On June 25, 2009, CARB adopted a regulation that will require new cars sold in California, starting in 2012, to have windows that reflect or absorb heat-producing rays from the sun. This will help keep cars cooler, increase their fuel efficiency and reduce global warming pollution.
According to CARB, compared to cars currently in showrooms, windows that comply with the standard will block 33 percent more heat-producing rays from the sun. This will cool the vehicle's interior by approximately 14 degrees Fahrenheit for a car and 12 degrees Fahrenheit for a pickup or SUV. Lower temperatures require less use of air conditioning, both upon starting a car parked in the sun and while driving in sunny conditions.
The regulation has two steps. Over a three-year period starting in 2012 windows in new cars sold in California must prevent 45 percent of the sun's total heat-producing energy from entering the car, with the windshield rejecting at least 50 percent of the sun's energy.
In 2016 car manufacturers will be required to install windows in new cars sold in California that prevent at least 60 percent of the sun's heat-producing rays from entering the cars interior, or propose alternative technologies to achieve an equivalent result.
Costs for the windows are expected to average $70 for the 2012 standard, and about $250 for the 2016 standard, with annual savings in gas of $16 and $20 respectively. CARB says that costs will be recouped over a five to twelve year period.
