Although LEDs will not be approved in the European region as a light source for headlights until 2008 at the earliest, Audi has applied for an exemption that will allow it to use LED technology before then. There are no such restrictions in North America, where Lexus plans to launch a vehicle with LED headlights in 2007.
Audi describes the light unit as having a design reminiscent of an open pine cone. Reflector shells arranged concentrically one behind the other, in conjunction with a powerful LED projection system, concentrate the light from one multi-chip LED emitter, producing a high-luminosity, uniform driving light.
The daytime running lights delimit the underside of the headlight as narrow strips of light – delivering distinctive signals and providing an innovative visual touch.
Rear lights, including a third brake light strip running across virtually the full width of the roof, are also implemented with LEDs. An additional feature is distinctive, indirect engine compartment lighting that also uses white LEDs.