Ford is developing a promising new lighting tech which will make night-driving a lot safer for everyone.
Developed at Ford’s European Research and Innovation Centre in Aachen, Germany, the Camera-Based Advanced Front Lighting System uses GPS info where available and a front-mounted camera for better illuminating bends and dips.
The camera then stores the info into the navigation system so when next the driver uses the same road, the headlights will already know where to point. The system also includes an infrared camera mounted on the front grille, scanning for people and animals at a range of up to 120 meters.
When the system detects a potential hazard, two special LED lamps next to the fog lights illuminate the object for the driver to see. The system also displays it on the screen inside the cabin, marked in a yellow or red frame, depending on the proximity of the object.
“Camera-Based Advanced Front Lighting can help make it easier for the driver to travel at night in unfamiliar surroundings, and to more easily see unexpected hazards. At roundabouts, for example, our system helps the driver to clearly see the exits – and check if cyclists and pedestrians are crossing the road,” said Michael Koherr, research engineer, Lighting Systems, Ford of Europe. “Spot Lighting makes potential hazards in the road ahead more easily visible to the driver – whether that is a pedestrian, a cyclist, or even a large animal.”
Ford expects to equip its models with this new headlight tech “in the near term”.
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