Robert Bosch Marks 100 Years Since Inventing the Electric Wiper, Sets Sights on Future Mobility

[Financial News] Global automotive parts supplier Robert Bosch marks the 100th anniversary this year of inventing the world's first electric wiper. The company aims to take the lead in the future mobility market by leveraging wiper technology that has evolved beyond a simple rain-removal device into a key component for reducing noise in electric vehicles and improving recognition rates for autonomous-driving sensors.
On the 11th, Robert Bosch announced a global campaign to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the invention of the electric wiper, highlight its history of innovation, and strengthen partnerships with auto repair shops and customers worldwide.
Since first introducing the electric wiper in 1926, Robert Bosch has set technological standards in the automotive parts market by successively commercializing intermittent wiping and Bosch Aerotwin flat wipers. In 1994, it developed dual-material wiper rubber that improved cleaning performance. Bosch Aerotwin, a flat-blade wiper launched in 2001, is now standard equipment as an original equipment (OE) part on most new vehicles. Its key features include an aerodynamic design and customized Evodium spring strips, which ensure optimal contact pressure and durability.
As the automotive industry shifts toward electric vehicles and autonomous driving, the importance of wiper systems continues to grow. Because electric vehicles lack engine noise, technology that reduces friction noise generated during wiper operation has become essential. Clear windshields are also directly linked to the ability of cameras and sensors to maintain visibility for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Bart Robeins, head of wiper development at Robert Bosch, explained, "Modern wipers are a core vehicle component," adding, "The latest electric vehicles, in particular, strongly require wipers that operate smoothly without irritating noise."
Robert Bosch is also actively supplying customized solutions for the commercial vehicle market. The Bosch Aerotwin J.E.T-Blade, which has nozzles built into the wiper blade, sprays cleaning fluid directly as it moves across the windshield, preventing visibility obstruction caused by spray mist. Its pre-assembled adapter design improves reliability for logistics fleet operators and significantly reduces installation time at frontline repair shops.
To mark the 100th anniversary of the wiper's invention, Robert Bosch will launch a large-scale global communications campaign around Automechanika 2026, an automotive parts exhibition. Under the slogan "Looking at the essentials for 100 years," the company plans to convey a brand story spanning generations and further expand its share of the global aftermarket market.
[email protected] Dong-ho Kim Reporter