Audi introduces laser high beams in the Audi R8 LMX
The Audi R8 LMX becomes the first production car in the world to feature laser high beam technology. This would enhance the range of the headlight which is ideal for a car like the R8 LMX. Audi has been revolutionising headlight technology since 2008, with the introduction of all-LED headlamps in the Audi R8 for the first time. Again in 2012, Audi introduced dynamic indicators, also in the R8. Just last year they introduced Matrix LED headlamps in the Audi A8. The Audi R8 LMX supercar is equipped with a V10 engine developing 570bhp of power. The sprint from 0 to 100kmph takes a mere 3.4 seconds and Audi boasts a fuel efficiency figure of 7.75kmpl.
The new laser high beams feature one laser module per headlight, generating a cone of light with twice the range of all‑LED headlight. Each module comprises four high-power laser diodes, with a diameter of just 300 micrometers. These diodes generate a blue laser beam with a wavelength of 450 nanometers. A phosphor converter transforms this into roadworthy white light that enables the driver to recognize contrast more easily and help prevent fatigue. The laser spot, which is active at speeds of 60kmph and above, supplements the LED high beam in the R8 LMX and greatly enhances visibility and safety. An intelligent camera based sensor system detects other road users and actively adjusts the light pattern to exclude them.
“Audi has long dominated the most important 24-hour race. In addition to the outstanding TDI drive technology, a maximum light yield gives our pilots a major advantage, and with night racing in particular is a key factor to our success,” says Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg. “The transfer of the laser headlight to the Audi R8 LMX underscores our leading position in lighting technology. The safety benefit this provides to the customer truly represents Vorsprung durch Technik,” says AUDI AG’s Board Member for Development.
The new R8 LMX comes with an exclusive customised paint finish, Ara Blue with crystal effect. The flicks on the sides, engine bay cover, exterior mirror housings, side blades, rear wing and the diffuser, are all made of matte finished carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP). On the inside, folding bucket seats are covered in Fine Nappa leather with Sepang Blue diamond pattern. The black Alcantara headlining and black Fine Nappa leather door trim panels take up the Sepang Blue diamond pattern of the bucket seats. Matte carbon has been used on the covers of the centre tunnel console and the hand brake lever, on the inlays in the doors and the arc around the cockpit.
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