Facts and myths – impact on visibility, eye fatigue, real data
In recent years, there has been a very dynamic development of LED technology in relation to automotive lighting. We are talking here about both factory installations and the aftermarket. As a result, the topic of road safety is becoming increasingly important, and with it the impact of LED lighting on safety.
As is often the case in such situations, there is a growing amount of conflicting information on internet forums and in conversations. Below, I will attempt to address the most common facts and myths related to LED lighting.
One of the topics that generates the most heated discussion is the issue of the colour (colour temperature) of LED light itself. It is often claimed that the white light emitted by LEDs tires the eyes more quickly and is less comfortable for drivers. This is one of the most frequently repeated myths. The colour temperature of LEDs used in automotive lighting, regardless of whether we are talking about factory installations or kits for converting traditional lighting to LED, uses diodes whose emitted light ranges from 5000 to 6000K. This colour is optimal for human eye perception at night. The luminous flux in this temperature range is closer to natural daylight than traditional halogen lighting (3000K), allowing drivers to recognise obstacles and road signs more quickly, which directly improves safety. This is confirmed by studies conducted by IIHS, DEKRA and BASt, among others, as well as tests in which drivers reported less fatigue during long night-time driving compared to halogen lights. In addition, LEDs have another advantage over traditional halogen lighting, namely instant switching on. From the moment they are switched on, they shine at full power, which is crucial for headlights, brake lights, indicators and adaptive safety systems. This significantly reduces the reaction time of other drivers, e.g. in the event of sudden braking.
In the media, it is often claimed that LEDs dazzle other drivers. Of course, this is not true. It is true that LEDs can be dazzling after replacement if cheap, low-quality replacements are used in halogen headlights and if they are poorly adjusted, which is why it is recommended to adjust the lights after installation. Factory-fitted LED systems and replacements from leading manufacturers on the market have strictly controlled light distribution, which avoids such unpleasant surprises.
Finally, one more issue should be considered, namely the service life of LED lighting. It is often claimed that LEDs are eternal and never fail. Unfortunately, this is not true either. The average service life of this type of lighting is estimated at 20-30 thousand hours, but this is influenced by several factors. First of all, LEDs gradually lose their brightness over time (so-called luminance degradation). In addition, operating conditions such as high temperature, humidity or unstable voltage can affect durability, leading to damage to electronic components (e.g. the controller).
