Do 'Advanced Electromagnetic' De-Icers for Cars Really Work? My Hands-On Investigation

Insights from ZDNET

I often find myself simultaneously fascinated and perplexed by the creativity of individuals who design questionable tech products. Through the years, I've scrutinized numerous odd devices, ranging from one gimmick to another.

The latest peculiar gadget on my desk was something billed as an 'advanced electromagnetic antifreeze snow removal device.' A friend of a relative had purchased this device, puzzled over its ineffectiveness, and passed it on to me for review.

The packaging of this gadget is rife with grandiose claims, suggesting that it employs 'active electron interference' to keep water and ice off your windshield. It also asserts that the device poses no risk to the human brain.

Reassuringly, the promise of not influencing my mental faculties sounded like a positive claim.

As for the gadget’s physical characteristics, it is a small black box equipped with a switch and micro USB port on one side, adhesive tape underneath, and a blue LED light that sporadically blinks—a feature that’s likely to annoy law enforcement in the UK.

That blinking blue lamp is definitely a magnet for police attention around here.

Giving the device a fair trial, I let it sit in my vehicle overnight during a cold night.

Disappointingly, it accomplished nothing.

No signs of advanced electromagnetic technology at work.

On an interesting note, the solar panel did function correctly, recharging a small battery.

Indeed, the solar panel was operational.

I decided to dismantle the gadget, which proved to be rather simple. Inside, I found a small circuit board, a modest battery, a mini solar panel, an LED, and a chip responsible for both LED blinking and battery control.

There were no electron beams or sophisticated electromagnetic features. Rest assured, there's no hazard to cognitive processes.

Essentially, it's just a blinking LED inside a box, and the price for this curiosity is around $10.

Recommended Alternatives

For defrosting your car effectively, consider using a traditional scraper or a de-icer spray. If snow accumulation is an issue, investing in a quality snowbrush would be beneficial. For combatting window condensation inside your vehicle, an absorbent cloth is advisable, which can also be useful for home mirrors and glass.

You certainly don’t need a dubious gadget like the 'Shou.'