Hella LED Headlamp System Aims Beam Electronically

European versions of the Audi A8 large sedan are being offered with a headlamp system that uses electronically controlled LEDs rather than shutters to avoid glare for oncoming drivers.

The technology, developed by Hella KGaA Hueck & Co., uses a forward-looking camera to create glare-free "tunnels" in front of the car. The system enables the car to project ever-shifting multiple high beams that illuminate the road but not oncoming traffic.

Each Hella headlamp contains an array of 25 electronically controlled LEDs. The system can project a huge variety of light patterns without the need for the mechanical shutters or pivots used in other steerable headlamps.

The technology is able to detect multiple approaching vehicles and create "dark zones" for each while illuminating the areas between and adjacent to them. The system enables drivers to use their high beams continuously without blinding other drivers. Hella says the overall intensity of the lamps also can be adjusted to suit conditions.

Hella notes that earlier this month its system won an Automotive News PACE Award for innovation.