California Air Resources Board Adopts New Auto Glass Regulations
June 26, 2009

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has adopted a regulation that will require new cars sold in California, starting in 2012, to have windows that reflect or absorb heat-producing rays from the sun.

Under the terms of the regulation, over a three-year period starting in 2012, windows in new cars sold in California must prevent 45 percent of the sun's total heat-producing energy from entering the car, with the windshield rejecting at least 50 percent of the sun's energy. In 2016 car manufacturers will be required to install windows in new cars sold in California that prevent at least 60 percent of the sun's heat-producing rays from entering the cars interior, or propose alternative technologies to achieve an equivalent result.

The regulation is designed to help keep cars cooler, increase their fuel efficiency and reduce global warming pollution, according to CARB.

"This is a common-sense and cost-effective measure that will help cool the cars we drive and fight global warming," said CARB Chairperson Mary D. Nichols. "It represents the kind of innovative thinking we need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from our vehicles and steer our economy toward a low-carbon future."

The initiative is part of the state's efforts under its climate change legislation, AB 32, enacted in 2006, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles.

According to CARB spokesperson Stanley Young, the regulations also apply to replacement glass. He advised the CARB staff also is working to develop a labeling system so that glass parts that meet the regulations can be identified accordingly.

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