metal coating layer has a high-performance solar reflection function, blocking at least 60% of total solar energy, helping to lower cabin temperature by 2-3°C in summer. This greater energy efficiency in colder and warmer temperatures not only allows for greater utilisation of convenience features inside the cabin, but also helps to boost available driving range.

Metal-Coated Heated Glass technology has been tested on Genesis’ GV70 and GV60 electric models in temperatures as low as -18°C, achieving a completely clear windscreen in just five minutes. In the same conditions, the conventional 13.5-volt power system was found to take over 15 minutes, highlighting the considerable improvement in defrosting performance in the most challenging of conditions.

Developed for the future of autonomous cars

The system also supports the functionality of autonomous car technologies, which rely on a clean and clear windscreen to perform effectively. Car windscreens now host a range of sensors used for collecting essential vehicle data, meaning any residual frost or moisture can compromise their ability to gather crucial information – impacting the reliability and performance of autonomous driving systems.

A clear vision

As well as quickly and completely clearing the windscreen, Metal-Coated Heated Glass enhances visibility by eliminating traditional visible tungsten wires found in conventional glass, which obstruct the vision of drivers.

The Metal-Coated Heated Glass technology’s efficiency could eliminate the requirement for front screen HVAC systems, and create new possibilities for bold head up display technology and augmented reality navigation systems.

“Genesis cars are designed to make journeys as easy and comfortable as possible all year round, but safety and convenience become paramount in colder temperatures,” said Tyrone Johnson, Managing Director of Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Center. “After being the first to introduce facial recognition technology on the Genesis GV60 last year, we’re proud to be showcasing another technological innovation with Metal-Coated Heated Glass, designed to efficiently and effortlessly deal with cold conditions for our customers.”

While this technology is not yet confirmed for introduction on future Genesis models, Hyundai Motor Group has already filed patents for Metal-Coated Heated Glass across major markets to enable future product application.