frontlys

Frontlys is a term used in several Scandinavian languages to refer to the headlights at the front of a motor vehicle. The word combines front and lys (light) and appears in Norwegian and Danish usage, with cognates in Swedish. In English-language contexts, the term may be encountered in discussions of vehicle lighting.

Purpose and scope: Frontlys provide illumination of the road ahead and signal the vehicle's presence to other road users. They are distinct from rear lights by position and function. Modern frontlys typically include a low-beam setting for normal driving and a high-beam setting for extended visibility, along with features such as daytime running lights in some designs.

Technology and variants: Frontlys may use halogen, xenon (HID), or light-emitting diode (LED) modules. LED frontlys are common in newer vehicles due to energy efficiency and compact form. Many systems incorporate adaptive or matrix headlights that adjust beam direction or intensity in response to speed, steering, weather, or oncoming traffic, and some include cornering or automatic high-beam functions.

Regulation and maintenance: Vehicle lighting is governed by national and international standards that specify photometric performance, alignment, and color. Proper maintenance includes lens cleaning, moisture control, timely bulb or module replacement, and periodic beam alignment checks to ensure safe operation.

See also: Headlight, Automotive lighting, Daytime running lights, Adaptive headlights.