Laser light technology arriving in 2014

This autumn with the launch of the i8, BMWBMWGermany, 1918 > present87 models
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will become the first manufacturer worldwide to offer a production vehicle equipped with headlamps featuring a completely new laser light technology. The BMW i8 will not only be making automotive history as a plug-in hybrid sports car, but also as the first production vehicle to incorporate this state-of-art technology.

The laser light technology will be available on the i8 as an optional but it ensures  a high beam range of up to 600 metres. This means that the already high illumination range of the modern LED high beam is doubled. The new laser technology also allows an increase of efficiency by a further 30 percent, compared to LED technology.

A highly intensive and efficient form of light.

In addition to lowering power requirement, BMW Laser Light illuminates the road ahead with a significantly higher light intensity without heating up the surrounding area. Laser diodes are ten times smaller than conventional light diodes. They help to save not only available installation space inside the headlamp, but also weight.

The light of a laser headlamp is extremely bright, similar to daylight, which is perceived by the human eye as pleasant. Several high-performance diodes emit a strongly bundled beam via special lenses onto a fluorescent phosphorus substance inside the headlamp. This substance transforms the beam into a very bright white light that is ten times more intensive than conventional light sources.

Due to their highly intensive and virtually ideal beam properties, laser diodes render the overall system even more efficient. In conjunction with the camera-aided digital high-beam assistant, dazzling of oncoming traffic or vehicles ahead is reliably eliminated.

Better visibility and enhanced safety when driving at night.

With the sum of its properties, BMW Laser Light is the ideal light source for the main beam of a vehicle. It combines performance and safety with a high level of efficiency and compactness. Its outstanding range facilitates improved illumination and even better visibility when driving in the dark. As a result, it ensures a more relaxed and comfortable driving experience and enhanced road safety.

Over the next years the laser light technology availability will be expanded to other BMW models as a standard feature.