New Ford F-150 Windshield Technology Nothing Short of Amazing
Game-changing new F-150 windshield offers greater clarity, faster defrost times, and protection against blunt force.
For most of us, the only time we ever really even think about our windshields is when they crack or break. Then, we just replace them with the same old thing. But unlike every other component on our trucks, the humble windshield hasn’t really changed much over the last 100 years or so. We’re still using antiquated technology, which obviously leaves a lot to be desired. But now, a company called Hyperformance Glass Products has teamed up with Corning, makers of Gorilla Glass, to develop a far superior windshield specifically for the Ford F-150.
Today’s windshields are constructed from two plies of soda-lime glass with a thick plastic laminate in the center. Which leaves a lot to be desired in terms of impact protection, obviously. Large hail is all it takes to smash them and necessitate a replacement. On the other hand, Hyperformance’s new F-150 windshield replaces the thick, heavy center plastic laminate with thinner, lighter, and more durable Gorilla Glass. They then bond it all together using a cutting edge hybrid glazing construction. And the results, well, they speak for themselves.
In the video above, you can watch a massive ice ball being hurdled at Hyperformance’s windshield at 65-70 miles-per-hour. The result? Nothing. Not a single crack, dent, or tiny pitting. This sort of impact would obviously shatter a traditional windshield, requiring a total replacement. But Gorilla Glass hybrids are up to 10 times more resistant to blunt force damage. They also have virtually zero draw lines, which vastly improves their optical clarity, and defrost up to 30% faster than traditional glass.
Amazing stuff, indeed. And Corning’s Kevin Morgan did a nice job of breaking how this insanely strong F-150 glass works while speaking at this year’s SEMA show. “This window is 3.5 mm thick on the outer ply with soda lime, and 0.7 mm with the Gorilla Glass on the inner plane. So, what you get out of this window is something that’s three times tougher when you compare it against a standard soda lime window. With the Gorilla Glass, these strengthened inner ply almost act as a buffer. When the window gets struck with this piece of ice, it takes that energy and transfers it back.”
Other than the obvious safety element of Hyperformance’s windshield, there are other benefits as well. Replacing F-150 glass is obviously expensive, and this hybrid option could easily save you money over time. Throw in quicker defrost times and improved vision, and it sure seems like a no-brainer. Better yet, replacing your F-150 windshield with Hyperformance glass couldn’t be easier. First, head to their web site and order one. Your new windshield will be shipped to an installer in your area. Set your appointment with them, and you’re all set. Then, enjoy all the benefits this exciting new technology has to offer!
Photos: Hyperformance Glass Products
Join the F-150 Online forums now!
