Auto-dimming mirrors
ConfortAverage price
400€ - 1200€
Auto-dimming mirrors, also known as electrochromic mirrors, are comfort and safety features designed to reduce glare caused by the headlights of trailing vehicles during night driving. Unlike manual day/night mirrors that require physical adjustment, this technology operates entirely automatically. The system typically uses two light sensors: one facing forward to measure ambient light and another facing rearward to detect the light intensity of headlights. When a significant difference is detected (dark night and blinding headlights), a low electrical voltage is applied to a layer of electrochemical gel located between two glass plates of the mirror. This voltage causes the gel to darken, which reduces the reflectivity of the mirror and consequently the intensity of the light reflected into the driver's eyes. The process is gradual and reversible: as soon as the glare source disappears, the mirror returns to its normal clarity. This technology can be applied to the interior rearview mirror as well as the exterior mirrors (driver's side and sometimes passenger side) for comprehensive protection.
Benefits
- ✓Significant reduction in eye fatigue and stress during nighttime driving.
- ✓Improved safety by preventing sudden glare and temporary loss of vision.
- ✓Fully automatic operation, requiring no driver intervention.
- ✓Smooth and gradual tint transition, offering constant visual comfort.
Learn more
What is an auto-dimming rearview mirror?
What is an auto-dimming rearview mirror?
Auto-dimming mirrors, more commonly referred to as electrochromic mirrors in the automotive industry, represent a major advancement for comfort and safety during nighttime driving. Their main function is to automatically reduce the glare caused by the headlights of vehicles following behind you. Gone is the manual gesture required to flip the mirror to its night position; this technology takes care of everything, offering a more serene and less tiring driving experience. Often fitted as standard on high-end vehicles, this option is becoming more mainstream and available on many mid-range models, usually bundled within comfort or visibility packages.
How does this anti-glare technology work?
The operation of auto-dimming mirrors is based on a simple yet ingenious electrochemistry principle. The mirror is not just a simple reflective surface, but a complex assembly:
Light sensors: The system integrates two sensors. The first, located at the front of the mirror, measures ambient light to determine whether it is day or night. The second, facing the rear, detects the light intensity of the headlights of following cars.
The electrochemical gel: Between two thin layers of glass lies a special conductive gel. This is the core of the system.
The darkening process: When the first sensor detects darkness and the second sensor perceives intense light (glare), a microprocessor sends a weak electrical pulse through the gel. This voltage alters the chemical properties of the gel, causing it to darken. The stronger the detected light, the darker the gel becomes, thereby decreasing the amount of light reflected into the driver's eyes.
Return to normal: As soon as the glare source disappears (when the car changes lanes, for example), the electrical voltage is cut off and the gel becomes transparent again, restoring the mirror to its maximum clarity.
This system can be fitted to the interior rearview mirror as well as the exterior side mirrors, for complete protection against glare.
Key benefits for the driver
The integration of auto-dimming mirrors offers concrete and immediate benefits:
Enhanced safety: Sudden glare can blind a driver for several seconds—a crucial reaction time on the road. By modulating the light, these mirrors maintain optimal rear visibility and allow the driver to stay focused on the road ahead.
Superior visual comfort: Night driving, especially over long distances, can be hard on the eyes. By eliminating the need to squint or manually shield oneself from the light, this technology significantly reduces eye strain and stress.
Simplicity and automation: The system is entirely passive. There are no buttons to press or levers to manipulate. The driver does not have to think about it, allowing them to concentrate 100% on their driving.
Aesthetics and modernity: Beyond their functional aspect, these mirrors are often associated with more modern and high-end finishes, enhancing the vehicle's interior.
Photochromic vs. Electrochromic: What's the difference?
In everyday and commercial language, the terms "photochromic" and "electrochromic" are used interchangeably to refer to auto-dimming mirrors. Technically, the term "electrochromic" (meaning "color by electricity") is more accurate, as the tint change is triggered by an electric current. A "photochromic" material (like in eyeglasses) reacts directly to the intensity of UV rays, without electrical intervention. However, in the automotive context, both terms refer to the same automatic anti-glare functionality. They are distinct from the traditional manual day/night rearview mirror, which operates via a mechanical flip that changes the angle of reflection.
Finitions équipées
24 finition(s) proposent cet équipement
Alfa Romeo Alfa Romeo 4C
4C Carbon Edition (1st generation) (2015-2018)
BMW BMW X4
Carbon Edition (2nd generation G02 LCI) (2022-2025)
BMW BMW X5 M
X5 M Competition Pack Carbon (3rd generation F95) (2019-2023)
Citroën Citroën Jumper
Exclusive (2nd generation - Phase 2) (2014-2019)
Fiat Fiat Ducato
Business (4th generation X290) (2014-2021)
Hyundai Ioniq
Creative (Ioniq 6 - 2nd generation lineup) (2023-2026)
Hyundai Kona
Creative (2nd generation) (2023-2026)
Hyundai ix20
Premium Pack / Luxury Pack (1st generation) (2012-2019)
Infiniti Infiniti QX70
GT (FX / pre-facelift) (2010-2013)
Lexus Lexus CT
CT 200h Pack (1st generation, phase 2) (2014-2017)
Mazda Mazda RX-8
Luxury Pack (1st generation) (2010-2011)
Mercedes-Benz Mercedes GLA
Progressive Advanced (2nd generation H247) (2020-2026)
Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz M-Klasse
Luxury (W166) (2011-2015)
Mini Mini Cooper
Cooper S Chili Pack (R56) (2010-2013)
Nissan Nissan 370Z
370Z Roadster Pack (1st generation - phase 1) (2010-2012)
Opel Opel Grandland
Design (2nd generation - Grandland) (2024-2026)
Peugeot Peugeot e-208
Allure Pack (1st generation) (2021-2023)
Renault Renault Kadjar
Zen (Phase 2 / Facelift) (2019-2022)
Toyota Toyota C-HR
Design (1st facelifted generation) (2019-2023)
Toyota Toyota Camry
Design (XV70, phase 2) (2021-2024)
Associated equipment
Automatic headlight activation
Automatic headlight activation is a driver assistance system designed to improve safety and driver comfort. Using a light sensor, usually located on the upper part of the windshield near the rearview mirror, the vehicle detects variations in ambient light. When the light level drops below a predefined threshold, such as at dusk, when entering a tunnel, in an underground parking lot, or during heavy weather, the system automatically commands the activation of the low beam headlights and tail lights. Conversely, when the light level becomes sufficient again, the lights turn off by themselves. This automation frees the driver from any manual intervention, allowing them to focus fully on the road. In addition to ensuring optimal visibility under all circumstances, this device prevents potentially dangerous oversights and avoids fines related to a lack of regulatory lighting. Often coupled with automatic windshield wipers, it is now standard equipment on the majority of new vehicles, actively contributing to active and passive safety.
Light sensors
The light sensor is a fundamental electronic component in Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), playing a crucial role in active safety and comfort. Typically housed in a compact unit at the base of the windshield, behind the rearview mirror, it is very often combined with the rain sensor. Its primary function is to continuously measure ambient light intensity using one or more photodiodes. When this light intensity falls below a predefined threshold (dusk, entering a tunnel, underground parking, heavy rain), the sensor sends a signal to the Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM then instantly activates the automatic low-beam headlights and tail lights, ensuring the vehicle remains visible and the driver benefits from optimal visibility without any manual intervention. Beyond this main function, the light sensor actively contributes to cabin visual comfort. It controls the adjustment of the instrument cluster lighting intensity, the infotainment screen, and the head-up display, dimming them at night to prevent glare and eye strain. Today, this intelligent automation is standard on the majority of new vehicles.
Heated side mirrors
Heated side mirrors, also known as defrosted mirrors, are an essential automotive comfort and safety feature, especially in regions with harsh winters or humid climates. This technology integrates an electrical resistor, in the form of a thin heating film, directly behind the glass surface of the mirror. When activated, usually via the same button as the rear window defogger, this resistor gently warms the glass. This process rapidly and efficiently eliminates frost, ice, fog, or condensation that can obstruct the driver's rear and side vision. In just a few minutes, the mirrors become perfectly clear again, ensuring optimal visibility of blind spots and the vehicle's surroundings. Initially reserved for high-end vehicles, this feature has become widely democratized and is now offered as standard or optional equipment on a vast majority of new models. It represents a considerable time-saver in the morning and a significant active safety element by reducing the risks associated with poor lateral visibility.
Auto-dimming interior rearview mirror
The auto-dimming interior rearview mirror, also known as an automatic day/night mirror, is a comfort and safety feature that automatically darkens to reduce glare caused by the headlights of trailing vehicles. Unlike traditional manual mirrors that require physical adjustment to switch between day and night modes, the electrochromic model adjusts its tint level progressively and autonomously. It consists of special glass incorporating an electrochemical gel or liquid between two layers. Two light sensors, one facing forward (measuring ambient light) and the other facing backward (detecting headlight intensity), work in tandem. When the rear sensor detects bright light while the front sensor perceives darkness, a microprocessor sends a low electrical current to the gel, which darkens. This chemical reaction absorbs light and decreases the intensity of the reflection, thereby protecting the driver's eyes. As soon as the intense light source disappears, the current is cut, and the mirror returns to its maximum clarity. This sophisticated technology significantly improves visual comfort and safety during nighttime driving.
Blind Spot Monitor
The blind spot monitor, often referred to by the acronym BSM (Blind Spot Monitoring), is an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) fundamental to modern automotive safety. Its role is to monitor the lateral and rear areas of the vehicle that are invisible to the driver via the rearview mirrors or direct vision. To do this, it relies on a network of sensors, typically short-range radars hidden in the corners of the rear bumper or under the outer mirror housings. As soon as a vehicle (car, motorcycle, truck) enters this blind spot, the system alerts the driver. The warning most often takes the form of a light, usually an orange or red icon that illuminates in the outside mirror on the affected side. If the driver engages their turn signal to change lanes while a hazard is present, the alert is intensified by a rapid flashing of the indicator, often coupled with an audible signal or a steering wheel vibration. The most advanced systems, classified as active, can go so far as to apply a slight counter-steering force to discourage the maneuver and prevent a collision. Particularly effective on high-speed roads and in dense traffic, this technology has become an essential safety standard, significantly reducing the risk of lane-change accidents.