The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the world’s first production vehicle that utilises only light emitting diodes (LED) instead of conventional bulbs. A total of around 500 LEDs are used, with 56 LEDs in each headlamp, 35 LEDs for each tail-lamp and approximately 300 LEDs for the interior lighting. Benz made the switch because LEDs use less power but give better lighting performance and control. For example, the intensity of the rear brake lamps is reduced at night to prevent startling road users behind the vehicle. Expect LEDs to feature on even city cars in future as the cost of the technology plummets.
