Smart lamps

Headlights which dip when they detect other cars will go on sale within two years. That's the claim from technicians at lamp maker Hella

Auto Express Car Reviews

09th April 2007

They have created 'smart' lights which can tell when vehicles - plus cyclists and pedestrians - are about to be lit by a full beam, and lower their angle so there is no chance of dazzling them.

The clever system uses a camera and sensor to continually scan up to 800 metres ahead of the car. When it detects a vehicle, it cuts the beam length by swivelling the lamp and reflector downwards without reducing the level of brightness.

Inventors say the same system can be used to improve night-time visibility on hilly roads. The sensors will always detect where the tarmac is, and keep the beam pointed directly at it to ensure it doesn't rise and fall with the nose of the car.

Clusters of LEDs are also being tested in the new headlamps. These would allow the pattern of the beam to be adjusted automatically while driving to highlight important features - so the same lamp unit could illuminate a roadside sign while staying dipped on the tarmac ahead.