Valeo Maximizes Driver Visibility With OPTI-Wash Heated Wash System

    PARIS--Sept. 20, 2001--Valeo (Paris: FR; OTC: VLEEY) announces the world debut of a high performance vehicle windscreen cleaning system, called OPTI-Wash(tm), that makes a major contribution to driver comfort and safety by maximizing driver visibility in all weather conditions.
    The design and development of OPTI-Wash(tm) responds to consumer demand in Valeo's "Seeing and Being Seen" Domain for a simple and effective method to significantly improve the existing cold windscreen wash/wipe function currently found as standard equipment on all types of vehicles.
    By heating a small amount of washer fluid to approximately 65(degree) C as it travels to the washer nozzles, OPTI-Wash(tm) quickly and easily improves visibility by enhancing the cleaning of most contamination from the vehicle windscreen. In addition, since the system has a very short initial heating time, typically less than 60 seconds after the ignition is switched on, hot washer fluid is readily available to assist in the de-frosting of the windscreen which is a valuable and convenient safety feature. Compared to current wash systems, OPTI-Wash(tm) saves as much as half the volume of washer fluid to clean the windscreen.
    Valeo design engineers have succeeded in packaging the components of the OPTI-Wash(tm) system into a small unit weighing less than 500 grams. This unit is self-contained with automatic electronic controls. The OPTI-Wash(tm) unit is compatible with any type of windscreen washer fluid and is a simple and quick connection to the existing wash and electrical systems.
    The new system is flexible and has almost universal application since 12, 24 and 42 Volt versions will be available that can be easily retro-fitted to most vehicle makes and models, including commercial vehicles.
    Given the major driver benefit of improved visibility, it is anticipated that safety campaigners may request such systems to be specified across entire vehicle ranges as standard equipment. Moving from a position of optional aftermarket installation to standard OE equipment may well be the future for the OPTI-Wash(tm) system.
    The OPTI-Wash(tm) system is scheduled for production in 2002 and will initially be supplied to aftermarket customers through Valeo Distribution, leading to application as standard equipment on production vehicles.
    Valeo is exhibiting at the IAA International Motor Show on stand E02 in Hall 8.
    Valeo is an independent industrial group fully focused on the design, production and sale of components, integrated systems and modules for cars and trucks and ranks among the world's top automotive suppliers. The Group has 162 plants, 49 R&D centers, 10 distribution centers and employs 78,000 people in 25 countries worldwide.