We explain what LED headlights are and how they work to keep you safe at night

Most people know that LED stands for Light Emitting Diode, however, less realise LED car headlight units can bring an increase in cost and complexity over halogen bulbs, and also an increase efficiency and adjustability – thanks in part to the diminutive proportions and power usage of each diode.

Most new cars come with LED daytime running lights, but full LED headlights are not industry standard (yet). As manufacturers chase reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions, easing the electrical strain on a car has become more important, and that is exactly what LED lights help do.

They produce crystal clear light, which when combined with matrix light technology (explained later) offer huge advances in adaptability and illuminating power over standard LED, xenon and halogen headlamps. A negative to the LED units, especially of the matrix kind, is replacing the unit can be incredibly costly.

That being said, full LED headlights are likely to keep increasing in prevalence and spending the extra money might be an advantage down the line come sale time. Also, if you are less than confident when driving at night, LED matrix lights could go a long way to helping you.