National Press Release

BROADVIEW, Ill., June 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Sophisticated safety features such as antilock brakes, traction control, and now, electronic stability control, continue to make it a lot safer to drive on today's crowded highways. Yet, being able to drive safely still begins with having a crystal clear view of the road.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080605/NETHFNS1 )

"Damage to your windshield wipers over time is inevitable; temperature extremes, exposure to the sun's rays, ozone and road chemicals are unavoidable enemies," said Otto Stefaner, Group Product Manager, Wiper Systems for Bosch, the largest worldwide supplier of automotive parts and systems. (http://www.boschautoparts.com.)

According to the National Safety Council, 90 percent of a driver's reactions depend on vision. Statistics from the Department of Transportation indicate 450,000 injury-related crashes occur annually in adverse weather conditions. Driving with worn out wiper blades, therefore, especially in low visibility conditions, means inviting trouble.

Changing the wiper blades as recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer with latest technology 'bracketless' blades, for example, said Stefaner, can make a noticeable difference to your view of the road -- and your safety. Bosch, an innovator in wiper technology for over 75 years, introduced 'bracketless' blades in 1999 in its original equipment Aerotwin blade. These blades are now available for the aftermarket, as the ultra performance, bracketless Bosch ICON for most new domestic and import vehicles.

The ICON's combination of bracketless design, internal tension springs and wind spoiler allows the blade to wipe smoothly, evenly and quietly from top to bottom and from side to side.

The ICON's enclosed steel tension springs eliminate external steel brackets and joints preventing snow and ice build-up resulting in a clean wipe throughout the year with no missed spots or streaks.

Plus the exclusive fx dual-rubber compound reduces 'chatter' and makes for greater durability and long-lasting performance.

Furthermore, air flowing over the wind spoiler creates a down-force, which applies uniform pressure along the entire length of the blade, helping it to hug the windshield uniformly.

Bosch estimates 40 percent of new U.S. domestic vehicles will come equipped with bracketless blades by 2010.

As far as driving safety is concerned, a clear view of the road is your first line of defense, and bracketless wiper technology is well positioned to show the way.

SOURCE Robert Bosch LLC