The international automotive supplier FORVIA HELLA has received another important order from VDL Bus & Coach, one of the leading bus manufacturers in Europe. FORVIA HELLA will supply the first fully customized headlamp developed exclusively for the new VDL FUTURA 3 bus series. The bus will be officially presented for the first time at this year's Busworld trade fair in Brussels. The headlamps, designed at FORVIA HELLA's headquarters in Lippstadt (Germany) and produced in Lugoj (Romania), set new standards in technology and design. This development is the result of the long-standing and close cooperation between FORVIA HELLA and VDL: Previously, the company FORVIA HELLA had already supplied all front lighting modules for the former VDL Futura 2 model. “With the order won for the VDL Futura 3, FORVIA HELLA is sustainably strengthening its position as an innovation leader in the field of advanced lighting systems for commercial vehicles" says Dr. Fabian Utermöhlen, Vice President Sales & Marketing in the Lifecycle Solutions Business Group at FORVIA HELLA.

Forward-looking headlamps for maximum safety
The custom-developed headlamps for the VDL FUTURA 3 are characterized by an elegant and aerodynamic design, which is emphasized by flowing reflectors with chrome accents. At the heart of the system is a high-performance module. VDL is the first bus manufacturer to apply these advanced modules, specifically engineered to meet the rigorous demands of commercial vehicles.

The headlamp combines all front lighting functions: low beam, high beam, position light, daytime running lights and Cat 6 direction indicator. The low beam, equipped with 10 LEDs, produces a total of 900 lumens and 50 lux, while the daylight-like color temperature reduces eye strain and fatigue when driving at night. The high beam with 8 LEDs ensures homogenous illumination of the road, further increasing visibility and safety.

The sleek LED light guide acts as a daytime running and position lamp, giving the vehicle a striking and distinctive design. The integrated Category 6 LED direction indicator completes the appearance of the headlamp module and blends seamlessly into the redesigned vehicle front. It includes additional side turn signals, which are particularly important for long vehicles over 6 meters in length such as buses or trucks. These make changes in direction, such as turning, more visible from lateral angles.

Comprehensive solutions for greater safety and comfort
In addition to the front lighting, FORVIA HELLA has contributed a large number of other modern lighting and electronic solutions for the VDL FUTURA 3 series – ranging from roof marker lights to interior lighting, backup alarms, and advanced sensors such as battery and rain-light sensors. In this way, these innovations play a key role in enhancing the safety, comfort, and distinctive identity of the VDL FUTURA 3 bus series.

(Photo credit: FORVIA HELLA)

TrendForce 2025 Global Automotive LED Market- Lighting and Display Product Trend
Release Date:
1. PDF (196 Pages)- 30 June 2025
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