Americans have been complaining of glare from HID headlamps since the first ones appeared in the region in the early 1990s—autolevelling is not required, and few American vehicles are subject to periodic headlamp aim inspection or adjustment—but new research shows that Xenon lights are quite helpful to the drivers of cars so equipped.
A new study by Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute’s Lighting Research Center shows HID headlights allow drivers to see objects, such as a pedestrian, in or near the road up to 10 metres earlier than with traditional halogen headlights. That means they have that much more of a safety margin, or distance in which to take action.
The researchers acknowledge HID glare complaints and suggests that trouble may be due to improper aim. The researchers cite a recent study finding that 75% of all headlights in America are not aligned correctly, causing them to shine in an oncoming driver’s eyes. “If aligned properly, the oncoming driver won’t see a difference in glare when comparing HID and halogen headlamps.”
More information after a presentation of Rensselaer LRC at ISAL end of September at Darmstadt
