Canadian startup cuts windshield defrosting to one minute

Car users struggle with two problems in winter — cold weather and ice on the windshield, whether it’s an EV or a gasoline vehicle. In any case, one either burns gas or loses driving range to defrost the windshield. However, it appears a more convenient solution has been invented, according to Autoblog.

The proposed solution

The Canada-based startup Betterfrost Technologies introduced a simple yet unusual technology. Instead of using warm air blowing, the system applies pulsed heat directly to the windshield, targeting the ice interfacial layer roughly 0.01 millimeters thick. This eliminates the grip, causing the ice crust to slide down.

The whole process takes around 75 seconds.

Why it matters for EVs

Cold environments pose a particular challenge for EVs. Windshield defrosting may take up to 40 kilometers of driving range. Betterfrost’s system uses approximately 20 times less energy compared to traditional defrosting methods.

In a test conducted on a Lexus RX, the standard system took more than 16 minutes to complete the task, whereas the new technology took just over a minute. As a result, battery load is reduced, while driving range remains unaffected.

Fits not only cars

The technology is not only efficient for EVs but also for gasoline cars, especially in colder regions. Furthermore, the system has been tested in aviation — it can remove ice from aircraft wings in several minutes, even in severe frost.

At first glance, the solution may seem insignificant. However, such developments make winter rides more comfortable, EVs more practical and technology truly useful and efficient.