Audi to Offer Laser Lights in U.S.

Audi AG will bring its laser headlight technology to the U.S. on a limited-edition version of the 2017 model R8 supercar. The carmaker launched the technology in Europe two years ago.

In the U.S., the laser system will supplement the car’s LED high beams. Audi says this will allow them to meet U.S. safety standards, which they haven’t done in the past.

The lasers activate in certain conditions at vehicle speeds of more than 40 mph. The headlight modules contain four high-output laser diodes, which emit a blue light at the 450 nanometer wavelength. A phosphor converter transforms the blue laser beam into white light.

Audi says the laser high beams "greatly enhance” visibility by projecting a low, wide beam of light on the road. The application will be the first time Audi teams the laser lights with its dynamic front turn signals.

The laser beams initially will be launched on 25 specially equipped V-10-powered R8s. The $230,000 vehicle will be publicly unveiled later this month at the Los Angeles auto show. Other Audi models are expected to offer the technology in the future.