BMW i7 Swarovski Crystal Headlights

Image: BMW Group

ZKW has developed a new headlight system in cooperation with Swarovski and BMW. Four precisely cut crystals on each side of the “Iconic Glow” headlights are underlain by individually controlled LEDs. These support the daytime running and indicator lights, also utilized during the “Welcome and Goodbye light staging” functions. In the lower part of the front of the BMW i7, high and low beams are discreetly positioned using ZKW LED matrix technology. The crystal light is manufactured at a Slovakian site in Krusovce, and the crystals come from Austria.

In order to make the crystals look like a grown crystal rather than jewelry, a special setting had to be developed. Special software was developed for the light functions of the “Iconic Glow” headlamp, which enables unique effects.

The unique, luminous appearance of the “Iconic Glow” headlamp clearly stands out from the well-known light graphics. The precision is in the glass material, which can be processed more finely and precisely than plastic.

ZKW has equipped the main headlight with adaptive matrix LED technology for low and high beam as well as glare-free high beam assist (BMW Selective Beam) as standard.

All crystal elements are resistant to UV light, heat, scratches, and acids.

More information is available here.

Images: BMW Group

David Shiller

David Shiller is the Publisher of LightNOW, and Senior Business Development Consultant at Capacity Consulting, a North American consulting firm providing business development services to advanced lighting manufacturers. The ALA awarded David the Pillar of the Industry Award. David has been co-chair of the ALA’s Engineering Committee since 2010. David established MaxLite’s OEM component sales into a multi-million dollar division. He invented GU24 lamps while leading ENERGY STAR lighting programs for the US EPA. David has been published in leading lighting publications, including LD+A, enLIGHTenment Magazine, LEDs Magazine, and more.

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