BMW uses Osram lighting technology in i8 plug-in hybrid

Munich, Germany – BMW has selected Osram to supply laser headlights for its i8 plug-in hybrid sports car.

The i8 will be the first production vehicle in the world with laser headlights light when sales begin in Europe in the second half of 2014. U.S. versions will have more traditional headlights as regulations do not yet allow for laser systems.

"As an integrated system supplier, we are combining our expertise from the laser and automotive lighting sectors and impressively emphasizing our leading position in all automotive lighting technologies," says Hans-Joachim Schwabe, CEO of the Specialty Lighting Business Division at Osram.

In developing the laser light, Osram was able to combine experience in semiconductor technologies with its lighting expertise. The laser diodes are made by Osram subsidiary Osram Opto Semiconductors, while the Special Lightign Divison designe the laser module.

When it announced the $136,000 i8 last year, BMW said the headlights generate a pure-white, extremely bright light that is pleasant to the eye. Because of the inherent efficiency of lasers, the headlights use less than half the energy LEDs, a major issue with electrically driven vehicles where every bit of energy savings translates to longer driving ranges. Laser lighting generates approximately 170 lumens/W compared to 100 lumens/W with LED lights.

LED light sources are already offering new ways to differentiate vehicles visually through individual headlight design that enhances brand recognition. Laser technology is the next step this trend. With high luminance that is significantly beyond that of any other light source available today, headlights can be designed even smaller than before, giving designers greater freedom in designing the front ends of vehicles.

Source: Osram