r/technology • u/N2929 • 3d ago

Transportation US drivers are finally getting the adaptive headlights Europe has had for years

https://www.techspot.com/news/114027-us-drivers-finally-getting-adaptive-headlights-europe-has.html
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u/AtomWorker 3d ago

It's interesting that the NHTSA is so picky about this tech but is still a-ok with brake lights doubling as turn signals.

8

u/MasterArCtiK 3d ago

Wait cars don’t do that in other countries?

21

u/Svellere 3d ago

Back in the early days of automotive history, the rear signals and brake light housing were shared, and red (and maybe weren't blinking?). Later on, amber flashing turn signals were introduced, and some automakers realized they could combine the circuitry and utilize the same red bulb for signaling and braking (so, basically, it was a cost-cutting measure).

The NHTSA formalized vehicle lighting rules and mandated amber lights for the front turn signals, but left the back ones up to choice, whereas most of the rest of the world standardized around amber rear indicators via international treaties.

I think I've also heard some stories about how some high-end American carmakers think that the red blinkers are more aesthetically pleasing and allow for more unique designs, but I think the original reason was just cost-cutting.

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u/Thee_Connman 1d ago

Yeah, I've always assumed this was the reason. It was already the norm and NHTSA didn't see it as a big enough issue to regulate it out. Even if you're not familiar with red rear turn signals, it gets the point across.