Singyes new auto glass: now you see it, now you don't

An automobile windows glass that can become semitransparent at the press of button is nearing market entry, it was announced by China Singyes (Xingye) New Materials Holdings Ltd in Tangjiawan on Aug 12.

The switchable automotive electrochromic dimming glass enables instant control. The key to the technology is indium tin oxide (ITO) film that is produced to create transparent conductive coatings for displays. When energized, the glass is transparent, otherwise it becomes non-transparent but still non-opaque, according to a project head.

The company spokesman called it a big step toward intelligent automotive glass innovation. He added that car ownership in China stands at 300 million and is growing by 10 million yearly -- a most promising market. 

Dimmable glass [Photo courtesy glass.com.cn]

Singyes is teaming up with Fujian-headquartered Fuyao Glass Industry Group Co Ltd to develop the product. Fuyao is a domestic giant and China's largest car glass production supplier with the highest level of technology and largest export volume. Singyes will provide Fuyao with smart window films that protect against ultra violet rays and ensure privacy.

Similar cooperation is under way between Singyes and Shanghai Yaohua Pilkington Glass Group Co Ltd, one of China's first listed glass manufacturers.

Singyes is located at the Technological Innovation Coast of the Zhuhai National Hi-Tech Industrial Development Zone. The company engages in R&D, manufacturing, and sales of new materials. Its technologies have been widely applied to make dimming "smart" products including films and glass. It also produces audio and video hardware such as dimming projection systems and laser home theater systems.

China Singyes New Materials Holdings went public on the Hong Kong Growth Enterprise Market (GEM) last month, becoming the first dimming materials producer in China to be listed there. And recently, the Singyes R&D building became the city's first to obtain the Platinum Certificate for LEED Building Design & Construction.