Geely Selects Melexis’ MLX81116 Smart RGB LED Driver for DRLs and RGB Taillight in New EV Model, Illuminating the Future of Automotive Lighting Design

MELEXIS is pleased to announce that the renowned Geely Automotive Group has chosen to use Melexis devices and MeLiBu® technology for the advanced daytime running lights (DRLs), as well as the RGB LED taillight with full-color lighting in the new Z10 model, the first EV by Lynk & Co. Looking to push the limits of vehicle lighting design, the group selected Melexis' MLX81116 Smart RGB LED driver due to its sophisticated dynamic lighting control and advanced communication interface.

With automotive lighting becoming a key visual distinction in modern vehicle design, Geely group was looking for a distinctive DRL and RGB taillight with full-color lighting arrangement for the first EV to be launched by one of its subsidiary brands. To achieve reliable color-changing dynamic lighting in safety-critical elements like the front DRL and full-color taillight, a multitude of technical requirements had to be met, necessitating a high-performance solution.

This solution was the MLX81116 Smart 12-channel RGB LED driver. As a proven technology, the integrated circuit (IC) provided a mature solution that, when combined with Melexis application support, allowed the automotive manufacturer to implement a standout feature for its inaugural EV.

The MLX81116 offers self-synchronization and provides a high-speed, robust communication system that is specifically designed for applications with numerous LEDs and a high degree of animation, complexity, and dynamic range. With the inclusion of an integrated microcontroller unit (MCU), the MLX81116 enables enhanced LED control algorithms, precise color mixing, and thorough diagnostic functionalities. It achieves a color mixing accuracy of 1% delta UV, while also compensating for temperature fluctuations in red/green and blue LEDs without requiring external components.

The MLX81116 uses Melexis' MeLiBu® high-speed communication technology to enable the smart animated automotive lighting required by the automotive manufacturer. MeLiBu® utilizes the CAN-FD physical layer and UART communication. For the automotive OEM, MeLiBu® served as a crucial differentiating factor in Melexis' offering and facilitated a smooth integration with the car's electrical/electronic (E/E) architecture. Furthermore, it has received additional praise from other prominent suppliers involved in the project due to its user-friendly nature.

"This model represents an exciting moment for this automotive brand, not only because it is their first EV but also because of the bold lighting design choices," said Linhong Song, Regional Marketing Manager at Melexis. She continued "The key for automotive OEMs is to discover innovative approaches for their cars to connect with their audience, and that is exactly what they have accomplished with the dynamic DRLs and RGB Taillight, supported by MeLiBu."

"The evolution of automotive design has made dynamic lighting a key differentiator," said Geely IC expert. "Our collaboration with Melexis and the integration of their advanced RGB drive technology is a testament to our commitment to innovation. The superior performance and enhanced aesthetics this technology brings to our smart electric vehicles not only elevate the driving experience but also solidify our position at the forefront of the EV industry."