Ford develops new glare-free high beam technology

Ford has developed new glare-free high beam technology that enables drivers to take full advantage of their headlights’ capability without affecting oncoming vehicles.

The headlight technology features a camera mounted to the windscreen that senses the headlights and rear lights of other vehicles on the road, including cyclists, up to 800 metres away. The headlight system then angles the light away in order to avoid temporarily blinding other road users.

Developed by a global team of Ford engineers and supplier partners, the technology works alongside Ford’s adaptive LED headlights and its auto high beam system. This system adjusts headlight beam angle and intensity according to speed, ambient light, steering angle, distance to the vehicle in front and windscreen wiper activation.

Glare-free high beam is available now for the new S-Max and Galaxy. The technology will also be offered on the recently unveiled Edge SUV.

Speaking to Autocar UK, Ford said the technology is being made available on its largest cars first, with a view to adding it to its smaller models in the future. However, nothing has yet been confirmed.

Ford of Europe research engineer Michael Koherr said: “We found that some drivers are so concerned about dazzling other road users that they don’t use high beam at all. Ford’s glare-free high beam technology can remove that stress for drivers and help maximise the use of high beam – without causing any distraction to other road users and softly transitioning between settings to help the driver’s eyes adjust faster to changing quantities of light.”

Ford is also in the process of developing lighting technology that improves visibility at roundabouts, as well as at stop and give way signs.

Audi uses a similar system in its latest laser headlights, but Ford's version could introduce the technology to more affordable car segments.