Audi is introducing advanced adaptive beam headlights to the US market with its Q9 SUV, marking the end of decades-old regulations that limited headlight technology. The new system uses multipixel LEDs to selectively dim portions of the beam, providing better illumination while reducing glare for other drivers. This technology has been common in Europe and Japan for years but was previously restricted in the US by outdated regulations.
Background
US automotive lighting regulations have remained largely unchanged since the 1960s, limiting headlights to simple low and high beams while other markets advanced with adaptive lighting technology. This has created a significant gap between US and international automotive lighting capabilities.
- Source
- Ars Technica
- Published
- May 21, 2026 at 09:00 PM
- Score
- 6.0 / 10