Be interesting to see how these compare in the real world to my current favorite headlights, the Hella brand units fitted to higher end Volkswagens since 2009.

Be interesting to see how these compare in the real world to my current favorite headlights, the Hella brand units fitted to higher end Volkswagens since 2009. They're a much better "daylight" approximation than comparable systems, e.g. the units fitted on the Jaguar XF are pretty jarring in comparison. The beam shape adjusts based on roadspeed and window wiper activity, the rain pattern is excellent when snow is falling. For the manufacturer the part is cheaper than comparable high end units, partly due to removing the need for external ride height sensors. Most HID setups have a ride height sensor on the front suspension and one on the rear, the Hella units have gyroscopes packaged inside the cluster removing the need for external parts. The final winning point for me is the freedom left to the manufacturer in designing the rest of the headlight cluster around the HID unit. Consequently replacing any other bulbs in one of these units is complete child's play. Contrast this with 0.5 hours "book time" for the new BMW X5 - the front bumper has to be removed (involves disconnecting headlight washer pipes and plenty more besides).