Adaptive headlights, one of the most impressive technologies in the automotive industry, have made their mark. Initially seen in luxury vehicles in Europe over a decade ago, these headlights used mechanical contraptions to adjust the light beam. By blocking the light selectively, they allowed high beams to be used continuously without blinding other drivers, thus improving visibility at night and enhancing safety.
The advancements in adaptive headlights truly shone when LEDs became a part of the automotive world. By individually turning LEDs on and off, better results could be achieved without the need for mechanical parts. As the number of individual LEDs increased, LED matrices started being used in headlights. Volkswagen’s latest IQ.Light HD matrix headlights for the Touareg, for example, feature an impressive 19,216 micro LEDs per headlight, allowing for unprecedented control over the light.
Unfortunately, US customers have not been able to enjoy the benefits of these advanced adaptive headlights. While the NHTSA changed regulations in 2022 to allow the use of this technology, the US standard is incompatible with the one used in Europe. As a result, the testing procedure for manufacturer compliance is still being finalized, and US customers will have to wait for adaptive headlights to officially enter the market.
However, some resourceful car owners have found a way to enable adaptive headlights through software hacks. This is possible because the headlights are already allowed in Canada, making it relatively simple to enable them in the US as well. Polestar 2 owners, for example, have discovered a method to activate the Pixel Lights (Polestar’s commercial name for adaptive LED-matrix headlights) and have shared it on the Polestar forum.
Initially, the method involved using VIDA software to extract PINs for the Central Electronics Module (CEM) and Vehicle Connectivity Module (VGM). These PINs were then used with another software called OrBit to reprogram the CEM and activate region-locked features like the Pixel Lights, assuming the vehicle already had the necessary hardware. Since then, the OrBit developer has offered a “PIN retrieval service,” simplifying the process for owners.
While enabling adaptive headlights on the US-spec Polestar 2 is relatively straightforward, there is no guarantee that the new setting will remain activated. US customers eagerly await the official entry of adaptive headlights into the market, allowing them to enjoy the enhanced visibility and safety these advanced headlights offer.
Software updates for the CEM configuration in Volvo cars can be overwritten at any time, according to the OrBit developer. The carmaker typically updates the software for the module twice a year. Fortunately, restoring the features is easy as the OrBit software retains the previous configuration. However, if the carmaker discovers that your car is using modified software, they may blacklist your car’s VIN, which can be quite bothersome. To remove the block, a visit to the dealer is necessary, so it’s advisable to avoid this situation.
