The days of basic low and high beams are over as car headlights become ever more sophisticated.

The new technologies bring promises of brighter light, greater reach down the road, and even the ability to spot pedestrians and animals long before they would be illuminated by conventional bulbs.

The new lights also free up car designers, who can now create distinct looks and identities not possible with the round and rectangular frames of old, and convey a brand image anywhere from friendly to a menacing "get out of my way."