FORVIA HELLA launches next-generation FlatLight front lighting system, 40% more efficient and 80% lighter than traditional solutions

FlatLight is now entering the market for the first time as a daytime running light for front applications. Here you can see an illustration of the FlatLight. (Picture: FORVIA HELLA)

(IN BRIEF) FORVIA HELLA has expanded its innovative FlatLight | µMX technology to front vehicle lighting applications following its successful 2024 debut in rear systems. The ultra-thin, micro-optic-based lighting module—just five millimeters deep—is 40% more energy-efficient and 80% lighter than conventional designs, enabling unprecedented design freedom and compactness. Developed in Germany and produced in Slovakia, the scalable FlatLight system can integrate multiple functions such as daytime running, indicator, and position lights into one unit. Supported by a strategic partnership with U.S. start-up BrightView Technologies, the system also benefits from new optical film innovations that enhance efficiency and cost-effectiveness, underscoring FORVIA HELLA’s vision for sustainable, high-performance automotive lighting.

(PRESS RELEASE) LIPPSTADT, 8-Oct-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Global automotive supplier FORVIA HELLA has introduced its FlatLight | µMX technology for use in front vehicle signal lighting, marking a significant leap forward in energy efficiency, design freedom, and compactness. Following its successful series debut for rear applications in 2024, the innovative FlatLight system is now being rolled out for daytime running light applications, with production already underway at FORVIA HELLA’s Kočovce and Banovce plants in Slovakia. Development takes place at the company’s headquarters in Lippstadt, Germany, with customer-specific adaptations carried out in Ljubljana (Slovenia), Mohelnice, and Ostrava (Czech Republic).

The FlatLight concept, based on cutting-edge micro-optic technology, utilizes optical lenses smaller than a grain of salt—each just a few micrometers in size—to create striking, high-efficiency light signatures. This breakthrough enables an 80% reduction in installation space and drastically lowers energy consumption, with the module requiring only five millimeters of total depth compared to around 40 mm in conventional systems. It is also 40% more energy-efficient and 80% lighter than comparable lighting technologies currently available.

The reduction of installation space to a depth of only five millimetres and multi-colour combinations offer maximum design freedom. (Image: FORVIA HELLA)

FlatLight | µMX is fully scalable and suitable for all front and rear lighting functions, including daytime running lights, indicators, position lights, rear lights, and brake lights. This multifunctional capability allows manufacturers to integrate several lighting functions into a single module, replacing the need for multiple chambers. Additionally, customized light signatures and dynamic welcome or farewell animations can be designed and implemented through software, enhancing vehicle design possibilities.

Dr. Michael Kleinkes, responsible for global lighting development at FORVIA HELLA, stated:

“Smaller, more efficient, better — the trend toward miniaturization in the automotive industry continues to accelerate. With our FlatLight technology, which has already been successfully introduced for rear applications, we are now extending this innovation to front lighting. FlatLight stands for quality, performance, and design at the highest level while remaining energy-efficient and cost-effective. It’s a clear demonstration that sustainability and affordability can go hand in hand.”

Earlier this year, FORVIA HELLA entered a strategic partnership with U.S.-based BrightView Technologies, a start-up specializing in micro- and nano-optical solutions. Together, the companies have co-developed special optical films that make lighting components even lighter, more efficient, and more cost-effective. These jointly developed optical films are set to be gradually integrated across all FlatLight series projects, further optimizing production and performance. The collaboration also includes a strategic investment in BrightView Technologies through HELLA Ventures, FORVIA HELLA’s venture capital arm.

With a total project volume in the mid three-digit million euro range, the new FlatLight rollout represents an important step in FORVIA HELLA’s ongoing efforts to merge advanced optical technology, sustainability, and affordable innovation across the global automotive lighting market.

Media Contact:

Nadine-Kristin Reilmann
Press Officer Automotive Technology
Rixbecker Str. 75
59552 Lippstadt
Phone: +49 172 14 834 89
Nadine-Kristin.Reilmann@forvia.com

Daniel MORFELD
Press Officer
+49 (0) 2941 38 7566
daniel.morfeld@forvia.com

SOURCE: HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA