LED lighting revolution slowed by regulations

Some of the brightest new technology for cars involves lighting, such as high-intensity LED headlights, but lagging regulatory approval is leaving U.S. drivers in the dark.Motorists in Europe and elsewhere, however, are getting the new systems. "It's really a revolution," says Alistair Hill, a contributing technical editor for IHS Automotive who just did a research report on lighting.Volvo announced last week that three models — the S60 sedan, V60 wagon, and XC60 crossover — will get a headlight system in Europe this spring that lets drivers use high beams without blinding other drivers. But "Active High-Beam Control" still needs government approval before it can come to the U.S., says Volvo spokesman Jawanza Keita.
Germany's Audi and BMW have similar technologies ready to deploy, but are waiting as they deal with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. "We're in dialogue with NHTSA about how it works and the advantages it offers," says Brad Stertz, an Audi spokesman. "It's a case where the technology moves quickly and the regulation tends to move slowly."LEDs and organic LEDs (OLEDs), which allow lighting in flexible shapes, are opening new possibilities. Audi, for instance, says it could use OLEDs turn the entire rear of a car into a lighted surface. LEDs also save fuel by putting out more light with less energy.
The government has embraced new lighting technology before -- at one time, all headlights had to be round; now creative uses of xenon and halogen lights are common.A new champion of solar-powered stadiums.And it has allowed experiments: Mercedes-Benz says NHTSA granted a 2008 to 2010 pilot test on two models of brake lights that flash in panic braking.NHTSA said in a statement that it's "encouraged by the advancements" in lighting, is considering lighting rules changes and is working with SAE International, the auto industry's engineers group, to study the new technologies. "The advancements in lighting technology, electronics, and the use of cameras and sensor information are allowing manufacturers and suppliers to develop innovative projects that were just not possible with sealed beam and bulb technology," said NHTSA.Active High-Beam Control uses a camera to spot oncoming cars or cars ahead. Then it shades the high beam from those cars so their drivers aren't blinded. It also recognizes motorcycles. While the technology has to wait for U.S. approval, Volvo has been quick to bring other new safety systems not held up by regulations,such as a new bicyclist detection and automatic braking system for 2014 models.