Mercedes Benz Adaptive Headlight System Provides Intelligent High Beams

Anyone who spends some time on backroads with moderate traffic will really appreciate the new adaptive high beam assist from Mercedes-Benz. The system automatically adjusts head light output to maximize visibility for the Mercedes driver and also oncoming traffic.

Instead of just switching between high and low beams, the system also actively aims the head lights to project the maximum amount of light without blinding other drivers on the road. A camera located in the rearview mirror will detect the head lights of oncoming vehicles or the tail lights of cars you are approaching and adjust the aim of the head lights automatically.

The dynamic lighting system will aim the driver's side head light closer to the ground as traffic approaches and then slowly bring the light back up for maximum forward visibility once the vehicle has past. A brief demonstration of this system in a darkened arena showed how gradually the head lights change aim while a car approaches. By gradually changing the aim of the lights, drivers' eyes never have to adjust to a great change in the amount of light and the temporary loss of night vision that results from switching between high and low beams doesn't happen. There are two distinct modes to maximize the effectiveness of the system; one for highways and one for country roads.

More common features like adaptive headlights that follow the steering wheel's angle in a turn and cornering lights which only turn on during low speed turns are also included. Look for the new country and motorway modes to appear on the next Mercedes E-class coupe and sedan as well as the 2009 S-class.

Posted in: Mercedes