FORVIA HELLA, the global automotive supplier renowned for its advanced lighting and electronics solutions, has secured another major order from VDL Bus & Coach, one of Europe’s premier bus manufacturers. The company will provide the first fully customized headlamp system developed exclusively for the all-new VDL FUTURA 3 bus series, which will make its world debut at the upcoming Busworld Europe 2025 trade fair in Brussels.
This milestone collaboration further deepens the strong partnership between FORVIA HELLA and VDL Bus & Coach. Previously, FORVIA HELLA supplied the front lighting modules for the successful VDL Futura 2 model, and the new agreement underscores the mutual trust and innovation that have characterized their cooperation. The new lighting system, designed at FORVIA HELLA’s headquarters in Lippstadt, Germany, and produced at its modern manufacturing facility in Lugoj, Romania, sets new benchmarks for technology, performance, and design in the commercial vehicle sector.
According to Dr. Fabian Utermöhlen, Vice President Sales & Marketing in the Lifecycle Solutions Business Group at FORVIA HELLA, this achievement demonstrates the company’s strong position as a global leader in advanced lighting systems for commercial vehicles. “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,” Utermöhlen stated.
Advanced lighting technology for next-generation mobility
The new headlamp system created for the VDL FUTURA 3 represents a technological and aesthetic leap forward. Designed with aerodynamic precision, the headlamps feature flowing reflectors enhanced by chrome accents that complement the vehicle’s modern exterior styling. The lighting unit is built around a high-performance LED module, making VDL the first bus manufacturer to implement this latest generation of FORVIA HELLA lighting technology.
These custom-developed headlamps integrate all key front lighting functions into one compact, efficient module — including low beam, high beam, position light, daytime running light, and Category 6 direction indicators. The low beam uses ten high-efficiency LEDs, generating 900 lumens and 50 lux, providing exceptional visibility even in low-light conditions. The daylight-like color temperature also helps reduce eye strain and fatigue, ensuring drivers remain alert and comfortable during nighttime operations.
The high beam, equipped with eight LEDs, delivers uniform illumination across a wide area of the road, improving reaction times and reducing risks in complex driving environments. Meanwhile, the LED light guide functions as both a daytime running light and position lamp, giving the bus a distinctive visual signature that enhances brand identity while increasing road presence.
Adding to its functionality, the integrated Category 6 LED direction indicator contributes to safety and seamless design integration. It also incorporates side turn signals — an essential feature for large vehicles over six meters in length, such as buses or trucks — ensuring that directional changes are clearly visible from lateral angles. This is especially critical in busy urban environments or during maneuvers on highways, where visibility from multiple viewpoints can prevent accidents.
Safety and comfort through comprehensive lighting and electronic systems
Beyond the headlamp system, FORVIA HELLA’s contribution to the VDL FUTURA 3 extends across a wide range of lighting and electronic solutions designed to maximize safety, comfort, and vehicle efficiency. These include roof marker lights, interior lighting systems, rear backup alarms, and advanced electronic sensors such as rain-light sensors and battery management sensors.
Each of these components serves a critical role in the overall driving and passenger experience. The interior lighting system, for example, enhances passenger comfort and visibility while maintaining energy efficiency — a crucial factor for electric and hybrid bus operations. Similarly, the advanced rain-light sensors automatically adjust lighting levels and windshield wiper functions, helping drivers maintain optimal visibility during changing weather conditions.
The inclusion of battery sensors also reflects FORVIA HELLA’s focus on supporting energy management and operational reliability, particularly in the evolving landscape of electric and low-emission buses. By providing real-time data on battery health and system performance, these sensors contribute to predictive maintenance strategies and overall vehicle uptime.
Reinforcing a long-term partnership
The successful development of the VDL FUTURA 3 lighting system marks yet another milestone in the enduring partnership between FORVIA HELLA and VDL Bus & Coach. The collaboration demonstrates both companies’ commitment to sustainability, technological innovation, and excellence in vehicle design.
By integrating state-of-the-art LED technologies, modular systems, and sensor-driven intelligence, FORVIA HELLA continues to redefine the standards of commercial vehicle lighting. The company’s R&D and manufacturing capabilities in Europe play a pivotal role in this success — from conceptual design and engineering in Germany to precision manufacturing and quality assurance in Romania.
The VDL FUTURA 3 series itself is expected to embody the future of efficient, safe, and visually distinctive passenger transport. With its combination of aerodynamic form, advanced lighting systems, and enhanced electronic components, it is poised to meet the growing demands for energy-efficient and environmentally responsible transportation solutions across Europe and beyond.
As the new model makes its official debut at Busworld Europe 2025, the partnership between FORVIA HELLA and VDL Bus & Coach will stand as a prime example of how innovation and collaboration drive progress in the mobility sector. Through the integration of intelligent lighting and electronic systems, both companies aim to elevate safety standards, optimize driver performance, and enrich passenger experiences — all while supporting the global shift toward sustainable transportation.
In essence, the new order not only highlights FORVIA HELLA’s expanding footprint in the commercial vehicle market but also underscores its role as a trusted technology partner to leading OEMs like VDL. The cutting-edge headlamp and auxiliary systems for the VDL FUTURA 3 showcase how design, performance, and safety can come together to illuminate the road ahead for the next generation of public transport.
