Bending light

Lighting technology is becoming more intelligent and adaptive as OEMs and suppliers develop systems that are more integrated into vehicle electronics systems for greater performance and safety.

As with most other areas of passenger-car vehicle engineering, forward lighting is undergoing major changes in technology as a result of electronics. One of the most interesting new lighting technologies being developed by automotive OEMs and their suppliers is adaptive or advanced front-lighting system (AFS). The innovative approach to lighting technology is being driven not only by advancements is electronics, but also by European legislation intended to allow systems that provide a quantum leap in performance and safety.

AFS legislation is scheduled for final approval in 2003 by the relevant European Union regulatory bodies. The automotive industry embarked upon this venture in 1993 when nine manufacturers of cars, lamps, and headlights set up the AFS Eureka Project. Today 23 companies are working jointly on this technology, according to Rainer Neumann, European Lighting Manager, Visteon Corp.