Headlamps that follow Steering Input

95

Now Implemented!

Description

Adaptive headlights shift the headlights to follow the road based on the speed, yaw, and amount of steering input.

Competitive/Pricing/Notes

Few cars offer this feature. The Jaguar XK and Lexus LS460 offer this as standard equipment.

Status

As of 2021 adaptive headlights are now standard on all models.  They were first introduced on the Model S with the Premium Upgrades Package after the 2016 refresh.


Category: CY3XS Applies to:
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     Created 3-Dec-2012
Moderator
34,305

9 Comments

The Tucker had a light in the center front that followed steering, and look what that got them.
    Created 1-Dec-2015
My 2008 BMW has this feature. It is nice to have, but the headlamps are complex, thus expensive. They turn mechanically (electrically powered) at +-15 degrees, following the road. Someone noted above that they only turn to one side (left). That is not true. When stopped, they only turn to the right, in my case, as to not blind oncoming traffic in case you are stopped on the side of the road. The Lexus above might turn only to the left when stopped as it's a Japanese car (or the adaptive light system might be defective). When driving, they turn in both directions, lighting the place where the car will go (based on speed, steering angle and possible other sensors).

If Tesla decides to implement this, it will only be possible on newly manufactured cars and will double the price of the Xenon headlamps.
    Created 30-Jan-2014
Model S doesn't have adaptive headlights, true.  But the additional light that comes on when the wheel is turned enough to either side goes a little bit there.
    Created 30-Dec-2013
AndyM
3,995
I have a 2007 Lexus LS430 with the feature. Works only when turning left and not t low speeds. Useful.
    Created 16-Jun-2013
Related item: High-beam assistant
    Created 27-Mar-2013
My model S turns on additional lights when turning, while not as bright as a headlight it is quite useful.
    Created 27-Feb-2013
Sorry, but the Model S does not have adaptive headlights. The tech package does include "Xenon headlamps".

I have adaptive headlights on my Lexus, and it is a mildly nice to have.  I only occasionally drive on completely dark curvy roads in the country, where it has more value.  That said, I wouldn't pay anything extra for it myself.  I had one headlight damaged and it cost over $1000 for the replacement. I suspect that's in part due to the complexity of the headlight assembly.
    Created 13-Jan-2013
Moderator
34,305
My understanding - car has this already with the tech package.
    Created 8-Jan-2013
when making a turn, an extra light turns to where you are turning, I think... found it on a forum
    Created 6-Jan-2013