Vindrutan

Vindrutan, the Swedish term for windshield, is the front window of a motor vehicle. It is designed to provide a clear view of the road while protecting occupants from wind, weather, and debris. Modern windshields are typically made of laminated safety glass, meaning two glass sheets bonded by a plastic interlayer such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or an ionoplast material. This construction helps keep the glass from shattering into sharp pieces during impact and supports the vehicle’s structural integrity in a crash.

Windshields are usually curved to fit the vehicle’s design and are supported by the frame and the wiper system. Many windshields incorporate features such as heating elements for defogging, rain-sensing or light-sensing equipment, and housings for cameras and sensors used in advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). In some regions, windshields may also include UV protection and tinting at the edges.

Safety standards for windshields vary by country and region. They are generally governed by national or regional regulatory bodies and often reference standards for glazing materials and installation. Common references include European regulations for safety glass and similar standards in the United States and other markets.

Damage to a windshield, such as chips or cracks, can impair visibility and compromise safety. Small damage may be repairable with resin injection, but larger or structurally compromised windshields typically require full replacement. Regular cleaning with appropriate glass cleaners and prompt repair of damage help maintain visibility and safety.

Historically, laminated safety glass for windshields became standard in the early 20th century, replacing earlier single-pane glass in many vehicles. The term vindrutan is widely used in Swedish contexts to denote this essential automotive component.