Lab that tests car products based in Houston

Jeff Ehling Image
Saturday, June 7, 2014
Car care products to the test
Houston is home to a secret lab that tests car products that claims to keep your car clean

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- From your engine to your tires, there are a host of products out there that can keep your car looking good and running right. But you probably don't know that a lot of those products were developed right here in Houston.



When it comes to keeping his car clean, Von Mixon has tried a lot of products but keeps going back to Black Magic.



"Long lasting shine, that's it I love it," said Mixon. "I have tried other brands but when I use it, it lasts."



While Mixon knows the tire cleaner works, he had no idea it was developed right here in Houston.



From wind tunnels blowing rain drops to acid tests that can cut an aluminum strip in half, ITW Global Brands tests all sorts of car care products at its labs just north of the 610 Loop.



Finding products that work is just part of the problem. James Stone with ITW Global Brands says keeping ahead of consumer demand is another.



"Assessing different types of conditions, assessing different types of consumer needs, what's going on from the auto manufacturers, industry trends, and we are modeling and building products for better solutions for people to take care of their vehicles," said Stone.



Manufacturers are always looking for the next big thing. The lab we visited says they are working on a product that will keep rain from sticking to your window, no matter what the conditions.

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