BMW Sun Protection Glass: Protect Your Skin And Eyes

Driving in a BMW is an exceptional experience. Their vehicles blend luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology for a sublime ride. But did you know certain BMW models also protect your health with advanced UV ray blocking sun protection glass?

Prolonged sun exposure can lead to skin damage, eye issues, and skin cancer down the road. BMW’s sun protection glass blocks over 99% of harmful UVA and UVB rays from entering the cabin. This innovative technology safeguards your skin and eyes unlike standard auto glass.

So how does BMW’s specialized glass keep harmful UV light at bay? Which specific BMW vehicles offer sun protection glass? And should it factor into your purchase or lease decision?

This comprehensive guide answers everything you need to know about BMW’s protective sun protection glass. You’ll learn how their patented design blocks virtually all UV rays for a healthier in-cabin environment.

How Does BMW’s Sun Protection Glass Work?

BMW fits certain vehicles with specialized glass that blocks 99% of UVA and UVB rays from entering the cabin. This significantly reduces sun exposure and damage to your skin and eyes. But what makes their glass so effective compared to regular automotive glass?

Thin Film Layering Process Filters UV Rays

BMW’s glass uses a thin film layering process to absorb and reflect UV light. The glass is treated with a microscopic sun protection film that helps block UVA and UVB rays.

This thin coating filters out the majority of ultraviolet light striking the window. Only a small percentage of UV rays can penetrate the protective coating.

So instead of passing directly through the glass, the sun’s harmful UV rays are reflected and scattered away by BMW’s treatment.

Sandwich Design Incorporates Protective Polymer Film

In addition to the thin film layer on the exterior glass, BMW’s sun protection glass utilizes a sandwich design. This sandwiches an interior UV filtering polymer film between the exterior glass pane and an inner structural pane.

The added layer of sun protection film provides further UV ray blocking power. The polymer material screens out UVA and UVB light that made it through the outer glass treatment.

This extra line of defense ensures virtually no UV light permeates into the cabin. BMW’s glass reduces UV ray transmission by over 99% using this dual-action sandwich method.

Panoramic Sunroof Option Also Blocks UV Rays

BMW vehicles equipped with the optional full panoramic sunroof also providesun protection. The expansive panoramic glass roof panels incorporate the same UV filtering technology.

So you can open up the roof for a breath of fresh air while still blocking 99% of harmful solar radiation. BMW ensures all sunroofs on UV protected models screen out UVA/UVB light.

The panoramic roof and side windows with BMW’s sun protection glass give occupants the benefits of natural light without UV exposure.

BMW’s Glass Exceeds ANSI UV Protection Standards

So how does BMW’s UV blocking glass compare against industry standards? The specialized glass actually exceeds strict benchmarks for ultraviolet light protection.

Meets ANSI Z26.1 Automotive Glass UV Standard

BMW’s sun protection glass meets and surpasses the ANSI Z26.1 standard. This automotive safety code sets UV protection levels for laminated vehicular glazing.

For side windows and sunroofs, the minimum level is that glazing must block at least 95% of UVA rays and 99% of UVB rays. BMW’s glass surpasses even these rigorous benchmarks.

By incorporating innovative thin film and sandwich polymer technologies, their glass blocks over 99% of UVA and UVB rays.

Provides 5X More UV Protection Than Untreated Glass

Untreated standard automotive glass only blocks around 20% of UV rays from the sun. In contrast, BMW’s specialized glass provides over 5 times more UV protection.

Rather than filtering out just one-fifth of UVA/UVB light, their glass blocks well over 99% from entering the vehicle. This dramatically reduces solar UV exposure.

For Convertibles, BMW equips models with extra UV reflecting materials in the cloth top as well. This provides supplemental protection when the top is down.

Safeguards Skin and Eyes From Photoaging and Damage

Thanks to the maximized UV ray protection, BMW’s sun protection glass safeguards your skin and eyes from exposure. This helps minimize photoaging, sun damage, and longer term cancer risk.

Too much unprotected time in the sun ages skin faster with more wrinkles, sun spots, and precancers. Overexposure can also lead to eye issues like cataracts and macular degeneration over time.

By blocking 99%+ of UVA/UVB rays, BMW’s glass helps prevent these UV damage effects during your drive.

Which BMW Vehicles Have Sun Protection Glass?

BMW’s protective sun protection glass doesn’t come standard on all vehicles. Certain models come equipped with the UV filtering windows while others require custom ordering this optional extra.

Comes Standard on BMW M Models

For high performance BMW M models, sun protection glass comes standard right from the factory.

All M Series vehicles built in 2015 model year or later feature the protective glass. This spans the full lineup from the M2 Coupe and M5 Sedan up to the M8 Convertible and X5/X6 M SUVs.

So getting behind the wheel of the most powerful BMWs also means you get healthier UV protected windows at no extra cost.

Optional Add-On for Most Other BMW Models

Unless it’s an M car, BMW’s sun protection glass is still an optional add-on for most vehicles. You’ll need to custom order it as an extra-cost option for your specific car.

Certain limitations may also apply based on the model, packages, or trim level. Check for eligibility during the purchase process.

For a fully protected car, it’s worth inquiring about compatibility and pricing with your dealer. Then decide if the added skin and eye benefits merit the investment.

Availability of BMW’s Sun Protection Glass by Model

Which BMW models can be equipped with sun protection glass? Here’s a breakdown of availability across their lineup:

1 Series

The compact 1 Series models including the Sport Hatch and high-performance M140i do not offer BMW’s protective glass. These smaller vehicles lack the full UV protection of larger models.

2 Series

On the 2 Series Coupe range, UV protection glass is unavailable on base trim levels. However, it can be added as an option on higher M Sport and M235i trims.

For the 2 Series Convertible, sun protection glass comes standard on all model years. The convertible top provides additional UV ray protection when raised.

3 Series

The popular midsize 3 Series Sedan and Sports Wagon span several models like the 330i, M340i and plug-in hybrid 330e. Sun protection glass is optional across the full range.

All trim levels from base Sport Line to Luxury Line and M Sport Package options can add UV protecting glass. The panoramic moonroof also blocks over 99% of UV rays when specified.

4 Series

The sleek 4 Series coupes and convertibles can all be optioned with BMW’s sun protection glass. On Gran Coupe four door models, it’s also available across trim lines. This adds healthy protection when driving with the convertible top down.

5 Series

Across all model years of the executive class 5 Series lineup, BMW’s UV ray blocking glass is on the options list. The protective treatment can be added to Sedan, Sports Wagon, and Gran Turismo body styles.

6 Series

The 6 Series range featured sleek coupes and convertibles when last produced from 2012 to 2018. For applicable model years, sun protection glass was an optional extra across all trims. However, the 6 Series line has since been discontinued.

7 Series

For BMW’s flagship luxury Sedan, the cutting-edge 7 Series, sun protection glass is an optional feature. All trim levels from the turbocharged 740i up through the V12 powered M760i can add the UV filtering windows.

8 Series

On the exotic ultra-luxury 8 Series coupes and convertibles, BMW’s sun protection glass comes standard. The Gran Coupe model also includes the protective glazing without the need for options.

X3

The popular X3 compact SUV offers sun protection glass as an optional extra. All trim levels from the entry-level xDrive30i through the high-performance M40i can select it. Adding the glass helps filter light through the standard panoramic moonroof.

X4

BMW’s coupe-like X4 SUV range also makes sun protection glass available as an option across all trims. Choosing this extra provides protection when opening the available panoramic moonroof on sunny days.

X5

The versatile midsize X5 SUV can be equipped with BMW’s special glass for blocking UV rays on all trims. This includes the base xDrive40i, sporty M50i, and the hybrid xDrive45e plug-in electric model.

X6

Similar to the X4, the curvy coupe-like X6 SUV offers sun protection glass as an optional upgrade. Adding this extra protects occupants when driving with the available panoramic moonroof open.

X7

BMW’s largest luxury SUV, the full-size X7, provides the UV blocking glass option on all model trims. Choosing this extra is recommended to protect passenger health through the huge standard panoramic sky lounge LED roof.

Z4

On BMW’s fun luxury roadster, the two seat Z4 convertible, sun protection glass can be optioned on all model trims. Add this glass for protection against UV rays when cruising with the top down.

The Health and Eye Benefits of Choosing Sun Protection Glass

Given the risks of sun overexposure, choosing BMW’s sun protection glass provides important health advantages for any extra-cost. Here are key benefits for your skin and eyes:

Minimizes skin damage and photo-aging from UVA/UVB exposure
Reduces risk of developing skin cancer including melanoma
Protects eyes against cataracts, macular degeneration, and photokeratitis
Blocks 99% of UV rays while still allowing in natural light
Provides 5X more UV ray protection compared to untreated auto glass
Safeguards passengers when driving with convertible tops and sunroofs open
Provides peace of mind knowing your eyes and skin are shielded

For a modest upgrade fee on most models, those benefits can pay off long-term in eye and skin health. Passengers will also enjoy a more pleasant drive without sun glare and heat.

Add BMW’s Sun Protection Glass at Your Next Purchase

BMW’s advanced glass with UV ray blocking technology offers a valuable advantage. While standard on high-performance M models, adding sun protection glass is a smart option for other vehicles.

Before your next lease or purchase, check on compatibility for your preferred BMW model. Inquire with a dealer about pricing and inclusion for your car configuration.

Given the health perks, upgrading to BMW’s innovative glass is an easy call. Protect your eyes and skin from UV damage while cruising carefree in your new Ultimate Driving Machine.