Components supplier Bosch claims uptake by carmakers for its new Aerotwin flat bar wiper blade will have a huge impact on the UK aftermarket. The new blade, already fitted to Mercedes, Volkswagen, Audi, Renault and Ford models, replaces the traditional hinge bracket with a twin rubber compound and in-built tension strip tailored to the curve of the windscreen. Retro-fit blades will be available in the autumn. Mark Roberts, Bosch Aftermarket Division director, predicts Aerotwin will be fitted to more than 80 per cent of new vehicles within two years. “The impact for the replacement wiper market will be huge,” he said. “Drivers expect like-for-like replacement, so all workshops and retailers will need to carry a stock of flat bar blades.”