In contrast to two years ago, considering all the concept cars and new models unveiled, 2014’s Mondial Paris auto show strongly put forth the message that the automotive crisis in Europe is now behind us.
The five takeaway points we retain from our visit are:
1. Most new production cars in the premium and middle ranges are now using LEDs at the front and rear.
2. To create visual distinction in the front from HID, the LED headlamps tend to use groups of lenses with square, rectangular, and other non-round contours. The big round projector module is being supplanted. Headlamp heights are decreasing in concept cars, also to some degree in new production models. The constraint of the ø70mm lens has been removed by LEDs.
3. We’re definitely seeing industry-wide use of DRL and rear lamp design to emphasise styling differentiation and reinforce brand signature. Full red/white light bars or light guides are used more and more, emphasising the brand signature.