Magna creates custom LED headlights with injection molded lenses

Canadian auto parts maker Magna International Inc. is introducing a new line of headlights which combine multiple high-power light-emitting diodes (LEDs) with injection molded lenses to improve forward visibility for drivers and provide customized styling options for automakers.

Called D-Optic, the headlamps will make their market debut on the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse.

The 2018 Chevrolet Traverse is the first vehicle to feature Magna’s D-Optic LED headlamps.

In a statement, Aurora, Ont.-based Magna described D-Optic lighting as “unique for automotive applications because it is scalable and is custom-developed for a vehicle’s specific shape and styling.” LEDs and lenses can be added or subtracted to suit each unique design.

“Automakers are looking for ways to differentiate vehicle styling and also incorporate the latest in performance and efficiency,” said John O’Hara, president of Magna Closures and Mirrors. “Our lighting group is excited to launch D-Optic on the all-new Traverse after working closely with the vehicle team at Chevrolet to create a custom solution.”

D-Optic lenses come in four unique prescriptions, Magna said, each one dedicated to specific performance characteristics, and this allows automakers to tailor overall lamp performance to their own preference.

Magna said its multiple LED light source provides 60 per cent energy-consumption improvement compared to halogen and a 40 per cent improvement compared to high-intensity discharge lights.

D-Optic was developed and is manufactured by Magna at its automotive lighting facility in Plymouth, Mich.