Fernlichtregelung

Fernlichtregelung, also known as automatic high beam or adaptive high beam, is a driver assistance system designed to automatically control the vehicle's high-beam headlights. The primary goal of this system is to improve visibility for the driver at night or in low-light conditions without causing glare to other road users.

The system typically works by using a camera mounted behind the windshield, often near the rearview mirror. This camera monitors the road ahead, detecting other vehicles, streetlights, and sometimes even pedestrians. When the system determines that high beams can be used safely without dazzling oncoming traffic or drivers ahead, it automatically activates them. Conversely, if the camera detects another vehicle's headlights or taillights, or a strong light source like street lighting, it will automatically dim the high beams or switch back to low beams to prevent glare.

The implementation and capabilities of fernlichtregelung systems can vary between different vehicle manufacturers. Some systems offer basic on/off functionality, while more advanced versions, often referred to as adaptive or matrix high beams, can selectively dim specific portions of the light beam to create "shadows" around other vehicles, allowing the rest of the road to remain illuminated by high beams. This adaptive functionality provides a more continuous and optimized use of high-beam lighting.

The benefits of fernlichtregelung include enhanced driver comfort and safety by providing better illumination of the road and potential hazards, while simultaneously reducing the need for the driver to manually switch between high and low beams. This allows the driver to focus more on steering and situational awareness.