Bosch has celebrated 100 years of wiper blade innovation through a cross-country road trip that highlighted the role of advanced wiper technology in improving driver visibility and safety across changing road and weather conditions.
Bosch introduced the first electrically operated wiper system in 1926, which comprised an electric motor that drove a rubber-coated arm via a worm screw and gear. The company’s electrically operated wiper blades have contributed significantly to giving drivers a clearer view of the road ahead, especially when it is raining.
This innovation was followed by the introduction of an electric windshield washer system in 1959, which can be activated at the push of a button. When activated, an electric pump sprayed water onto the windshield through nozzles mounted on the vehicle’s hood.
The German company shared that the innovations ranging from early electric drive motors to advanced rubber compounds and jointless beam blade designs have helped shape modern windshield wiper systems. In fact, the idea and the function of the wiper blades and washer system are still integrated in modern vehicles, which is a testament to the system’s effectiveness in giving better or clearer visibility when driving.
“For 100 years, Bosch has focused on helping drivers get to their destinations safely, no matter the weather conditions,” said Bosch Mobility Aftermarket Senior Marketing Communications Specialist Scott Sullivan.
To further highlight its wiper blades, Bosch has produced a video in partnership with the Engineering Explained YouTube channel. The video features a trivia-like discussion on Bosch’s 100-year milestone while the host of Engineering Explained drove through Route 66, a historic highway in the United States.
Bosch said that wiper blades have been more than just a piece of technology. They have become a vehicle component that has become your reliable companion on every journey. The company added that its wiper blades were engineered for “stable, smooth, and innovative wiping,” and are designed to “guide you through any weather, giving you the safety that turns mobility into freedom.”
Autocar’s Take
Wiper blades are one of the underrated yet among the most important vehicle components. It arguably makes your drives safer and a whole lot more convenient, especially when you find yourself driving in a sudden downpour. Thanks to the wiper blades, you have better visibility when driving through the rain. Aside from that, wiper blades can also help you clean your windshield, giving you instant results as well as a clearer view of the road ahead. Indeed, Bosch has every right to celebrate its 100 years of wiper blade innovation.
