Aquapel Glass Treatment by PPG Helps Drivers See Clearly, Drive Safer - Longer

PITTSBURGH--Nov. 1, 20040, 2004--As temperatures and leaves fall, many vehicle owners ensure their cars and trucks will perform in harsh winter conditions by replacing wiper blades and checking tires, fluids and batteries. Installing Aquapel glass treatment on windshields is equally important, according to Paul Recrosio, Aquapel business manager for PPG Industries .

In addition to reducing night glare and causing rain to bead and shed off the glass, Recrosio said, "Aquapel glass treatment also makes it easier to scrape off ice, snow and dirt, which improves winter car care and driving. It's even good for milder climates to help with rain as well as bug and sap removal."

Recrosio said one application of Aquapel glass treatment on a vehicle's windshield, side windows or rear window may last as much as six times longer than other glass-treatment products. "One installation should last the entire winter," he said, even with wiper use, washing and scraping. "The treatment forms a chemical bond with the glass, preventing it from washing away."

A University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute study found that a driver's visual acuity can improve as much as 34 percent after a car windshield is coated with glass treatment. The study also found as much as a 25-percent improvement in a driver's response time after windshield treatment, from four seconds to three. At 40 mph, that represents 58 feet - a considerable difference when facing winter's slick, wet driving conditions.

"The key feature of Aquapel glass treatment is how it can improve driver safety," Recrosio said. "Being able to clean the windshield faster is helpful, but being able to see clearly - even in harsh weather conditions - is critical."

Do-it-yourselfers can buy applications of Aquapel glass treatment, which can be applied in just five minutes, by calling 1-800-203-7799. It is also professionally installed at many glass shops, body shops, quick lubes, car washes and other automotive service operations throughout the United States. For details, visit www.aquapel.com.

Pittsburgh-based PPG Industries is a global supplier of coatings, glass, fiber glass and chemicals, with manufacturing facilities and equity affiliates in 23 countries. Sales were US$8.8 billion in 2003.

Aquapel is a trademark of PPG Industries, Inc.