The new Hyundai Sonata’s hidden lighting looks like an ordinary chrome molding, but it’s actually a lighting element configured to provide the DRL function. It’s a novel way of hiding the LED lamp in a chrome garnish. It works a bit like the Philips Silver Vision signal bulbs (chrome when off, amber when on): the inside of the DRL lens is treated to make it look like chrome when the LEDs behind it aren’t lit.
A gradient effect was added by varying the laser cutting density for each area. Because of the laser cutting method, the light radiates through the apparent chrome finish. The trick: fine holes in the chrome coating layer, made with a laser. The graduated effect, which darkens with distance from the headlamp, was implemented by adjusting the hole density. With this new technique, Hyundai designers were able to connect the side chrome garnish and the headlamp, for a distinct, integral, tidy design signature.
And the new Hyundai Tucson evinces the exterior design of last year’s Vision T concept almost exactly. The key to completing this unconventional design is the hidden-jewel front lights, which achieve an organic connection between the radiator grill and the lights.
Here again, the secret is “hidden lighting”. Sometimes it’s a radiator grille…sometimes it’s a lamp!
