Ssangyong announces world's first touch-window system

Ssangyong has designed the world’s first touch-window system, allowing drivers and passengers to open and close a car's windows by touching them.

The brand, owned by Indian automotive giant Mahindra, says the public can expect to see the technology before the end of the year.

The car maker told Autocar that there will be "further procedures" such as verification and market studies to undertake before using the technology in mass-production models, but that it is considering introducing the system into a concept car at a motor show later this year. 

Ssangyong said that this is one of many new technologies under consideration after being suggested by its researchers and employees.

Ssangyong boss Choi Jong-sik said: "The company will continue to develop next-generation products that will meet the needs of its customers while setting a new trend by encouraging creative ideas and innovative research."

While Ssangyong claims this is the first example of such technology, other manufacturers have previously mentioned similar possibilities. Last year, it was reported that Jaguar was working on windows that could be opened and closed by touching the glass, but the car maker did not put any timeframe on when it would make production.

Ssangyong is planning to launch three new models over the next three years, starting with an all-new Ssangyong Rexton large SUV, which rivals the Hyundai Santa Fe. It will also launch electric versions of its model line-up by 2020 and is currently testing an electric Ssangyong Tivoli.