Fernlichts

Fernlichts are high-beam headlights used on motor vehicles to illuminate the road at greater distance than low-beam headlights. The term derives from German, with “Fern” meaning distant and “Licht” meaning light. In automotive contexts, the English term “high beams” is commonly used; Fernlichts may be referenced in German-language texts to denote this lighting configuration.

Operation and usage: High beams are typically engaged on unlit or poorly lit roads to reveal objects and hazards at a longer range. They are designed to shine a brighter and whiter light than low beams. Most vehicles switch between high and low beams via a headlight stalk or switch, and many modern cars include automatic high-beam systems (Fernlichtautomatik) that dip the beam when sensors detect oncoming traffic or nearby vehicles.

Technology and variants: High beams can be provided by halogen, xenon/HID, LED, or laser headlamps. Some vehicles use projector-based optics or multiple segments to control the beam pattern and reduce glare. Advanced systems, such as adaptive high-beam assist, selectively adjust intensity or direction to improve illumination while avoiding glare for other road users.

Regulation and safety: High beams are subject to national or international standards that govern brightness, beam pattern, color, and alignment. Operators should use Fernlichts where permitted and appropriate, and switch to low beams in the presence of oncoming traffic, when following another vehicle, or in fog, heavy rain, or snow, as high beams can cause glare and reduce visibility for others.

See also: low beams, automatic headlight systems, beam pattern regulations.