Bosch Celebrates 100 Years of Wiper Innovation with Route 66 Centennial Journey

Bosch is celebrating 100 years of wiper blade innovation with a cross-country Route 66 journey focused on driver visibility and road safety. The 2,400-mile trip began on April 29 in Chicago and will conclude on May 8 in Santa Monica, California.

The Route 66 centennial journey highlights the evolution of automotive wiper technology across changing weather and driving conditions. The event has been designated as an Official Route 66 Centennial Project and features multiple stops with automotive retailers and industry partners.

Automotive creators Jason Fenske and Ben Lin, alongside Ben Thorn, are documenting the journey. Their coverage focuses on modern wiper performance and advancements in automotive technology.

“For 100 years, Bosch has focused on helping drivers get to their destinations safely, no matter the weather conditions,” said Scott Sullivan. “This Route 66 journey showcases how wiper blade technology has evolved alongside the automotive communities who rely on them.”

Bosch introduced its first electrically operated wiper system in 1926. Since then, the company has continued developing innovations including advanced rubber compounds, electric drive motors, and jointless beam blade designs to improve visibility and safety.

The journey begins with a classic performance vehicle before transitioning to a modern electric vehicle midway through the route. Bosch said the drive demonstrates how automotive technologies have evolved across generations while maintaining a focus on safety and reliability.

The road trip will conclude with a wrap celebration in Santa Monica attended by media representatives, automotive partners, and Route 66 Centennial leaders. Bosch is also expected to announce additional initiatives supporting drivers and automotive communities along the historic highway.