Tag Archives: windshields

Apple Files Patent for Window Defect Sensing, Image Processing

Apple has submitted a patent encompassing systems and techniques for sensing defects associated with windows and windshields, and for performing image processing based on the sensed defects. The system may even spot-clean windshields, and provide repair and replacement recommendations. Apple … Continue reading

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NHTSA Says 758 Drivers Complained of Phantom Braking

The Wall Street Journal discovered that the safety regulator would also release information on crashes involving driving assistance technologies. NHTSA said it wanted to offer more transparency on crashes involving new ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems). Not by chance, two of the most famous ones … Continue reading

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The wait for Auto Glass Week™ is almost over!

The wait for Auto Glass Week™ is almost over! Get a sneak peek at what’s hot and happening. WATCH NOW

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Ford Patents New Feature for Vehicle Windows

Ford filed a new patent for a switchable glass system that takes electro-chromatic glass to the next level. Click here to read more.  

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Research Finds Autonomous Vehicles are Six Times Safer if Trained Using One-in-a-Million Accident Cases

Other significant findings include evidence that AVs are twice as likely to be accurate in their detection of a collision risk without compromising performance on detecting other more frequent types of accident and can achieve a 20 times improvement on … Continue reading

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Safelite® Group Acquires Frontier Glass

Safelite Group, owner of Safelite AutoGlass, acquired the assets of Frontier Glass in Buffalo, N.Y. The deal was completed on May 27. “We’re pleased to welcome Frontier Glass associates to the Safelite family,” says Safelite Group president and CEO Renee … Continue reading

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NSG Group Increases Stake with SYP Automotive in China

NSG Group plans to increase its stake with auto glass in China. NSG says it will incorporate SYP Kangqiao Autoglass Co., Ltd., an auto glass manufacturer, into its auto glass business. “This integration into SYP Automotive will strengthen our ability … Continue reading

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Autonomous Vehicles: Predictions v. Truth

The cause of most accidents is human error; distracted driving, speeding, drunk driving and reckless driving are the top four causes of accidents. Enter autonomous vehicles — vehicles capable of maneuvering through the streets without any input from a human … Continue reading

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Average Age of Vehicles in the U.S. Increases to 12.2 Years

Several factors contributed to the average age of light vehicles in operation in the US rising to 12.2 years this year, increasing by nearly two months over the prior year, according to new research from S&P Global Mobility. Click here … Continue reading

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Church Hill Neighbors Wake Up to 20 Cars Vandalized, Windows Smashed

In a Nest Camera video from a neighbor’s home, a person can be seen smashing the windows. It appears they were punching each window. The vandalism was in Church Hill, Va., near downtown Richmond. Click here to read more.  

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Auto Glass Giant Saint-Gobain Cuts Costs & Lead Time with BCN3D Printers

The logic behind digitizing the supply chain becomes clearer, moreover, when viewed against the larger backdrop of a general push towards lower carbon emissions, as well as the reduction in workforce seen in just about every industry since the pandemic … Continue reading

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This Card-Shaped Emergency Tool Easily Breaks Car Windows

The OWL Escape Card is a portable credit card-sized escape tool designed to simplify car window breaking in emergency situations. Its simple and compact design allows it to fit in wallets, bags, glove boxes, or visors. Click here to read more. … Continue reading

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AAA Research Shows the Pros and Cons of ADAS

Drivers may just want to hum an old rock song as a AAA study of car drivers with ADAS says they still need to “keep their eyes on the road and their hands upon the wheel.” The study focuses on … Continue reading

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A Day in the Life: Easy Fix

Mike Williams manages three franchise locations in B.C., in Vancouver, Aldergrove, and South Surrey. He has found that working in glass is a community-minded, people-first profession, one that has turned out to be—clearly—the right fit. Click here to read more. … Continue reading

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NOVUS Glass Celebrates Kelowna Location

Kelowna in western Canada is the latest location for NOVUS Glass, and joins Fix Network’s global portfolio of locally owned and operated aftermarket franchise centers. Kelowna’s operations manager Scott Maciag has worked in glass repair and replacement for 12 years, … Continue reading

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Automotive Glass Presents Unique Challenges for Manufacturing and Recycling

Tailoring glass to affordably provide all these functionalities requires striking the right balance among glass properties. To achieve this custom combination of properties, glass scientists and engineers fine-tune the material’s composition and further tailor its properties through tempering, chemical strengthening, … Continue reading

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Uniban Opens UniglassPlus/Ziebart Calgary in Alberta

UniglassPlus/Ziebart Calgary, part of the Uniban family, is open in Alberta providing automotive glass repair and replacement services. Glen Van Camp and his son Cayden Van Camp own the new location. Glen has 15 years of auto glass experience, Cayden … Continue reading

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IndyCar Drivers Raise Visibility Concerns After Aeroscreen’s ‘First Real Test’ in Wet Race

Former IndyCar driver and four-time ChampCar champion Sebastien Bourdais shared his views on Twitter after the race, explaining his view that the actual screen should be removed for road and street circuits. Click here to read more.  

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Auto Body and Glass Repair Shops Busy with Storm Damage in South Dakota

Glass companies are also incredibly busy as the extreme wind shattered glass in hundreds of vehicles caught out in the storm. Packages filled with replacement pieces have been arriving since the storm hit on Thursday but it could still be … Continue reading

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One Taken to Hospital, Windshields Shatters After Malfunction at Sandy Car Wash

The occupants of the third car were injured by the falling glass, with one person being transported to the hospital with moderate injuries. The other occupants in the vehicle suffered minor injuries. Click here to read more.  

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Fast Growing Retailers: Revenue on the Rise

The secrets to success are different for each business. But, one thing is certain for five auto glass retailers: revenues continue to grow lightning fast as they put the COVID-19 pandemic in their rearview mirrors. AGRR takes an in-depth look … Continue reading

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Caliber Celebrates 25 Years By Gifting 46 Vehicles

The Caliber family, including Caliber Collision, Caliber Auto Care and Caliber Auto Glass, celebrates 25 years in the industry by giving back to the communities it serves. In 2022, Caliber will gift 46 vehicles to individuals in need of reliable … Continue reading

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AAA Research Proves Need for ADAS Education

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety’s most recent technical report reveals that the understanding of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) changes for drivers in the first six months of vehicle ownership. In ‘An Examination of How Longer-Term Exposure and User … Continue reading

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Belron UK Reduces Carbon Emissions by More Than 40%

In an ongoing commitment to responsible business practices, Belron UK Limited, parent company of Autoglass®, has reduced carbon emissions by 43% in the last four years. Released in Belron UK’s Responsible Business Insights Report, new figures show 13,219 tons of … Continue reading

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At the Top: Auto Glass Retailers in 2022

Today, glassBYTEs.com takes a look at top auto glass retailers this year compared to AGRR’s 2020 list. Who remains on top? Were there any major changes? In the number one spot this year and in 2022, Belron and Safelite remain … Continue reading

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Most Drivers Like New Advanced Safety Technology, CR Survey Says

Drivers like car safety technology best when it helps them see what they sometimes can’t, such as checking blind spots or obstacles hidden behind their vehicle. Click here to read more.  

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Study Reveals Assisted Driving Systems Struggle with Collision Tests

The AAA, a U.S. consumer and travel services organization, said the tests illustrate how current assisted driving and automated braking systems fall short of true autonomous driving, and require drivers to stay in control of vehicles. Click here to read … Continue reading

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Labor Shortage and Supply Chain Affect Boyd Group Inc. First Quarter 2022

In addition to adding 11 new locations in the first quarter of 2022, Boyd Group Services Inc. reported sales increased 32% compared to the first quarter of 2021. Boyd Group experienced $556.8 million in the first quarter of this year. … Continue reading

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Synergies Raises $12M to Give Factory Managers an AI Analytics Assistant

The startup declined to disclose its valuation but said it’s serving nearly 100 customers, 80% of which are in Greater China, including mid-sized factories with thousands of workers run by Foxconn and Fuyao, one of the world’s largest auto glass … Continue reading

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Windshield Repair Made Easier with 3D Printing

The precision 3D printed component, now known as the Drill Stop Collet, is used to hold the tiny glass drill used in windshield repair, and it has made this critical drilling process quick, reliable, and automatic. In the past, learning … Continue reading

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Driven Brands Exec Talks Expansion Plans

Driven Brands shot to the number three spot in AGRR magazine’s 2022 list of Top Auto Glass Retailers in the category of companies with $100-$200 million in revenue. In April 2022, the company announced it was acquiring All Star Glass, … Continue reading

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Auto Windscreens Commits to Net-Zero Standard

Auto Windscreens joined the Business Ambition for 1.5°C campaign, the world’s largest and fastest growing group of companies aligning to help halve global emissions by 2030. According to a company statement, Auto Windscreens is committed to the Science Based Targets … Continue reading

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Moraine Pursues Economic Development Growth Around Fuyao

Fuyao Glass America, Moraine’s largest employer, is now up to more than 1,600 workers and there is need for 300 to 400 more. There’s plenty of square footage available for economic development in the former General Motors plant. Click here … Continue reading

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Twenty-seven Arrested after 19 Cops Injured, Police Vehicles Vandalized in Riot

The Viraj factory management obtained a Palghar court order against the strike and restrained the workers from entering the factory premises in Boisar, but workers entered and destroyed police vehicles, including smashing windshields. Click here to read more.  

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AGE Group Signs Global Agreement

Automotive Glass Europe’s first official member in Asia is Autoglass Middle East LLC in the United Arab Emirates. Autoglass Middle East was established in 2009 as the first automotive glass repair and replacement company in the UAE. “It is a … Continue reading

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AGSC/NWRD ROLAGS 2 Standards Committee to Meet in June

The AGSC/NWRD ROLAGS 2 Standards Committee (windshield repair) will meet on Tuesday, June 14, 2022 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. ET. The meeting will be held electronically by Zoom. The agenda, related documents and instructions for joining the Zoom … Continue reading

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Industry Reaction Mixed on Ford Certified Glass Network

After Ford’s announcement last week of its Certified Glass Network, technicians and auto glass shop owners are assessing the pros and cons of the program. Ford Certified Glass Network provides certification with certain requirements to auto glass technicians to install … Continue reading

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Report Further Proves Importance of Calibration, Pre- and Post-Scans

Humans do not have crystal balls to foresee the future, but more and more auto glass industry members see a future of more, not less, auto technology. “ADAS technology will over time lead to fewer auto accidents and vehicles needing … Continue reading

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The Dangers of Driving with a Damaged Windshield

When you have a damaged windshield, it impacts your driving in several ways. At first glance, it might seem like a minor issue — but the reality is that driving with a damaged windshield is a precarious proposition. Click here … Continue reading

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Ford Launches “Certified Glass Network”

Ford is introducing its own “Ford Certified Glass Network” (FCGN) for auto glass businesses that work on Ford vehicles. The automaker’s website says the program will help prepare technicians “to meet the highest quality standards for every Ford and Lincoln … Continue reading

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Join the Winner’s Circle with Genuine Auto Glass Before Kentucky-Derby Themed Fundraiser

Through the generous backing of community members, donors, and sponsors like this year’s title sponsor, Genuine Auto Glass, the CARES Fund enables ASAPC to bear the cost of services so that families from all over the Puget Sound Region can … Continue reading

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Auto Glass Growth Included in Driven Brands Holdings Inc.’s First Quarter Results for 2022

The key word for Driven Brands Holdings Inc. (DBHI) in 2022 is growth. And auto glass services are part of that growth. In a conference call discussing quarterly results last Wednesday, president and CEO Jonathan Fitzpatrick said 2022’s growth will … Continue reading

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Shops Pushing Back as Safelite Pushes for Auto Glass Laws

Safelite’s efforts led to passage of new laws in Utah and Arizona. As its efforts moved east, however, Safelite butted heads with another group that is offering its own vision about how to safely make repairs: The Auto Glass Safety … Continue reading

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Driven Brands Acquires All Star Glass

Driven Brands Holdings Inc. has acquired All Star Glass, A chain of 30 auto glass shops located primarily in California, Arizona, Texas and Nevada. “We pride ourselves on offering simple, convenient solutions to the consumer and our glass services are … Continue reading

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Nissan Develops Collision Avoidance ADAS

Nissan is testing a vehicle to demonstrate how the technology can automatically perform collision-avoidance maneuvers. The perception technology fuses information from lidar, radar and cameras to detect the shape and distance of objects as well as the structure of the … Continue reading

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Saint-Gobain Posts Record Sales in Quarter, Flags Rising Costs

The company’s sales of 12 billion euros ($12.60 billion) for the three months through March, up 16.4% on a like-for-like basis from a year earlier, were driven by renovation in Europe and construction in the Americas and Asia. Click here … Continue reading

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French Company Continues to Supply Necessary Products

Eloi Guenet, president of Saint-Gobain Automotive Glass China, said that they have been deploying and implementing pandemic prevention and control measures according to official requirements, and have been dynamically adjusting their operation plans. Click here to read more.  

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Audi and Partners Piloting Project to Turn Faulty Car Glass into New Windowpanes for the Audie Q4 e-tron

The glass recycling pilot project starts with selected dealerships in the Volkswagen Group’s retail network. Customers whose cars have a damaged window set up appointments there. Click here to read more.  

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Auto Glass Week™ Introduces Career Day

Building and supporting the next generation of technicians are vital to the auto glass repair and replacement industry. Auto Glass Week 2022, Sept. 14-16 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, will address this with Career Day, … Continue reading

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Churchill Backs One Equity’s PGW Acquisition

The financing of PGW marks the fourth transaction which Churchill’s senior lending team has completed in support of One Equity Partners. Click here to read more.  

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Supply Chain and Materials Costs: Challenges Persist for Auto Glass Industry, Part 1

Call it what you will. Growing pains. Challenges. Opportunities for innovation. The auto glass industry is going through a difficult time of changes. “I think number one, that’s pretty obvious: the supply chain challenges,” says Ryan Mandell, director of performance … Continue reading

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Koch Industries Subsidiary Shutting Down Plants in Russia

Koch Industries is asking employees of one of its subsidiaries, Guardian Glass, to shut down two plants in Russia. Koch and Guardian say they are working on an exit strategy to ensure the safety of plant employees. Click here to … Continue reading

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Automotive Glass Presents Unique Challenges for Manufacturing and Recycling

Like glass used for making bottles, jars, and ordinary building windows, the glass found in cars, trucks, and buses is known as soda-lime glass. It’s the most common type and accounts for roughly 90% of all manufactured glass. Click here … Continue reading

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Driving’s Most Innovative Tech Hides in Plain Sight

More than just keeping out dust and rain, a windshield is a critical element of your vehicle’s advanced safety system. In addition to super-tough auto glass that creates a barrier between you and the road, the windshield is also where … Continue reading

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First Compact SUV with ADAS is Coming Soon

Hyundai will soon be bringing new features for its to-be-updated compact SUV. Hyundai Venue facelift might be the first compact SUV to get the ADAS system. Click here to read more.  

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Insurer Won’t Pay for a New Windshield? State Law Requires They Offer That Option

In most states, comprehensive insurance covers replacement after you pay your deductible. Click here to read more.  

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Gas Up: Fuel Prices Cause Pain at the Pump

A global pandemic. A labor shortage. Supply chain challenges and exorbitant gas prices. The struggle is real in the auto glass industry. At the end of March, Autospecs Glass in Dallas and Houston found it reached its fleet credit limit … Continue reading

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Students Get Look at Auto Glass and Business at Fuyao Glass Factory

The factory was the subject of the Oscar-winning documentary film “American Factory,” released in 2019. The documentary covered the opening of the factory following the closure of a General Motors assembly plant in Moraine, Ohio. Click here to read more. … Continue reading

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Auto Glass Maker Fires Furnace on 100% Biofuels

Pilkington UK has become the world’s first flat glass manufacturer to fire its furnace on 100% biofuel, as part of an industry trial to find sustainable alternatives to natural gas. A sustainable biofuel made from organic waste materials powered the … Continue reading

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Upcoming SUVs in India Will be Designed with ADAS

The biggest talking point out of all is ADAS. Currently, only the Mahindra XUV700 and the MG Astor get ADAS capabilities in the affordable segment. Most car companies have taken note of this and are working on bringing this feature … Continue reading

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All Upcoming Honda Cars to Get ADAS Features in India

At the unveiling of the Honda City hybrid, Honda Cars India announced that all new models the brand launches in India will come with the Honda Sensing suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. Click here to read more.  

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Ford Bronco Windshield Banners Now Available in Three Colors

These new windshield banners are all essentially identical, yet come in three different color combinations to suit many tastes. Click here to read more.  

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Mygrant Demonstrates ADAS at Open House

Three weeks before the United States went into lockdown for the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, Mygrant Glass held an open house in Albuquerque, N.M. Last Saturday, the company opened its doors in Spokane once again. “We do these because … Continue reading

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Kyle Larson Has Very Strong Comments About Bristol Dirt Race

The reigning NASCAR Cup Series champion has some very strong words for the upcoming dirt race at Bristol Motor Speedway. Kyle Larson has said that “it’s kind of lame” that NASCAR is not removing the windshields. Click here to read more.

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Chinese-owned South Carolina Auto Glass Maker Expands in Upstate, Adds 121 Jobs

Fuyao Glass America Inc. announced in January 2019 that it would build a 182,000 square-foot processing center with light production capabilities, investing $16.1 million and creating 70 jobs. Tuesday’s announcement said the company will add assembly operations to install parts … Continue reading

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AGSC Offers AGRSS Standard Draft for Review and Comment

The Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC) is releasing a review draft of its updated Automotive Glass Replacement Safety Standard ™ (AGRSS) before it goes to the American National Standards Institute Inc. (ANSI) for final approval. The standard addresses six areas … Continue reading

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Massachusetts Considers Auto Glass Safety Bill

The Massachusetts legislature Joint Committee on Transportation held a hearing on March 9 on legislation that would create state auto glass replacement safety standards. The bill, H. 4445, introduced by Representatives Josh Cutler and Kathleen LaNatra, defines “Aftermarket safety glass … Continue reading

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Qualcomm Completes Arriver Acquisition to Bulk Up Software Prowess in ADAS

But the acquisition of Veoneer’s Arriver software division positions Qualcomm to compete head-to-head against industry leader Mobileye in the camera-based autonomous driving and vehicle safety technologies market. Click here to read more.

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Register Today and Reap the Rewards at Auto Glass Week™ 2022

Attendees, competitors, and sponsors— register today for Auto Glass Week™ 2022 (AGW). Auto Glass Week 2022 is designed specifically for your personal and business growth, filled with new prizes, hot networking opportunities, and educational development. Register now and benefit from … Continue reading

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NHTSA Launches ADAS Education Campaign

The agency says its research has found many drivers don’t know how even some of the most basic ADAS features work. To help combat that, the NHTSA has overhauled its webpage on ADAS, including a more user-friendly interface. Click here … Continue reading

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Tire Business to Host Livestream on ADAS Technology

Tire BusinessEditor Don Detore and longtime automotive service specialist and former tire dealer Pam Oakes will present a free livestream on the topic. Click here to read more.  

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DuPont Clarifies Supply Chain Challenges

Auto glass adhesive suppliers are not immune to supply chain challenges. “Due to challenging domestic and global market conditions in 2021, supplies of raw materials have been constrained over the past several months causing unprecedented supply chain disruptions that impacted … Continue reading

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Car Break-ins Expected to Increase as Weather Gets Nicer

If you lock your car doors, roll up your windows and close your sunroof, Berkson says your car will be a less desirable target. Also, don’t leave your valuables in your car or in plain sight. Click here to read … Continue reading

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Equalizer® Opens New Location

Equalizer Industries Inc. has announced the opening of a new location– in Almelo Netherlands. It will offer support, sales and demonstrations of product line to European customers. The company “is thrilled to see it come to fruition in the Netherlands,” … Continue reading

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Auto Windscreens Sponsors BTCC Driver Rick Parfitt Jr.

Rick Parfitt Jr.’s second season in the British Touring Car Championship will be sponsored by Auto Windscreens. The company’s logo will appear above the windscreen and wing mirrors of Parfitt’s Infiniti Q50 under Upton Steel with Team HARD Racing, a … Continue reading

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Kia Motors America Issues Voluntary Recall for Windshields

Kia Motors America has notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that it is recalling 30,362 vehicles for inadequate bonding of windshields. Kia notified the NHTSA that the windshields of affected 2014-2016 Kia Cadenza vehicles can detach from the … Continue reading

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Physicists Explain the Mesmerizing Movements of Raindrops on Car Windshields

Raindrops on a moving car’s angled windshield simultaneously experience forces from gravity and from the wind that speeds over the car. The direction that a raindrop moves depends on its size. Click here to read more.  

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Clear View Auto Glass and Tint Becomes AGSCTM Member Company

Clear View Auto Glass and Tint of Russellville has joined the list of safety-conscious auto glass companies by becoming a registered member of the Auto Glass Safety Council. Click here to read more.  

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New NOVUS Glass Shop Opens in British Columbia

NOVUS Glass North Shore has opened for business in North Shore, British Columbia. It will service North and West Vancouver and the North Shore areas of British Columbia. The new franchise is owned by Armin Ojani and Neil Steenkamp. “We pride … Continue reading

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Tesla Laser Technology Puts an End to Traditional Windshield Wipers

With all that the automobile has advanced in just a century and a half, there are elements that have undergone significant changes. From, for example, the propellants themselves, the energy systems, the starter, the batteries, or the technology itself of … Continue reading

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How to Choose the Best Exterior Windshield Cover

If you are one of the many vehicle owners not presently using a car windshield cover, it may be time to consider it. A car windshield cover is quickly becoming one of the most-used vehicle protection accessories, as windshield replacement … Continue reading

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The Cost of Calibration, Part 5: South Gulf

GlassBYTEs.com’s series discussing the cost of calibration in different U.S. regions concludes this week with the South Gulf area, which includes Texas, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky and Arkansas. Thirty year-old Venable Glass Services operates locations in Brandon and … Continue reading

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FMCSA Expands Windshield Area for Vehicle Safety Technology

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration published a final rule in the Federal Register on Monday, March 7, that will streamline the process. The rule, which will take effect May 6, was prompted by a petition from Daimler Trucks North America. … Continue reading

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The Cost of Calibration, Part 4: North Central

GlassBYTEs.com’s series discussing the cost of calibration in different U.S. regions continues this week with the North Central area. John and Beth Earl own Earl’s Auto Glass in Cozad, Neb. “I would agree with that,” Beth Earl says of the … Continue reading

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On the Up and Up: Auto Glass Shops Struggle with Rising Costs

As the costs of auto glass materials rise steadily each month, how are auto glass shops making up for the difference in their reduced profit levels? The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ latest Producer Price Index data for January 2022 revealed … Continue reading

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‘He was Real Pushy:’ ‘Free’ Windshield Offers Can Trigger Lawsuits and Higher Premiums

Action 9 exposes some “free” car windshield offers that can trigger lawsuits and higher car insurance premiums. Pat Carosone of Orlando said he felt like a winner when he answered a random phone call. Click here to read more.  

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Trucking Company Investigating Claims Flying Coal Damaging Windshields in Northern Valley

Drivers in North Dakota’s northern valley are calling it a matter of life and death. Debris flying off trucks. A lot of the complaints have come from drivers who are traveling along Highway 81 between Grafton and Manvel. Click here … Continue reading

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The Windshield Phenomenon: Why You See Fewer Bugs Splattering Cars Today

If you’ve been a driver for a few decades, you may have noticed that the remains of unlucky flies, moths, and beetles don’t end up on windshields as often as they once did. You may even be grateful that your … Continue reading

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State Police Respond to Two Incidents of Ice Shattering Drivers’ Windshields

Indiana State Police is reminding drivers to remove ice and snow from their vehicles after reports of two incidents Sunday. Sgt. Stephen Wheeles shared a photo on his Facebook page and said a large sheet of ice came off a vehicle … Continue reading

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NOVUS Remains on Franchise 500 list for 2021

NOVUS Glass has made the Franchise 500 list for 2021. At number 101, up from number 140 in 2020, the company has 2,013 franchises worldwide. Founded in 1972, NOVUS was founded after Dr. Frank Werner replaced three windshields with small … Continue reading

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Chrysler Recalls More Than 170,000 Ram Pickups for Windshield Wiper Defect

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that all 2019-2020 Ram 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 and 5500 are affected by a defect in the windshield wipers. As of Jan. 12, Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is not aware of … Continue reading

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Torrey Pines Driving Range is Dangerous for Car Windshields and Now PGA Tour Players

There was a buzz on social media earlier this week because the windshields of two cars in the caddie parking area adjacent to the range were smashed by wayward shots. That’s a problem, but that’s not as concerning as what … Continue reading

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Nonprofit Raising Money to Install Bullet-Resistant Glass on Brazos County Patrol Vehicles

A local nonprofit is raising money to get bullet-resistant glass installed on the patrol vehicles of each law enforcement agency in Brazos County. Operation Safe Shield and board member Marilyn Moore say communities need to help protect law enforcement officers who … Continue reading

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How Much Does it Cost to Tint Car Windows?

Tinted windows aren’t just for aesthetics. They serve several functions that include blocking dangerous UV rays to protect passengers and reduce wear on the car’s interior materials, adding increased privacy, and keeping a car cool. What’s more is that the … Continue reading

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Windshields Could Fall Out of These Three Hyundai Models

If you are currently in possession of a 2020 or 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe, 2021 Sonata or 2021 Elantra, a recall has been issued for a defect about the windscreen. Click here to read more.    

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Hyundai Recalls Certain Sante Fe, Sonata and Elantra Models for Improperly Bonded Windshields

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration issued a recall in late December for certain 2020-2021 Hyundai Sante Fe, 2021 Sonata and Elantra vehicles for improperly bonded windshields. During manufacturing, the windshields may not have been bonded properly because of faulty … Continue reading

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How Augmented Reality Transforms the Car Windshield into a Virtual Screen

What if all the information you need while driving was no longer displayed on a dashboard, but projected directly onto your windshield? This kind of augmented reality display already exists for motorcyclists. Now French startup EyeLights wants to adapt its … Continue reading

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Should You Leave Your Wiper Blades Up Before a Winter Storm?

We’ve all lived it— a snowstorm is in the forecast, and you’re driving home the evening it’s supposed to hit. Parked cars in lots, driveways, and on streets have their windshield wipers left up in the vertical position. Click here … Continue reading

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UniglassPlus Carbonear Opens in Newfoundland and Labrador

Uniban celebrates the opening of UniglassPlus Carbonear at 64 Columbus Drive, Carbonear Newfoundland and Labrador, A1Y 1A6. Jordan Garland, owner of UniglassPlus Carbonear, started in the automotive industry with detailing and window tinting. He decided to open this facility after … Continue reading

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Clear Off Your Car Windows or Get a Ticket

In the winter, some drivers may be in such a rush to get to their destinations that they don’t prepare their vehicles. Turns out, if you don’t clean the snow and ice properly off of your windshield, you could get … Continue reading

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Driven Brands Acquires Auto Glass Now for $170 Million

Driven Brands Holdings Inc., headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., acquired Auto Glass Now’s more than 75 company-operated locations in the U.S. on Dec. 30. Auto Glass Now joins Driven Brands with more than 20 years of auto glass repair, replacement and … Continue reading

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Xinyi to Build Two Factories to Produce Automotive Glass in Melaka

Construction of the two factories is expected to create about 800 job opportunities, especially for locals in Melaka and, to date, the company had employed more than 1,700 workers with 55% of them being locals in the state. Click here … Continue reading

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Vandals Smash Windshields of Several Parked Cars Along Three Rogers Park Blocks

Several vehicles were vandalized early Tuesday morning along two separate blocks in the city’s Rogers Park neighborhood, according to Chicago police. In the first incident, a male suspect was seen breaking the windshields of at least five parked cars around … Continue reading

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Technology Has Made Our Cars Safer, But a Cracked Windshield is the End of the World

There were times when the windshield lived up to its name, being nothing more than a piece of glass with the sole purpose of protecting against the wind. Click here to read more.  

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Not in Kansas Anymore: Auto Glass Technician Shares Tornado Experience

Koty Crook lives and works in Hopkins County, ground zero for the tornado that swept through Kentucky on December 10. “It was a normal day,” Crook, 27, says of that Friday, which was also payday. Crook is a technician for … Continue reading

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Mobileye Celebrates 100 Million EyeQ Chips Shipped

Initially, ADAS technologies that make cars safer to drive were found only in high-priced luxury sedans and SUVs. But thanks in many ways to Mobileye, working to fulfill its founding mission to use cameras to bring affordable computer vision to … Continue reading

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Local Auto Glass Companies Getting 50 Plus Calls a Week Amid Increase of Smash and Grab

While it’s not unusual this time of year for cars to be burglarized, auto glass companies say this year it’s reaching an all-time high. The phones at car repair shops have been ringing like crazy. Click here to read more. … Continue reading

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Through the Glass: Competition Turns into Friendship

Aaron Bradford and James Chapman met at Auto Glass Week 2021 in June as competitors in the Auto Glass Technician Olympics. Chapman, from Zanesville, Ohio, won third place, while Bradford placed fourth. “He beat me by one point,” Bradford says. … Continue reading

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Fire at Frontier Auto Glass in New York Friday Night

A fire broke out at the Frontier Auto Glass on the corner of Niagara Falls Boulevard and Green Acres Road in the Town of Tonawanda Friday night. Click here to read more.  

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‘It’s Like Russian Roulette:’ Drivers Say Gravel on SR 417 is Cracking Their Windshields

Central Florida drivers are getting stuck between a rock and a hard place, namely, State Road 417 around Exit 24. “It’s like Russian roulette going on that ramp. Are we going to get hit today? Is it going to be … Continue reading

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ADAPT Panel: ADAS Work to Become Necessity for Shops

Over the last several years, the use of and references to ADAS—advanced driver assistance systems—has grown at an exponential rate. More and more, vehicles are equipped with sensors, cameras and other tools to help drivers stay safe on the roads, and … Continue reading

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Police Investigate Vandalized Cars in St. Johnsbury

Police are investigating after someone damaged cars in St. Johnsbury on Monday. Police say between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m., they received reports of two cars with smashed windshields from a large rock. Click here to read more.  

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New Safelite President Assumes Role Today

Renee Cacchillo assumes the duties of president and CEO of Safelite today. She joined Safelite in 2011 after serving as vice president of operations services with Bob Evans Inc. Prior to Bob Evans; she spent eight years with Limited Brands … Continue reading

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Highway Closed for an Hour After Windshields Damaged

VIDEO: Highway 17 was closed for over an hour between Summit Road and Sugarloaf Road due to police activity Saturday afternoon. Da Lin reports from Scotts Valley. Click here to view video.  

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Tesla’s Laser Windshield Wipers Have Been Granted by U.S. Patent Office

Tesla’s insane laser windshield wiper patent has been officially granted by the United States Patent Office this week. Filed in May 2019, the U.S. Patent Office granted the application, giving Tesla an exclusive right for the invention. Click here to … Continue reading

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Settlement Reached in Subaru Class Action Windshield Lawsuit

A settlement has been reached in the class action lawsuit against car manufacturer Subaru that alleged that the windshields of certain vehicles were prone to cracking. Under the terms of the settlement agreement, Subaru will extend the warranty of the … Continue reading

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Sunshine State’s New Law Goes into Effect July 1st

Florida’s Gov. Ron DeSantis recently signed an assignment of benefits (AOB) reform bill into law. The legislation, also referred to as H7065, originally included auto glass but after going through several revisions both the Senate and the House excluded the … Continue reading

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25% Tariffs Set to Impact Auto Glass

The Trump administration increased tariffs from 10% to 25% on $200 billion worth of Chinese products Friday, including auto glass and related materials. Days before the announcement, the administration made tweets suggesting that increases would occur prior to scheduled negotiations … Continue reading

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Belron Canada Releases Results of Calibration Testing

Belron Canada has released the results of a study it commissioned from a Canadian testing firm to determine the influence of different windshields with calibration cameras on how certain ADAS systems perform. The research, performed by PMG Testing of Quebec, … Continue reading

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HLDI Research Shows Differences Between ADAS Results Based On the Auto Glass Used

With Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) rising in consumer popularity, several tests have been performed to prove its value over the years. The Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI), has been conducting its own studies and has recently published its results. … Continue reading

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Prius Owners Bring Lawsuit against Toyota – Claiming Defective Windshields

Several Toyota Prius owners filed a lawsuit against the car company claiming to have defective windshields. According to the vehicle owners’ complaint, Prius windshields from 2016 and 2017 randomly crack and break without being in hazardous conditions. According to the … Continue reading

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Auto Glass Shops Seek Class Certification Against Geico

VIP Auto Glass Inc. (VIP) and Class members are seeking class certification in a Florida lawsuit against Geico General Insurance Company for allegedly violating the state’s law by underpaying auto glass shops not affiliated with Safelite Retail facilities or participants … Continue reading

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Nissan Recommends OEM Glass, Says Some Mirrors Cannot Be Reused

Nissan says OEM glass should be used for windshield replacements and points to the relationship between glass and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) as a reason. Company officials also say some mirrors cannot be reused and address ADAS recalibration, among other topics, in a bevy of position statements released this month. Continue reading

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Report Identifies Top Challenges for Auto Parts Exports

The auto parts industry, which includes windshields, has nearly doubled over the last five years and “growth in the sector is expected to accelerate globally,” according to a Top Markets Report released by the International Trade Administration. But certain challenges exist that could impede this growth. The report analyzes export trends for both original equipment and aftermarket parts, identifying which countries show the most growth potential. Continue reading

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Baseball-Sized Hail Hits West Texas

Residents of Crane, Texas, are used to hearing about booms—the city is located in the oil fields of west Texas. But about midday on May 7, they heard literal booms as lime-to-baseball-sized hail slammed into their windshields. “This is probably … Continue reading

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Auto Glass Safety Council E-Newsletter Now Available

The Auto Glass Safety Council has published its latest e-newsletter. Continue reading

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Ford Recalls Certain 2015 Lincoln MKC Vehicles for Possible Windshield Air Bubbles

Ford and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) are recalling certain model year 2015 Lincoln MKC vehicles manufactured August 20, 2013 to June 6, 2014, which could have visible air bubbles in the windshield. These vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 205, “Glazing Materials,” according to Ford. Continue reading

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Guardian Sells Two Automotive Glass Subsidiaries; Retains Custom Glass Solutions

The deal by Guardian Industries Corp. to sell Guardian Automotive Products (GAPI) and Guardian Automotive –E S.A. (GA ESA) to Central Glass Co. Ltd., parent company of Carlex Glass Co., is just the latest move by the company to reduce its automotive glass footprint. Guardian retains a foothold in the marketplace with Custom Glass Solutions and the RV automotive glass claims administration business. Continue reading

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Safelite Glass Corp. Names Mike Bradsher Director of Manufacturing Operations

Safelite Glass Corp. has promoted Mike Bradsher to director of manufacturing operations for its Enfield, N.C.-based windshield plant, which employs 210 people. In this role, he will lead production, quality, product development, engineering and accounting, according to officials. Continue reading

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Belron’s First-Quarter Sales Up 1 Percent

D’Ieteren, parent company to Belron and Safelite, reported that first quarter automotive glass repair and replacement sales were one percent higher over the same period of 2013 largely due to a 3.1 percent organic increase and 2.2 percent growth from acquisitions. Sales were negatively impacted by “unexpected unfavorable weather conditions in Northern Europe, which resulted in temporary overcapacity in those geographies,” officials wrote in the company’s report. Continue reading

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Chris Thornton New Managing Director at Auto Windscreens

United Kingdom-based Auto Windscreens’ management team has announced Chris Thornton as their new manager director. Continue reading

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Florida Repair Shops File Antitrust Lawsuit Against State Farm, Other Insurers

A group of Florida collision repair shops have banded together to file an antitrust lawsuit against State Farm and dozens of other insurers, alleging the insurers use their direct repair programs to “illegally control and depress” repair rates and if the shops don’t comply, customers are steered away. This case has potential implications for the AGRR industry, as independent automotive glass repair shops allege similar issues with third-party administrators (TPAs), which handle automotive glass claims for insurers. Continue reading

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Safelite AutoGlass Recycled More Than 1 Million Windshields in 2013

Safelite AutoGlass announced it has recycled more than 1 million windshields in 2013. Continue reading

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Government is Not Doing Enough, According to glassBYTEs.com™ Readers

In response to President Obama’s State of the Union Address this week, the majority of automotive glass technicians and company owners say the President needs to do more to strengthen the economy, according to a glassBYTEs.com™ poll.
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Third Shift Cut at Safelite Glass Corp.’s N.C. Manufacturing Plant

Safelite Glass Corp. has shut down third-shift operations at its Enfield, N.C., windshield manufacturing plant, affecting approximately 61 of the company’s 277 employees at the plant. Continue reading

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Automotive Glass Companies Ranked in Annual List

Several automotive glass companies have been ranked on Entrepreneur magazine’s 35th Annual Franchise 500. The top 500 companies were determined based on financial and statistical data from July 2011 through July 2013.
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Safelite AutoGlass Foundation Awards $300,000 to Columbus Area Nonprofits

Safelite AutoGlass Foundation has awarded $300,000 in Impact Grants to 12 separate Columbus, Ohio-area, nonprofit groups. Each received $25,000. Continue reading

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New DOT Number Awarded to Poland-based Company

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) recently awarded a new DOT number to Glaspo, which is based in Wroclaw, Poland. Continue reading

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AGRR Industry Expects Business to Grow as 2014 Unfolds

Almost 70 percent of automotive glass technicians and company owners believe their business will grow in the new year, according to a glassBYTEs.com™ poll. And a big focus for 2014 will be ramping up technology usage.
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Alan Resnick Leaves Glass America

Alan Resnick—who has been with Glass America since 1999, most recently as vice president of sales and operations—left the company at the end of December to pursue new opportunities. Continue reading

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Washington-Based Andrews Auto Glass Owners Charged with Tax Fraud

The Washington Attorney General’s office has charged Andrew and Vita Onufreychuk, owners of Andrews Auto Glass, for alleged theft and fraud, accusing them of “falsifying their business tax returns in order to cheat the state out of at least $13,000 in sales tax,” according to the State Department of Revenue. Continue reading

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AGRR Industry Gives Back This Holiday Season

Though our stomachs are full, Santa has come and presents have been opened, the time for holiday giving continues through the New Year. Many companies in the AGRR industry make the effort to give back whether by supporting the Ronald McDonald House Charities, collecting canned food for food banks, supporting local sports teams and more. Continue reading

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Boyd Group Added to the S&P/TSX Canadian Dividend Aristocrats Index

The S&P Dow Jones Canadian Index Services has added the Boyd Group Income Fund to the S&P/TSX Canadian Dividend Aristocrats Index as part of its annual review. The change is effective after the close of trading on Friday, December 20, 2013. Continue reading

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Several Ford F-150 Owners Report Shattering Backlites to NHTSA

More than 20 F-150 Ford owners of the 2010 model year have complained to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that an alleged glitch in their rear defrosters has caused their backlites to shatter or spiderweb in cracks.
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Staten Island Automotive Glass Shop Owner Faces Drug Charges

Charles Castrovinci, 38, owner of ABC Auto Glass in Charleston on Staten Island, is facing several drug charges after New York Gang Squad detectives searched his business, home and car, according to court papers from New York’s Richmond Criminal Court.
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Guardian Automotive Launches Custom Glass Solutions

Guardian Automotive announced the launch of Custom Glass Solutions today—a division focused on offering glass for the bus, truck, train and off-highway vehicles markets. Officials say this new company “reinforces” their commitment to serving the automotive glass needs of various transportation segments.
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Sika Corp. Names Regional Human Resources Manager

Sika Industry and Automotive USA has named David Brukoff regional human resources manager for the industry target market, North American automotive business unit and R&D center in Madison Heights, Mich. Continue reading

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Report: Nation’s Roads Increasingly Deteriorated

The nation’s major urban roads continue to deteriorate costing the average driver more than more $800 a year in some areas, according to TRIP, a national transportation research group based in Washington, D.C. Driving on roads that are increasingly in disrepair can increase consumer costs by “accelerating vehicle deterioration and depreciation and increasing needed maintenance,” such as AGRR services, the group reports. Continue reading

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ABRA Auto Body & Glass Acquires Two Wisconsin Repair Centers

ABRA Auto Body & Glass has acquired two Affordable Auto Body Carstar repair centers just south of Milwaukee, Wis. ABRA handles AGRR services via its national call center. Continue reading

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Delta Kits Donates $25,000 to Charity

Eugene, Ore.-based Delta Kits announced that for the month of December, the company will be donating 50 percent of all windshield repair and headlight restoration service profits to the Eugene Mission. For the year, the company has donated more than $25,000 to charity.
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Eastman to Increase Automotive-Grade PVB Prices

Eastman Chemical Co. announced a global price increase for automotive grade polyvinyl butyral (PVB) interlayers effective January 1, 2014 or as contracts allow. Continue reading

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Guardian Says Closure of Local Distribution Centers to Have Limited Impact on Production, AGRR Divisions

Guardian Automotive management anticipates the company’s exit from the local distribution business will have minimal impact on the production of glass and the automotive glass retail business. Continue reading

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Caliber Collision Centers Acquired by OMERS Private Equity

Caliber Collision Centers has been acquired by Toronto, Canada-based OMERS Private Equity along with existing management, from ONCAP private equity. The company’s locations offer AGRR services throughout the Southwest. Continue reading

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Glass Doctor Ranked Among Top Global Franchises Opportunities

Glass Doctor, an affiliate company of The Dwyer Group, was ranked No. 281 on the Next 300 list of global franchises determined by world-wide sales by the Franchise Times. Franchise Times also ranked Glass Doctor on its select list of Top Automotive Services.
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Gerber Collision & Glass Acquires Three Arizona Repair Centers

The Boyd Group, parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass, has acquired three new Arizona repair centers located in Gilbert, Scottsdale and Tempe. The locations now operate under the Gerber Collision & Glass trade name and offer AGRR services.
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Auto Glass Week™ 2014 Will be in Baltimore

There has been much speculation surrounding the location of Auto Glass Week 2014 and today, we’re making a big announcement. Baltimore will serve as the location for Auto Glass Week™ 2014. The event will be right across from Camden Yards and the picturesque InnerHarbor. Continue reading

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Auto Glass Week™ 2014 to Be Held October 7-9 in Baltimore

Today Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) announced the 2014 dates and location. The event will be held October 7-9, 2014 at the BaltimoreConvention Center and Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel in Baltimore, Md. Continue reading

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Caliber Collision Centers Acquires Denver Repair Group

Caliber Collision Centers has acquired nine Denver-based Global Collision locations, which offer AGRR services, including mobile work. Continue reading

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AGC to Open Mexico-Based Laminated Glass Facility

AGC announced it is establishing a new laminated automotive glass plant in Mexico, which is scheduled to start operations in early 2016. The new plant will be located in San Luis Potosi, Mexico, and will produce glass for approximately 750,000 vehicles a year.
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Speaker of the House Boehner Visits Springfield HSG Call Center

Speaker of the House John Boehner (Republican) visited with Paul Gross, president and CEO of Insurance Claims Management, parent to HSG, at the HSG Springfield, Ohio, call center this week to recognize the company’s expansion. Continue reading

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Gerber Collision & Glass Adds Two Maryland Repair Centers

The Boyd Group has opened two new repair centers under the Gerber Collision & Glass name in Maryland. One of the new centers is located in Catonsville, situated just west of the Baltimore, while the other is in Ellicott City.
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Ohio Supreme Court Rejects Class Certification in Repair-Based Lawsuit

The Ohio Supreme Court has overturned a lower court’s decision by rejecting the class certification status of a lawsuit that alleges State Farm denied some policyholders full payment on windshield damage claims because instead of paying for replacement of the windshields, it allegedly steered some policyholders toward repair. A lower court upheld the class certification and State Farm appealed the ruling to the Ohio Supreme Court. Continue reading

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SuperGlass Windshield Repair Gains New Franchisee

SuperGlass Windshield Repair has named Jon Lutz as a new franchisee in Summerville, S.C. Continue reading

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Audi Issues Recall Over Possible “Sunroof Shattering”

Audi has issued a recall through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for certain model-year 2013 to 2014 Audi A8 and S8 vehicles due to possible sunroof shattering. The defect was traced back to the production of the glass.
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ABRA Auto Body & Glass Adds New Wisconsin Franchise

ABRA Auto Body & Glass has opened a new franchise at 105 Commerce Drive in New Lisbon, Wis., that offers AGRR services. Continue reading

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National Windscreens’ Announces Rebranding of European Group

United-Kingdom-based National Windscreens announced that The Automotive Glass Professionals has been rebranded as Automotive Glass Europe. Continue reading

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Techna Glass Supports Local Children’s Hospital with Fundraiser

Techna Glass’ Utah auto glass shops recently raised money by inviting consumers to come out and get their windshields repaired with all proceeds going to Primary Children’s Hospital. Continue reading

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The Dwyer Group Reports Growth

The Dwyer Group, which owns the Glass Doctor franchise brand, has completed 144 new franchise contracts year-to-date. This includes 11 new Glass Doctor franchise agreements. Continue reading

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Report: Citizen’s Insurance Offers Zero Deductible for Customers Who Use Preferred Auto Glass Companies

Citizen’s Insurance of Michigan is launching a new platinum program, effective November 1, that features full automotive glass coverage at a zero deductible for customers who agree to use its preferred auto glass companies, including Safelite AutoGlass, according to a company spokesperson. If a customer with this same policy decides to go to an independent auto glass shop for a replacement outside the preferred network, the deductible increases to $100, according to reports from glassBYTEs readers. Continue reading

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Happy Halloween from the Key Communications Team

Key Communications, parent company to AGRR™ magazine/glassBYTEs.com, celebrated Halloween last Friday with many of the team members dressing up in creative costumes. From a zombie to a male tooth fairy to Princess Leia and the Mad Hatter, our office was filled with color and spooky characters. Continue reading

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New DOT Number Awarded to Italian Company

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) recently awarded a new DOT number to an auto-glass-related product manufacturer based in Italy. Continue reading

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AGRR Business Reflects Latest Unemployment Statistics

August unemployment rates were lower in 311 of the 372 metropolitan areas than at the same time in 2012, but higher in 47 areas, and unchanged in 14 others, according to the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. And many auto glass companies, such as B-Rite Glass Co. in an Atlanta suburb, say business demand is increasing as unemployment rates decline. Continue reading

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GlasWeld Asks Court to Deny Rescheduling Motion in Alleged Patent Infringement Lawsuit

GlasWeld attorneys claim in court documents filed with the U.S. District Court of Oregon, Eugene division, that Christopher Boyle’s motion to reset the scheduling order in the alleged patent infringement case “should be denied because Christopher Boyle has not shown good cause” and the request appears to be “intended solely for the purpose of delay.” Continue reading

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Mainstreet Computers Celebrates 25th Anniversary of Key Employee

Mainstreet Computers recently recognized the 25th anniversary of one of its key employees—Bill Oeftering, product development programmer. Continue reading

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