The US War Department released this video "Winterization Kits For Automotive Vehicles" when electric windshield wipers were noteworthy features, and after watching it I don't think I'm liable to take new-car technology for granted ever again.

These guys were lighting engine heaters with giant matches and using string-drawn tarps adjust intakes! The 2014 Toyota 4Runner I just drove had a button to heat the windshield wipers when they're icy... sure makes me feel like a pansy.