I took time during Auto China 2026 to talk and listen with Lin Shudong, Xingyu Vice General Manager, about lighting trends and what the company were showcasing. Mr Lin provided interesting information about how lighting has become an intelligent system in China, mixing design hardware and software to provide new features, with possible updates during the vehicle life cycle.
With SDV, lighting is integrating into the vehicle core ECU, and needs deep collaboration between OEMs and their tier-1s. SDV architecture with zone controllers are arriving in China, even on vehicles priced at C¥150,000 (~€18,000).
Lin Shudong explained how Xingyu has developed partnerships with the complete supplier chain – raw material, light source, semiconductors, software, tech companies – to develop faster and cover the full value chain.
Good examples include the collaboration with Huawei between DLP unit, Xingyu pixel module and ADB ECU, or the “iVISION Smart Eye Headlight” launched in 2025, with an automotive lighting‑dedicated AI computing chip provided by Ouye Semiconductor and a Chinese produced silicon‑based microLED light source provided by Lattice Power.
Xingyu also developed the full‑stack HD intelligent headlamps on the Nio ES8 and ES9, with microLED technology.
Talking about ISD and miniLEDs, Xingyu expect significant cost reductions within 2 – 3 years as chip localization improves and yields increase.
Feel free to read the complete interview at the end of the newsletter
