Date: 7th April 2000 Reference: n/a Pilkington takes on laminated glazing challenge Pilkington Automotive, one of the world's leading automotive glazing manufacturers, has been awarded the contract to supply glazing sets for 100% of new Mercedes S-Class coupé manufacture. The vehicle is being built in Sindelfingen, Germany and Pilkington is supplying the glazing from its plants at Witten and Aken. Charles Mason, director of new model introduction for OE business at Pilkington Automotive, explains: "S-Class represents excellence in design and technical innovation. Pilkington was chosen because we were willing to meet a challenging brief and undertake extensive research and development for both the saloon and coupé models." Pilkington's Siglasol - laminated glass with an infrared reflective-coated interlayer - has been used for all glazing, including the sidelights. In fact, the S-Class series is the first vehicle to have 100% laminated glazing sets fitted as standard to all vehicles. Laminated glazing has a significant role to play in reducing noise, vibration and improving passenger comfort. It also reduces the risk of theft from the vehicle, improves personal security and minimises the risk of occupants being ejected in case of an accident. The infrared reflective coating helps to improve thermal comfort, maximising the effectiveness of air conditioning. However, because tollbooths in Europe use an infrared signal for billing purposes, Pilkington had to develop a non electro-conductive window in the windscreen that the signal can pass through. Stephan Rosebrock, account manager for DaimlerChrysler at Pilkington Automotive, comments: "Pilkington had a difficult brief to meet. As well as the technological challenges already mentioned, the glazing also had to be closely controlled because the rear quarter of the side window actually winds down and there is only a tiny amount of trim." He continues: "We worked very closely with Mercedes over the four years it has taken to develop the S-Class coupé from the concept stage, with Pilkington involved all the way through the design process." Mason adds: "Pilkington is proud to be involved with the S-Class coupé because it is seen as Mercedes flagship vehicle. With operations all over the world, and major investment in R & D, Pilkington is able to take on challenging projects from vehicle manufacturers all over the world." Ends Issued on behalf of Pilkington Automotive by Key Communications. For further information: Richard Postins or Louise Price on 0121 456 3199.