BMW's New Headlight Testing Tunnel enables realistic simulation of different test scenarios for road illumination and lighting effects

BMW has unveiled its latest testing facility, the Light Channel Next, situated near Munich, Germany. This state-of-the-art facility, located in a former parts warehouse in Unterschleißheim, allows BMW to develop cutting-edge lighting technologies in a controlled environment, replicating various conditions and scenarios.

Spanning an impressive length of 433 feet (132 meters) and a width of 72 feet (22 meters), the Light Channel Next is the longest development tool within the BMW Group.

The primary objective of the Light Channel Next, situated in close proximity to BMW's Research and Innovation Center in northern Munich, is to facilitate the advancement of future lighting systems. This includes the development of headlights, daytime running lights, turn signals, and other innovative lighting solutions. Acting as the logical progression following computer-aided simulations, this facility empowers BMW to bring forth groundbreaking ideas that will enhance road safety and leave a lasting impression on customers.

One notable feature of the Light Channel Next is its ability to simulate diverse road conditions with remarkable realism. The test tunnel incorporates four distinct surfaces, each tailored to mimic different scenarios. The central area features an artificially aged asphalt surface, achieved through a specialized grinding process. This surface boasts reflection characteristics akin to an actual road. Additionally, there are sections that simulate a footpath and a common underground car park floor coating.

Furthermore, the Light Channel Next enables BMW to replicate a range of lighting conditions throughout the day. This proves particularly valuable during the development of turn indicators and daytime driving lights, which require evaluation in daylight settings. To accomplish this, a dedicated daylight wall within the facility can generate varying light conditions, including different luminosities and color temperatures.

“For the BMW Group, light is a topic that is constantly gaining in importance. With the new Light Channel Next, we look forward to a future of bringing innovative ideas to the vehicle and the market which will make a lasting impression on customers and enhance road safety”, BMW light expert Christian Jebas explains.

Light Channel Next is already operational. The primary goal of the developers is to seamlessly integrate advanced adaptive headlights. In addition, the facility will regularly host BMW's esteemed designers, recognizing that vehicle lighting is of significant aesthetic importance across all brands within the BMW Group.

Source: BMW