First Full-LED headlamp for the Audi R8

anthony_fontanelle@yahoo.com (Anthony Fontanelle) — Tue, 3 Jun 2008 04:23:51 GMT

by Anthony Fontanelle
Tuesday, June 03, 2008

Audi introduced a strip-shaped fog lamp at the Detroit Auto Show in 2003. Follow which, the Audi Nuvolari Quattro featured the first ever full-LED headlamp at the Geneva Auto Show. The option will run at �3,590 (or $5,585 on the stateside), which is means too way expensive. Any person would look at R8 and go "Oh gentleman you didn't opt for the full-LED headlamps?" Well, unless checking out the car - then just make feel bad about not cashing out almost $6,000 for full-LED headlamps.

Effective immediately, the range of equipment available for the Audi R8 car parts at the present time also include the first full-LED headlamp. In addition to the daytime running light which now features 24 LEDs per headlamp, light-emitting diodes are also used for the turn signals, the low-beam and the high-beam headlights. The �3,590 option rounds out the list of equipments available for the high-tech, mid-engine sports car.

The earlier launch of LED technology at the front of the car required a waiver by the European Union. The prominent advantages are lower energy consumption and a color that more closely resembles daylight, provides greater contrast and is easier on the human eye. LEDs are also non-wearing, require a lower voltage, are compact and offer greater design freedom.

The new full-LED headlamp represents the pinnacle of Audi's lighting strategy. The use of LEDs already enjoys a long tradition. This innovative technology has previously been used in production car parts for tail light functions, brake lights and daytime running lights. Since early 2003, Audi has also used the semiconductor technology in a number of concept cars to implement some or all of the lighting functions at the front of the car.

The brand with the four rings first introduced a strip-shaped fog lamp at the Detroit Auto Show in 2003. That same year, the Audi Nuvolari Quattro showing the first full-LED headlamp was a highlight of the Geneva Auto Show. And the Le Mans Quattro a legitimate predecessor to the Audi R8 illuminated the Frankfurt night with LEDs on the eve of the 2003 Frankfurt Auto Show.

Additional concept cars and many refinements to the light source and headlamp geometry followed. This technological highlight is now available as an alternative for the Audi R8, where it joins other very well-known high-tech components such as the aluminum Audi Space Frame, ceramic brakes and the mid-mounted V8 engine with FSI technology.

About the Author

Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.

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