Selected by Marelli, mobility technology supplier to the automotive sector CES 2024 In Las Vegas, we unveiled our LeanLight headlight and rear light concept. Compared to traditional automotive lighting, this product has up to 20% fewer parts, 20% less weight, and 6 kg less CO.2 emissions.
Systems based on Marelli’s Lean platform are primarily pre-developed, leaving room for automakers to customize certain features. This module-based platform approach targets entry-level vehicles, brands and trim levels and is designed to appeal to budget-conscious consumers and fleet buyers.
The introduction of LeanLight’s new injection molding process contributes to reduced weight and energy consumption, and a newly developed surface treatment solution eliminates the need for chemical coatings, further contributing to sustainability benefits.
LeanDisplay colors are displayed
In addition to the LeanLight system, Marelli simultaneously announced its LeanDisplay portfolio at CES 2024. This system offers advanced local dimming performance at a much lower price point in addition to an improved sustainability footprint. 40% weight reduction and improved CO2 This achievement was achieved by adopting a design-for-manufacturing approach, reducing components by 60%, optimizing backlight technology through a combination of LEDs and proprietary lenses, and localizing the supply chain.
Laser-illuminated rear light wins innovation award
Marelli brought another innovation to CES 2024 in the form of the Red Laser & Fiber Optic Rear Lamp (pictured above), which won the CES 2024 Innovation Award. Tier I claims to be the first lighting manufacturer to develop and bring to market red laser technology combined with rear lighting capabilities. To produce the lamp, Marelli combined a red laser diode with an optical sidelight fiber within the laser. The result is a very thin lighting line, giving OEMs the flexibility to create unique and stylish brand signatures.
Marelli developed this technology for a German luxury car manufacturer with very specific requirements. The automaker wanted a unique nighttime look using thin hanging light guides less than 1 mm in diameter. The state-of-the-art light guide could not be used because it has a diameter of approximately 6 mm, making it aesthetically unsuitable for the application. Optical fibers can use light to achieve different shapes and curves, allowing for greater design flexibility. It also guarantees uniformity that cannot be achieved with large plastic light guides.
Decorative fibers take up very little space and give the appearance of multiple illuminated lines. Fiber can be thought of as a standard component that can be reused in different designs and locations all around the vehicle.
The combination of laser and fiber optics is truly unique in that it supports styling flexibility while being sustainable through power efficiency and weight reduction. Achieving the same illumination and uniformity using LEDs as a light source would consume three times as much power. Laser technology also allows for a “speckle” effect along the fibers, giving it a unique look never before seen on rear lamps.