A front-facing camera fixed to the front of new Ford cars will detect oncoming cars and automatically dim bright lights appropriately.
The car manufacturer says its research shows the stress of having to toggle between lights at night, on poorly lit roads, causes some drivers not to use bright lights at all, for fear of blinding other drivers.
The new Glare-Free Highbeam blocks those rays that would otherwise shine in the eyes of other road-users.
The new feature makes the transition from bright headlights to dipped headlights smoother, enabling the eyes to adapt faster to the reduced quantity of light.
The Glare-Free Highbeam does not cut out completely, only in the areas which impair other road-users.
For example, if the camera detects a cyclist on the left side of the road, the system is only deactivated for that side of the road.
The windshield-mounted camera can also detect rear lights or head lamps behind the car. A shutter in the light beam will ensure these objects are not illuminated, preventing the driver from being dazzled by other vehicles.
The technology was developed by a global team of Ford engineers and supplier partners. Testing included a purpose-built light simulation area and test drives in night-time conditions around the world.
Only new Ford S-MAX and Ford Galaxy cars will come with the Glare-Free Highbeam. The technology will also be available on the forthcoming Ford Edge SUV.
It is not yet clear if this feature will be expanded to other cars in the Ford range.
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