Multiple Gentex mirror-based features on new Lexus

Gentex Corporation, the US-based manufacturer of automatic-dimming rearview mirrors, has announced that it is shipping a number of different auto-dimming mirror variations for the 2010 Lexus RX. The company's newest technologies, including SmartBeam and its Rear Camera Display (RCD) Mirror, are available on the new luxury utility vehicle. The RX 350 is available in North America, Europe, Japan, and China. The RX 450h, the hybrid version of the 350, is available in some of these markets.

In addition to a base interior auto-dimming mirror, the new RX offers Gentex driver – and passenger – side exterior auto-dimming mirrors; a compass utilising Gentex's proprietary Z-Nav technology, a highly-accurate sensor that is designed to determine the vehicle's directional heading; Automatic High-Beam (which Gentex markets as SmartBeam), the intelligent high-beam headlamp assist feature; and the RCD Mirror as stand-alone options or as part of multiple RX packages.


The RCD Mirror contains a liquid crystal display (LCD) that works with a video camera mounted at the rear of the vehicle to provide a view directly behind the vehicle while reversing. When the vehicle is shifted into "reverse," a 2.4-inch LCD display appears automatically through the auto-dimming mirror's reflective surface. The display disappears when the vehicle is shifted into any other gear. The capability for the display to appear through the mirror's surface is made possible by Gentex "transflective" coating and lighting techniques, which result in a bright, high-resolution colour image. The RCD Mirror option is available on the RX model on a global basis.


SmartBeam High-Beam Headlamp Assist technology is available in two variations to accommodate Bi-HID and Halogen high-beam headlamps. SmartBeam uses a miniature camera-on-a-chip combined with algorithmic decision making designed to automatically turn a vehicle's high beams on and off according to surrounding traffic conditions. The system is designed to maximise a vehicle's forward lighting and to eliminate the repetitive and sometimes burdensome task of turning the high beams on and off. The SmartBeam option is available on the RX models in North America.


"The new Lexus RX is the highest content vehicle programme for which Gentex is currently shipping product," said Enoch Jen, Gentex senior vice president. "The company's newest and most sophisticated technologies, coupled with our market-leading auto-dimming feature, are being offered on a global scale through this one programme. Working with Lexus engineers, Gentex was able to develop technologies that meet varying global requirements and consumer expectations."