One light doesn’t sound like it will be better than dozens, but in this case it is. A breakthrough in LED technology could change car styling for ever.

Scientists have built a single lamp unit that is a match for the multiple bulbs currently used on models such as the Peugeot 307 CC. “This is a huge milestone for the automotive industry,” explained Steve Landau of creator Lumileds, based in California.

“At these levels of performance, it will be possible to have tail, brake and indicator lights on a single
unit.” As LEDs don’t burn out like ordinary filament bulbs, they can last longer than the life of a car - so drivers are unlikely ever to have to replace them.

The unit will also give designers more freedom when styling the rear ends of new models. As our picture shows, it’s only 15mm thick, which means no cumbersome bulbs and reflective material, freeing up space.

Landau added that by squeezing different components on to one LED, costs will be reduced, making the units as cheap as conventional bulbs.

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