Best Product 88 of Hong Kong has released ice scrapers with plush-lined mitts and EVA grips.

Models feature rubber blades, bristle brushes, long handles and mitts. Exports target the midrange and high-end segments.

Mainland China and Hong Kong suppliers of ice scrapers are going beyond the basics in releasing designs that have greater versatility and user friendliness.

As steep material costs continue to push prices up, makers are adopting this strategy to secure a foothold in the upscale segment of Europe and North America.

Many of the latest releases come in modified constructions that enable them to perform functions other than ice scraping.

Normally flat, the blade edges are now being designed with teeth that can be used to break up thick sheets of frost.

Additional cleaning heads are also being integrated adjacent to or on the opposite end of the scraping blade. Among these are bristle brushes, which permit easy snow clearing, and rubber blades for removing water and ice debris.

Further, multipurpose models feature long shafts and foam-cushioned grips.

The handles measure more than 40cm in length and are therefore suitable for reaching headlights, and wide windshields and windows. Some can be extended beyond 100cm.

Companies are also tapping materials that meet the performance requirements of heavy-duty applications. ABS is commonly adopted for the blade because of its high hardness rating. The elasticity of PVC has made it a popular option for the handle.

On basic-function releases, the handles usually come in a glovelike enclosure. These fabric or synthetic leather mitts are added to keep the user’s hand warm and dry. The exterior is water-resistant while the lining can help retain heat.

	Model K2388 from Hong Kong's Kam Lee has a plastic scraper, rubber blade and bristle brush. The handle is made of PVC.

With their latest designs, suppliers are transforming ice scrapers into multipurpose tools that can be easily used for cleaning snow, frost, water and dust. When it comes to material choices, the capability to prevent breakage is the top priority.

In the mainland, functional and ergonomic upgrades are being implemented, pushing prices up by more than $8.

Hangzhou Edar International Co. Ltd has introduced designs with an ice scraper, bristle brush and foam-padded grip.

Measuring 55cm long, model 980038 features a 21.5x5.5cm brush. Its blade has a maximum width of 10.8cm.

The company’s 980076 ice scraper is fitted with a 26x4.8cm brush and a 13.5x10cm blade. The 92cm handle Model K2388 from Hong Kong’s can be extended up to 117.5cm.

Hangzhou Sunhold Co. Ltd has added a sponge sheath on the tip of the AC-0045 model. This enables users to scrape ice off smoothly without marring or scratching the vehicle surface.

The product has an aluminum handle and an ABS blade.

The company also manufactures ice scrapers in PS and PVC.

Model 100306 from Autoline International Trading Co. Ltd comes with a green, red, yellow or blue mitt. PP is used for the handle.

Ningbo Shimono Industry Co. Ltd equipped the R4001B model with a blue cotton mitt. This can be made of PS, PP or ABS.

Hong Kong suppliers are highlighting versatility in their aftermarket designs.

For promotional items, the emphasis is on user friendliness and aesthetics.

Kam Lee Metal & Plastic Fty Ltd has launched the K2388 model, which integrates a plastic scraper, rubber blade and bristle brush. The handle is 62cm long.

Another release, K230HBG, features a short but contoured handle that helps maximize each scraping motion. The blade’s edge has teeth for removing condensed frost.

To ensure durability, the company employs ABS for the heads and PVC for the handles.

The line, which targets the aftermarket, is exported to North America and the EU.

Best Product 88 HK Ltd’s latest designs include an acrylic ice scraper with a plush-lined mitt. For ABS models, the handles are cushioned with EVA.

Chan Dynasty Plastics Mfy Ltd adopts PS in its 83x53x3mm releases for the gifts and premiums segment. In terms of dimensions, these resemble standard credit cards. The scraping edges feature a jagged pattern.

The company also has a selection of models with PVC blades.

Suppliers are upgrading designs to help offset price increases triggered by the material cost inflation and the yuan’s appreciation.

In Hong Kong, quotes jumped 7 to 20 percent in past months and are expected to rise further throughout this year.

Currently, promotional designs start at $0.80 and aftermarket models go for $2.50.

Companies export the line largely to the midrange segment in Europe and the US. Japan is another key destination.

Mainland suppliers also plan to raise prices in coming months. At present, quotes begin at $2 and exceed $5.

Most makers are heading upmarket. This comes as cost and price pressures continue to limit profit potential in the low end.

Companies are catering primarily to North America and Europe. The aftermarket absorbs the majority of shipments, with the rest going to the gifts and premiums segment.