NEW YORK, April 21, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Starting tomorrow and continuing through May 1, 2011, thousands of visitors to the New York International Auto Show will be able to experience for themselves the most advanced and energy-efficient glass on the planet.
A photo accompanying this release is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=8704
Daimler AG, working in conjunction with Research Frontiers (Nasdaq:REFR), the inventor of SPD-SmartGlass technology, Hitachi Chemical Co. and glass companies Nippon Sheet Glass and Pilkington, has introduced a world's first: the Mercedes-Benz SLK Roadster with Magic Sky Control technology.
The Mercedes-Benz Magic Sky Control roof is made possible by Research Frontiers' patented SPD-Smart technology and allows you to simply press a button and instantly change the tint of the roof from very dark to clear.
Joseph M. Harary, President and CEO of Research Frontiers, noted during press day at the New York Auto Show today: "This feature on the new Mercedes-Benz SLK Roadster saves energy by reducing heat inside the vehicle, which reduces air conditioning requirements and CO2 emissions, and can also save fuel. The Magic Sky Control option also brings more daylighting into the vehicle when you want it, and enhances the driving experience by allowing owners of the SLK to enjoy the pleasure of driving a convertible all year round."
Look for the red SLK roadster at the Mercedes-Benz exhibition at the New York Auto Show to see the Magic Sky Control panoramic glass roof which Motor Trend Magazine has referred to as the "killer app" and "the coolest part of the SLK without question" and "amazing stuff."
In February 2011, it was announced that Daimler AG has selected SPD-Smart light-control technology for its Magic Sky Control panoramic glass roof now offered on the new Mercedes-Benz SLK Roadster. Test results from Mercedes-Benz show this roof reduces sun exposure in the vehicle to 1/20th of direct exposure levels. Further, when compared to conventional automotive glass, Mercedes-Benz also reports that the use of SPD-SmartGlass significantly reduces the temperature inside the vehicle by up to 18ºF. In addition, the ability to block over 99.9% of harmful UV light protects interiors, increasing the useful life of fabrics and other materials.
Made with patented light-control SPD film developed by Research Frontiers and currently being produced by Hitachi Chemical Company in their dedicated factory line in Japan, SPD-SmartGlass is the world's fastest-switching variably tintable dynamic glazing technology. It is the only dimmable window technology that gives users the ability to instantly and precisely control the level of shading to any point between very dark and clear. This provides exceptional control over solar energy while also adding to user comfort and protecting interiors. Available in both glass and lightweight polycarbonate substrates, SPD-Smart products – windows, skylights, doors, partitions, sunroofs and more – are laminated glazings that offer a distinctive combination of sustainability and security, can be controlled manually or automatically, and are available in custom sizes and fabrications for new construction, replacement and retrofit projects.
About Research Frontiers Inc.
Research Frontiers Inc. (Nasdaq:REFR) is the developer of SPD-Smart light-control technology which allows users to instantly, precisely and uniformly control the shading of glass or plastic, either manually or automatically. Having invested over $80 million to date to develop its technology, Research Frontiers currently holds approximately 500 patents and patent applications and has built an infrastructure of 39 licensed companies that collectively are capable of serving the growing global demand for smart glass products in automobiles, homes, buildings, aircraft and boats. Further information about SPD-Smart technology, Research Frontiers and its licensees can be found at www.SmartGlass.com.
Note: From time to time Research Frontiers may issue forward-looking statements which involve risks and uncertainties. This press release contains forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ and are not guaranteed. Any forward-looking statements should be considered accordingly. "SPD-Smart" and "SPD-SmartGlass" are trademarks of Research Frontiers Inc. "MAGIC SKY CONTROL" and "Mercedes-Benz" are trademarks of Daimler AG.
For further information or to schedule a visit to the Research Frontiers Design Center, please contact:
The photo is also available at Newscom, www.newscom.com, and via AP PhotoExpress.
The Research Frontiers Incorporated logo is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=6935
