New headlamps are changing designs, improving fuel-economy

Audi R8
Audi R8

Often taken for granted by drivers, the headlight has been rapidly evolving with new technologies that make it more than just a lamp, but a distinct design feature. Premium vehicles, such as those made by Audi, have shown us the design possibilities that LED lights offer, while the use of xenon HID lamps are rapidly expanding in the luxury and near-luxury segments.

Both lights emit a much more natural light that simulates daylight much better than traditional halogen bulbs.

According to IHS Automotive, global LED headlamp concentration is still expected to be minimal, with less than 100,000 units in 2013, in a 20 million vehicle market. Fourth-generation halogen lamps are expected to continue to dominate the mass market for the foreseeable future, due to their cost effectiveness and reliability.

The whole cache with LEDs comes in the fact that they make it much easier for manufacturers to effectuate design change. “The basic shapes of vehicles have not changed much in the past 15 years, but in details like lighting you can particularly see design progress,” one automotive analyst said.

– By: Stephen Calogera

Source: Automotive News