Automotive window film/paint protection film (PPF) supplier Autobahn has expanded its product lineup by introducing Ceramic i3+ Window Film and Rüstung PPF. Autobahn Territory Manager and Trainer Tony Kiger recently tested the new products on two family vehicles: a 2021 Volkswagen Atlas and a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4.
Autobahn Ceramic i3+ (15% VLT): 2021 Volkswagen Atlas
Autobahn Ceramic i3+ (15% VLT) mid-installation: Back glass
“No other supplier has a film with an IRR level equal to Ceramic i3+’s,” Kiger shares. “This film caters to the consumers who want the highest-possible heat rejection levels.”
Autobahn’s new Ceramic i3+ offers an industry-leading Infrared Rejection (IRR) level (99%). The film launches in three shades / Visible Light Transmittance (VLT) levels: 5%, 15%, and 30%.
“We’re starting with three shades, but will be adding more in the future,” Kiger adds. “If you’re looking for the highest-tier film, this would be it. The industry-leading IRR levels will allow dealers to sell the film at a higher price, generating more profit.”
Ceramic i3+ also features a high Total Solar Energy Rejected (TSER) level: up to 74%. Kiger says Ceramic i3+’s installation process is comparable to Ceramic i3’s.
“Ceramic i3+ is slightly more challenging to heat shrink,” Kiger shares. “Ceramic i3+ shares the same adhesive as Ceramic i3.”
For consumers seeking high performance at a lower price point, Ceramic i3 still holds value. Dealers will also likely experience an uptick in demand for Ceramic i3 due to the lower cost compared to Ceramic i3+.
Customers love options: VLT, performance, technology, price points, etc.
Autobahn Rüstung 10 Mil PPF: 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4
Autobahn Rüstung 10 Mil PPF mid-installation: Right and Left Truck Bed Panel
Many automotive enthusiasts live for track time and days in the desert. That’s where Autobahn Rüstung PPF comes in. Rüstung PPF is a 10 mil thick shield built to protect track toys from rock chips and scratches—and off-roaders from harsh, off-road conditions.
“Traditional PPF is around 8 mil thick,” Kiger says. “Trucks with extended wheels are prone to kick up rocks and debris, leading to paint damage. Track cars get pelted as well. An 8 mil is great for most. But some need additional protection, which requires a thicker film. Rüstung meets that need.”
Kiger says Rüstung PPF is slightly more time-consuming to install than Autobahn’s popular 8 mil Incognito PPF.
“8 mil Incognito PPF stretches easier than the thicker, 10 mil Rüstung PPF,” Kiger shares. “Rüstung PPF has the same adhesive as Incognito. Essentially, this is Incognito but a 10 mil version for consumers who want additional peace of mind. It still has an infused top coat with hydrophobic properties and has reduced orange peel, so it should not impact a vehicle’s factory finish.”
Kiger advises installers to stretch with force around sharp curves.
“You can use hot water or a streamer to soften the film, making it more pliable and stretchable around curves and contours,” he adds.
Tony’s Closing Thoughts
“We’re continuously improving and adding services,” Kiger says. “We want to avoid stagnation. We want to keep pushing the envelope and adding to the industry, so that our dealers have more products to offer consumers.”
Autobahn Ceramic i3+ Window Film and Rüstung Paint Protection Film (PPF) are available now on the Dealer Store.