Audi is teaming up with Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Volkswagen and GM to lobby US law makers to update a 1968 regulation requiring vehicles to have switch to change their headlights from high beams to low beams. The headlight technology has advanced tremendously over the years from sealed beam headlights introduced in the 1940's to halogen in the 60's and 70's, xenon lights in the 90's to the most recent light-emitting diode (or LED) headlights.
As it relates to technology not only has the type of bulb changed, however, but how the headlights are controlled. Headlights on some cars, for example, can follow your turns. Audi has recently developed a new Matrix Beam headlight, which is the crux of the conflict with current US law. The new Matrix Beam headlights basically allow the driver to always leave their high beams on because the headlights will automatically respond and adjust their brightness based on lighting conditions. The car has cameras and other sensors installed to control the headlights based on what is ahead of the driver.
I for one welcome this change on all cars, as there is nothing that drives me crazier than when drivers forget to turn of their high beams.
The Matrix Beam headlight option will be available on the new Audi A8 and the option will cost around $3,000.00.
As it relates to technology not only has the type of bulb changed, however, but how the headlights are controlled. Headlights on some cars, for example, can follow your turns. Audi has recently developed a new Matrix Beam headlight, which is the crux of the conflict with current US law. The new Matrix Beam headlights basically allow the driver to always leave their high beams on because the headlights will automatically respond and adjust their brightness based on lighting conditions. The car has cameras and other sensors installed to control the headlights based on what is ahead of the driver.
I for one welcome this change on all cars, as there is nothing that drives me crazier than when drivers forget to turn of their high beams.
The Matrix Beam headlight option will be available on the new Audi A8 and the option will cost around $3,000.00.
Tags: Audi, BMW, GM, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Audi A8, Technology