Rod antennas attract vandals and, increasingly, cars will require several. The radio may need more than one to optimise reception. Additionally, manufacturers are increasing the communication capability in vehicles to include features such as mobile telephones, security systems, TVs, navigation systems and automatic toll charging.

The car designer does not want a car bristling with rod antennas, so incorporating them into the glazing is an attractive solution. The use of 'on-glass antennas' is already established in Japan - the pacesetter for electronics in automobiles - and is increasing in Europe, especially in Germany.

Considerable expertise now exists within NSG Group in the design of glass-based printed and wire antenna systems.