Comment by caseyy
> I don’t think the idea for using transparent conductive materials as an antenna existed before
Many slightly older cars (2000-2020) had antennas embedded in glass. The idea is solid. Antennas in glass are protected, so they can be very thin and almost invisible, more aesthetically pleasing than a shark fin or a rod on the roof.
I would consider this an aesthetic choice, not so much engineering. A small antenna sticking out on the roof solves the engineering problem adequately.
They still do, I believe. Cars usually have several antennas embedded in e.g. the rear glass. Even something like the FM radio often has 3+ antennas in different locations and the receiver switches between them to get the best signal. One shark fin isn't enough.