Variable light distribution

In the European market version a variable light distribution function is also integrated in the footwell module (FRM). The variable light distribution includes the following distribution patterns:

• City light distribution
• Country road light distribution
• Motorway light distribution
• Guiding fog light

Fig 1: Variable Headlight Distribution Curve

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The variable light distribution is not available in US market versions.

City light distribution

The urban light distribution pattern projects more light toward the left edge of the road than the previous lighting system. The footwell module (FRM) implements the improved roadway illumination with the following measures:

• Lowering the left headlight
• Tilting the left headlight to the left
  Fig 2: City Light Distribution Pattern

  Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The urban light distribution pattern is available as soon as the "engine running" signal is present. The Digital Engine Electronics (DME) and Digital Diesel Electronics (DDE) furnish the signal. The footwell module (FRM) receives the "engine running" signal via K CAN2.

Country road light distribution 

The secondary road light distribution pattern corresponds to the pattern hitherto employed for the driving light. This lighting function is available once "Terminal 15 on" status is present. The country road light distribution represents the basic setting for the headlights. The basic setting is assumed when there are faults in the complete light distribution system.

The system switches from urban traffic light distribution to country road light distribution as soon as the driving speed exceeds 45 kilometers per hour. The system reverts to the urban light distribution pattern when the driving speed falls back below 40 kilometers per hour. The footwell module (FRM) receives both the speed signal and the "engine running" signal from the central gateway module (ZGM) via K CAN2).

Fig 3: Country Road Light Distribution Pattern

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Motorway light distribution 

The footwell module (FRM) adjusts the headlights to motorway light distribution under the following preconditions:

• Driving speed exceeds 110 kilometers per hour for longer than 30 seconds
• Driving speed exceeds 140 kilometers per hour

Fig 4: Motorway Light Distribution Pattern

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The headlights are lowered once the driving speed falls below 110 kilometers per hour. The headlights are lowered (reducing the headlight beam throw) in gradual stages as the speed drops below 110 kilometers per hour:

• 110 kilometers per hour
• 100 kilometers per hour
• 90 kilometers per hour
• 80 kilometers per hour

From 80 kilometers per hour, the headlights are fully reset to country road light distribution.