The Ford Quickclear has been around since the early 1990s on Escorts, Sierras and Mondeos.
It works very well. Only problem is that the earlier versions had an array of vertical wires running through the front screen, about 5-6mm apart from each other. Once you see them it's hard to dismiss them.
I assume later derivatives are better.
To be fair tho I start up my engine and let it (fast) idle with the climate control set with the demist/defrost mode set on.
By the time I have shifted the loose snow etc the glass is warm enough to resist further icing.
2-3 minutes idle when it's sub zero outside is going to help oil circulation before putting the engine under load.
Yes, I know we're told to start and drive straight off but that's more to avoid fuel waste than because it will damage the engine.
The worst thing for an engine apart from driving hard when cold is to switch off before it's fully warm. This leaves acidic gases and damp air inside, perfect recipe for corrosion.
As previously reported my car is showing minimal HC and CO even at 140,000 miles so I presume my practices aren't damaging. (And yes, I do use all the rev range frequently).