Screen Star A Blade Winner

Here's a 'groovy' idea to boost road safety - a simple cut scored into the base of a car's windscreen that helps keep the glass clearer.

Auto Express Car Reviews

22nd September 2004

It is claimed that the 0.3mm deep groove above the wipers - but below the driver's line of vision - cleans the blade as the rubber passes over it. It's widely used in Scandinavia and has just been launched in the UK.

Tim Anderton-Tyers, a director of Edinburgh-based Farseer Trading, which is selling the device in Britain, told Auto Express: "It's been used in Finland for 30 years, but has never been marketed over here. I thought it was a simple but effective device, especially with some of the weather we have."

He continued: "Visibility is a factor in a significant number of accidents, and this system addresses that problem." Anderton-Tyers claims there are additional benefits, as the groove means that motorists use less screenwash and it prevents squeaky wiper blades. The emergency services in Britain and the Royal Mail are already among potential clients which are looking into the device's benefits. The Safety Groove - which costs ΂£35 to fit - has received awards from the Traffic Institute of Finland, plus local insurance companies and safety groups.