With the development of its new HD matrix headlights, Porsche is sending a strong signal of its focus on performance and brand design: “It is now possible for the first time to bring the four-point lighting graphics of the daytime running lights to the night as well,” says Porsche Designer Heinz Redlich. The innovative lighting technology is ushering in a new chapter in the Porsche light strategy.
The HD matrix technology offers designers new possibilities for the development of future headlight generations. Light design, after all, has traditionally played a fundamental role in the Porsche brand identity. Earlier sports car generations were identifiable as Porsche models at night by the positioning of the headlights and position lights. “We have continually refined this light signature both graphically and technologically,” explains the designer. These classic graphics reached their zenith with the use of dual LED light guides for the position lights in the Turbo models.
A new era of Porsche light design began with the 918 Spyder in 2013. The four-point daytime running lights were integrated in all-LED headlights for the first time. This unmistakable distinguishing feature of the super sports car would become the model for all Porsche vehicles developed thereafter. “With the HD matrix headlight, we have now taken two major development steps at once: both technologically and in terms of the design,” says a satisfied Heinz Redlich.
The new light tunnel is an indispensable tool for the further development of the new technology. “It offers us the critical ability to observe our lights from a distance irrespective of the daylight and weather conditions,” says Heinz Redlich. The only problem: the LED light sources are very small; the gaps and brightness are slightly deceiving when viewed at short distances. “The light signature in the rear in particular appears totally different at a greater distance than up close,” explains the designer. “The 100-metre stretch of the light tunnel allows us to assess the night design under real conditions at an early stage.”
Thanks to the HD matrix technology, future Porsche models will now be clearly identifiable by their light signatures at night as well.
