Osram Opto Semiconductors is the exclusive lighting partner for automobile manufacturer Rinspeed’s Snap concept car. The Swiss-based think tank created Snap for a future defined by autonomous driving and urbanization. The autonomous concept vehicle, which features many of Osram’s LED, laser and optoelectronic sensing solutions from the ultraviolet (UV) and visible to infrared spectrum, will be launched at the 2018 CES Show in Las Vegas.

(Image: Rinspeed)

The advent of autonomous driving and increase in urbanization will radically change how consumers think about and use their cars. In the near future, vehicles will become an extension of our private living space, requiring the same kinds of comfortable lighting options available in our home or office. Car sharing and delivery services will also change dramatically as more self-driving cars are introduced. With these issues in mind, Rinspeed developed a complete and unique eco-system. Rinspeed's Snap includes a detachable "skateboard," containing the drivetrain and most of the IT, which connects to variable "pods."

To give Snap a distinctive look and feel, Osram Opto Semiconductors provided the concept vehicle with human centric lighting, which coordinates the interplay of light, atmosphere and space to enhance the well-being of passengers. Furthermore, using facial recognition technology, powered by a new generation of infrared LEDs, Snap can adapt to the individual requirements of each passenger. Everything from personalized lighting options to preferred temperature to seat position can be adjusted to meet a passenger’s needs. Entering the vehicle becomes even more customized and secure with iris scanning technology, featuring Osram’s infrared LEDs.

“We are honored to be the exclusive lighting supplier for Rinspeed’s Snap, a vehicle that reimagines the future of driving,” said Bodo Ischebeck, Vice President and General Manager of Industry and Mobile Devices at Osram Opto Semiconductors. “Our cutting-edge, infrared LED technologies are making vehicles more individualized for passengers than ever before by bringing the latest biometric identification applications to the automotive industry.”

Osram Opto Semiconductors’ LED technology also impressively demonstrates how dynamic information can be transmitted to both drivers and pedestrians. Projection lighting welcomes passengers with red carpet treatment and provides safety advice for pedestrians. LEDs and lasers convert front and rear windows into information-rich screens for conveying marketing messages or communicating with the vehicle’s surroundings. LED license plates can be customized with the driver’s information to accommodate future car sharing regulations.

“As we enter a new era of autonomous vehicles, lighting will become even more important,” said Wolfgang Lex, Vice President and General Manager of Automotive at Osram Opto Semiconductors. “Suddenly, the car is not just a car. It’s an office on wheels, a library, a living room, or an art studio where you can paint a picture during your commute hours. Logically, cars will need lighting that’s appropriate for all these activities and more.”

Osram Opto Semiconductors is bringing advanced technologies used in other industries to the automotive world. Biomonitoring on smart watches connects to the Rinspeed vehicle to assist passengers experiencing a sudden health issue. Finally, high-power UV LEDs disinfect Snap after each use to prevent the spread of germs.