Hyundai reveals insights about the Tuscon's signature Hidden Lighting Technology

Most concept cars designed by automakers stand out due to their vivid, high-tech designs. However, most of these models do not go on to enter mass production. The Tucson, on the other hand, bears an almost identical look to Hyundai's Vision T SUV Concept.

The most distinctive feature of the Tucson is that it perfectly reproduces the bold and futuristic frontal design of the Vision T Concept. When its lights are switched off, the front of the vehicle appears covered in dark, geometric patterns, with no distinction between the grille and the seamlessly integrated LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL).

To produce the Tucson's large lamps, Hyundai utilised state-of-the-art half-mirror lighting technology. This process involved applying a thin layer of specialised metal surface coating on the inner part of the outer lens. When the DRLs are switched on, the dark chrome grille appears to transform into jewel-like shapes, bringing an eye-catching element to an otherwise sleek appearance.

As the new construction method was applied, Hyundai's engineers proceeded by verifying their reliability and made improvements accordingly. By setting up harsh virtual environmental conditions by varying the heat sources inside and outside of the lamps, they were able to test for cracks and for heat expansion.

The engineers applied nickel-chrome materials to provide heat resistance, while using subtle dark chromium colours in the radiator grille to ensure both durability and shade. As a result, the Tucson's Hidden Lights can withstand complex environmental conditions.

Adding materials to the LED lamp's lens naturally reduces light penetration, reducing efficiency. It was therefore necessary to reinforce the brightness of the lights in order to adhere to safety standards. Hyundai increased the power and number of LED units in order to increase the brightness so that it exceeded the required level, even after applying the nickel-chrome coating.

Thanks to the increased performance of LED modules, it was possible to ensure the power and visibility of the LEDs. This allowed Hyundai's designers to integrate jewel-like lamps by applying half-mirror-type lights. In addition, the outer lenses were coated with nickel-chrome on the inside.

This means they look exactly like the radiator grille when switched off, and also serve as the DRLs and direction indicator lights while switched on.

The Tucson's designers also applied Hidden Lighting technology to its tail lamps. These appear as triangular parts arranged on either side of the taillights and stretch horizontally. The grey translucent lenses partially block out light from the outside when the lights are switched off.

When the LED lights are switched on, the light curtain lens spreads the light widely and evenly, completing the intense look that appears as if the triangles spread their 'wings' together. However, the implementation method differed from that of the DRLs, which used the half-mirror technology. The outer lens of the tail lamp was processed through the use of both a translucent lens and a black lens with a relatively low penetration rate.

In addition, the inner parts of the back cover were all coloured black to maximise the Hidden Lighting effect. Hyundai's designers completed the look of the all-new Tucson's unique rear tail lamps with engraved triangular patterns. When the lights are off, these parts hide the light curtain lenses and conceal them.

Hyundai intends apply its Hidden Lighting and half-mirror LED technology to more models in the future, with the expectation that its future self-driving vehicles will be able to send information directly through their lamps to surrounding vehicles and pedestrians alike.