What is a polycarbonate windshield?
A polycarbonate windshield is a transparent vehicle window made from polycarbonate, an advanced engineering plastic (commonly known by the brand name Lexan®) that is up to 250 times stronger than glass yet about 50% lighter. Unlike laminated or tempered glass, polycarbonate is virtually unbreakable, making it the material of choice for applications where safety, weight reduction, and durability are critical—such as in electric vehicles, motorsport, UTVs, golf carts, armored vehicles, and autonomous machines. Modern polycarbonate windshields can be enhanced with hard-coat, anti-fog, and UV-protective layers, ensuring long-lasting clarity, scratch resistance, and weather ability.
What are the advantages of polycarbonate over glass windshields?
- Weight Reduction: Up to 50% lighter than glass.
- Impact Resistance: Around 200–250× stronger than glass.
- Shatterproof Safety: Doesn’t break into sharp shards.
- Design Flexibility: Can be thermoformed into complex curves.
- Durability: With protective coatings, resists scratches, UV, and weathering.
Is the material UV resistant or will it yellow over time?
We use UV-stabilized polycarbonate or apply a UV-resistant coating to prevent this. Our treated materials are designed to resist yellowing, cracking, and degradation from long-term outdoor exposure. This ensures your windshield stays clear, strong, and visually appealing even after years of use in sunlight.
Do you offer tinted or colored polycarbonate windshields?
Yes, we offer both tinted and colored polycarbonate windshields. Common tints include light grey, dark smoke, and bronze, which help reduce glare and UV exposure while maintaining visibility. We can also provide custom colors upon request, depending on the application and quantity. Whether you need a subtle tint for a golf cart or a bold color for branding, we can tailor the material to your needs.
Does it scratch easily? Can you add an anti-scratch coating?
Polycarbonate is extremely impact-resistant but softer than glass, so it can scratch more easily if not treated. To solve this, we offer hard-coated polycarbonate with an anti-scratch surface that greatly improves resistance to abrasion, cleaning marks, and general wear. This coating is ideal for applications like golf carts, motorcycles, and UTVs where visibility and durability are critical. Let us know your application, and we’ll recommend the right surface treatment.
Can you help with design if we don’t have a technical drawing?
Yes, we can! Our team has experience working with clients at all stages of development. If you don’t have a technical drawing, you can simply provide a sample, a sketch, or basic dimensions—and we’ll help create the necessary CAD files for production. Whether it's a concept idea or an existing windshield you want to replicate or improve, we’ll work closely with you to develop a custom solution that fits your vehicle and performance needs.
Can you produce low-volume orders or prototypes?
Yes, we can! We support low-volume production and prototyping to help customers test fit, function, and design before scaling up. Whether you need just 1–10 pieces for sampling or development, or a small production run, we’re equipped to handle it efficiently. Our in-house CNC and forming capabilities allow us to offer fast turnaround and flexibility for custom projects.
Can you add curves, holes, or cutouts for mounting?
Yes, we can fully customize your windshield with curves, holes, notches, and cutouts for mounting or accessories. Using CNC machining and thermoforming, we ensure precise fitting based on your design or specifications. Whether you need a curved windshield with pre-drilled mounting holes, slots for folding hardware, or custom edge shapes, we can produce it accurately and efficiently.
What is your lead time for custom orders?
Our typical lead time for custom polycarbonate windshields is 7–25 working days, depending on the complexity of the design, quantity, and any special processing like coating or printing. For urgent or prototype orders, we can often expedite production. Once we receive your final drawing or sample and confirm all details, we’ll provide an exact delivery schedule.
How does polycarbonate compare to acrylic (Plexiglass) windshields?
- Strength: Polycarbonate is ~30× stronger than acrylic and much more impact-resistant.
- Scratch Resistance: Acrylic naturally resists scratching better, but polycarbonate with a hard coating outperforms both.
- Flexibility: Polycarbonate bends without cracking, acrylic is more brittle.
- Cost: Acrylic is cheaper, but polycarbonate lasts longer in demanding environments.
Are polycarbonate windshields street-legal?
It depends on local regulations:
• In the U.S., DOT (FMVSS 205) standards govern windshields. Most polycarbonate options are not yet fully certified for mass-market passenger cars due to scratch clarity requirements.
• In Europe, ECE R43 applies, with strict optical and durability testing.
• Polycarbonate is widely accepted in motorsport, aviation, marine, off-road, and specialty vehicles.
What coating options are available?
- Hard-coat (abrasion resistant): Protects against scratches and everyday wear.
- UV protection: Prevents yellowing and maintains optical clarity.
- Anti-fog coating: Helps maintain visibility in humid or rainy conditions.
- Anti-glare or tinted finishes: Reduces eye strain and glare for drivers.
How do I clean a polycarbonate windshield?
- Use mild soap and water with a microfiber or 100% cotton cloth.
- Avoid ammonia-based cleaners (like Windex) and solvents—they cause hazing and cracks.
- Rinse debris before wiping to prevent scratches.
- Apply specialized cleaners or coatings for long-term clarity.
Can polycarbonate windshields be repaired?
Light scratches can sometimes be buffed out with specialized polishing kits. Deep scratches or coating damage typically require replacement.
How is a polycarbonate windshield installed or assembled?
- Custom Fit: Often thermoformed to vehicle specifications.
- Mounting Options: Bolted frames, rubber seals, or quick-release clamps (common in ATVs/UTVs).
- Sealing: Proper weatherproofing with compatible gaskets is recommended.
What vehicles use polycarbonate windshields?
- Electric vehicles (EVs) for weight reduction and range.
- Motorsport (rally, endurance, off-road).
- Motorcycles, ATVs, and UTVs.
- Aviation and marine applications.
- Military, armored, and heavy machinery.
How long does a polycarbonate windshield last?
With proper coatings and care, they can last 5–10 years or longer without yellowing or significant wear—often outlasting acrylic and some laminated glass in tough conditions.