2007 Automotive PACE Award Finalists: Webasto Glas ProTec

All Cars, All the Time - - In the never ending search for, as one glass supplier called it “openity,” the folks at Webasto have created a new, “gentle” glass for roof installations. Webasto describes Glas ProTec (yes, they spell glass minus one s) thusly:

The two sorts of glass predominantly used in car production today are the single-pane safety variety (SPSG) and laminated safety glass (LSG). Webasto took up the challenge of combining the positive characteristics of SPSG and LSG and developing additional desirable functions. SPSG is stable and yet elastic while LSG remains laminated and does not splinter in the event of damage. Webasto Glas ProTec basically comprises glass pane, foil and a special bonding. In the event of external impact leading to breakage of the glass, the resultant shards of glass are kept in the roof by the foil, so the roof’s smooth, elastically stable inner surface remains in place.

In a nutshell, you've got a glass that is lighter in weight, but still offers good protection from broken bits of glass should you crack up your new ride.

Glas Pro Tec debuted on the Mercedes R and S Class vehicles.