FEW PARTS CAUSE as much argument within car companies as the humble rear windscreen wiper. Designers hate the clunky looks. Engineers complain that they add weight and ruin the airflow, while bean counters look at the cost of the arm, motor, switch and wiring.
But woe betide any manufacturer who launches a hatchback, estate or SUV without one. Excuses about having special coatings, cameras or spoilers to direct airflow across the back window just don’t wash with customers, who will complain relentlessly – especially in the UK.