Inside light, hidden risks from within
In recent years, automakers have increasingly invested in environmental lighting systems, often LED light strips decorated around tabloids, doors or central platforms. Although it brings a luxurious and modern feeling, if used incorrectly, these lights can be reflected on the windshield or screen, creating a brilliant phenomenon, directly affecting night vision.
Marcus LeClaire, an expert in automotive lighting design at the Stuttgart Institute of Transport and Technology (Germany), warned:
Foreign lights can disrupt the light adaptation of the eyes when driving at night. If the light is too bright, too cold or placed in the wrong position, it will make it difficult for the eyes to focus on the already dark outside environment, increasing the risk of accidents.
Color and light intensity: Don't let beauty get away with it
Many drivers choose blue or light blue interior because of the "technical" feel. However, according to visual studies, blue and white light have a higher wave bandwidth, more likely to cause visual stress than yellow or red light, which is soothing and less effective for the eye when driving at night.
In addition, keeping theumelights or reading lights on continuously is also a bad habit. The light from these locations often shines directly into the driver's eyes or reflects onto the windshield, reducing the ability to observe external objects.
Balancing between convenience and safety
In fact, interior lamps are not a "favorite" if designed and used properly. Many luxury car manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz, Audi or Lexus have now integrated the feature of automatically reducing interior light brightness when the car operates in a dark environment, helping to minimize the phenomenon of blurred vision or unwanted reflection.
Manufacturers can design lighting systems with even, low-intensity, and easy-to- Customize applications, said Le Claire. On the driver's side, using the "Night Mode" mode on the entertainment screen and reducing the brightness of the interior light is a simple but effective way to protect the view".
Recommendations for drivers
With complex night traffic conditions, especially in the suburbs and rural areas lacking street lights, visibility is a vital factor.
Drivers should:
Avoid turning on unnecessary ceiling lights or cabin lights at night.
Adjust the brightness of the dashboard and central screen to a low level.
Choose a gentle interior light color, prioritize yellow or light red.
Check the interior lighting system periodically to avoid unwanted reflection errors.
