Bosch Automotive A product history

18 | Supplement 2 | Journal of Bosch History
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Extensive tests in
the light channel
also helped Bosch to
improve light output
(1930).
End of a long era
In 1999, the Bosch Lighting Technology
division was transferred to Automotive
Lighting GmbH, a joint venture with the
Italian company Magneti Marelli S.p.A.
Bosch gradually scaled down its interest
in this joint venture and was no longer
involved at all by 2003. So what remains
of the Bosch automotive lighting system
introduced in 1913? The generator for one.
Now in the form of an alternator, it is an
integral part of the vehicle electrical system
and is essential for the operation of electrical
consumers ranging from airbag control
to ignition systems. This is not all. Other
Bosch products still ensure good visibility
to this day. The infrared technology of the
“Night Vision” driver assistance system, for
example, enables drivers to see obstacles
sooner than they would with conventional
lights at night.
1993 1995 1996 1998
Headlights with
homogeneous
reflector surface
Headlights with
variable light
distribution
Dynamic headlight
leveling control
Bi-Litronic for
low- and high-beam
headlights