Get ready for another dose of high-tech XXX, as BMW Motorrad brings its K1600GTL concept motorcycle at CES, and it is equipped with dual laser headlights.
In case "laser headlights" sounds a bit familiar somehow, you're not experiencing a deja-vu. It's been almost two years since we reported about BMW's intentions to "export" the laser headlight technology to the motorcycle segment, and things are now as real as they get.
Laser headlights are already being integrated into mass-produced cars, and they can be found in the premium products, such as the BMW series 7 and i8 cars. It was, therefore, only natural to see it implemented in Motorrad's flagship tourer, even from the concept stage.
The BMW Laser Light technology is currently "too cost-intensive," and this means that we still have to wait a bit until it penetrates the automotive segment better and sufficient unit sales drive the price down. However, the process has started and it's now only a matter of time until laser lights become a standard in the industry, at least for BMW.
The pure white light can be directed very precisely, so the risk of blinding incoming drivers or riders is reduced. BMW also says that the laser modules come with no maintenance and a long life, while consuming less energy, too.
Light is generated by projecting a laser beam onto a surface covered with a fluorescent phosphorus compound, which emits a bright, white daylight-like light. The modules for cars are also 10 times lighter than their LED counterparts, and this means that bikes equipped with such headlights will also benefit from the weight reduction.
BMW made no declarations as to when the Laser Light technology can be expected to reach series production stage for motorcycles.
Laser headlights are already being integrated into mass-produced cars, and they can be found in the premium products, such as the BMW series 7 and i8 cars. It was, therefore, only natural to see it implemented in Motorrad's flagship tourer, even from the concept stage.
The BMW Laser Light technology is currently "too cost-intensive," and this means that we still have to wait a bit until it penetrates the automotive segment better and sufficient unit sales drive the price down. However, the process has started and it's now only a matter of time until laser lights become a standard in the industry, at least for BMW.
A 600-meter high beam range improves nighttime riding safety
The BMW Laser Light offers a range that is far superior to the existing headlights. These light modules can achieve a range of up to 600 meters (2,000 feet), twice the range of current headlights.The pure white light can be directed very precisely, so the risk of blinding incoming drivers or riders is reduced. BMW also says that the laser modules come with no maintenance and a long life, while consuming less energy, too.
Light is generated by projecting a laser beam onto a surface covered with a fluorescent phosphorus compound, which emits a bright, white daylight-like light. The modules for cars are also 10 times lighter than their LED counterparts, and this means that bikes equipped with such headlights will also benefit from the weight reduction.
BMW made no declarations as to when the Laser Light technology can be expected to reach series production stage for motorcycles.