Federal-Mogul's Advanced Wiper Blade Connection System Provides Easy and Efficient Installation Solution

SOUTHFIELD, Mich., June 8 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Federal-Mogul Corporation's (Nasdaq: FDML) Bayonet Connection System for flat blade wipers has emerged as the choice in premium wiper blade technology.  The innovative flat blade system enables vehicle manufacturers to deliver a superior wiping solution that is extremely effective and easily installed by automotive professionals and consumers alike.  

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Consumer considerations are key drivers for vehicle manufacturers to equip new vehicles with an effective, yet easy-to-install, wiper system.  Federal-Mogul's Bayonet Connection System is featured as original equipment on more than 20 vehicle brands and more than 50 models worldwide.

The Bayonet Connection System, which was recently honored with a 2010 Automotive News™ PACE Award, features a unique "double-lock" safety design, helping to prevent accidental wiper disconnection; a locking button provides an audible "click" so the installer knows that the blade is securely attached.  Specific design elements not only present a clean, integrated appearance, but also prevent wiper blade installation in the wrong position or on the wrong wiper arm.  

The Federal-Mogul system's advanced wiper retention design also helps protect the blade and attachment from possible wind, ice, snow and automatic car wash damage.  The system's design provides exceptionally high retention force of 200 N as opposed to 70 N for leading competitors.  Additionally, the system helps provide controlled blade sweep and prevent wiper damage if the wiper falls back to the glass from the service position.  

Wiper blades often need to be replaced several times over the life of a vehicle.  While new wiper blades usually always improve wipe quality and reduce noise, the level of improvement also is dependent on the blade's articulation, which can degrade over time.  Federal-Mogul engineers solved this issue through the innovative design of the Bayonet Connection System, which also isolates and restores articulation and enhances wipe performance.

"Windshield wipers are a fundamental component of vehicle safety in all weather conditions," said Ramzi Hermiz, senior vice president, Federal-Mogul Vehicle Safety and Protection.  "Federal-Mogul's Bayonet Connection System demonstrates how our advanced product design and technology capabilities drive us to seek solutions that provide enhanced performance and safety for consumers."

Flat blade wipers were introduced to the automotive industry in 2000, representing a revolutionary shift in wiper blade technology.  Previous wiper systems consisted of a yoke structure, designed to distribute pressure from the wiper arm to the element through multiple points.  With the invention of the flat blade, a unitized design evenly distributes the pressure from the blade's central connector to all contact areas between the blade element and the glass, delivering improved cleaning of the glass, across the entire length of the wiper blade.  Flat blades also present a lower profile for improved aerodynamics and aesthetics while reducing wiper noise.

Federal-Mogul flat blades are sold under the ANCO® Contour and Champion® Contact brands.

About Federal-Mogul

Federal-Mogul Corporation is a leading global supplier of powertrain and safety technologies, serving the world's foremost original equipment manufacturers of automotive, light commercial, heavy-duty, agricultural, marine, rail, off-road and industrial vehicles, as well as the worldwide aftermarket. The company's leading technology and innovation, lean manufacturing expertise, as well as marketing and distribution deliver world-class products, brands and services with quality excellence at a competitive cost. Federal-Mogul is focused on its sustainable global profitable growth strategy, creating value and satisfaction for its customers, shareholders and employees.     Federal-Mogul was founded in Detroit in 1899.  The company is headquartered in Southfield, Michigan, and employs nearly 41,000 people in 33 countries. Visit the company's Web site at www.federalmogul.com.

CONTACT:  Jim Burke 248-354-4530

SOURCE Federal-Mogul Corporation