What Happened To Pop-Up Headlights?

The iconic pop-up headlights of the ‘80s and ‘90s are widely loved and cherished for their fun, mechanical, and sleek look. Some popular cars of this era include the Mazda Miata, MR2, and Nissan 240SX, which we all know and love. Seeing a car with pop-ups on the street is a rare and exciting sighting that warrants a reaction from any car enthusiast. At the turn of the 21st century, these lights are no longer present in new cars. If they were so deeply cherished, why were they stripped from the roads? 

Origins

Going back, the development of pop-ups was for a specific reason. In 1968, a law was passed requiring headlights to be at least 22 inches off the ground. To keep a sleek profile while still meeting legal height requirements, pop-up headlights were born. 

The Fall

However, with the new mechanisms of ellipsoid (projector) lens technology and composite, aerodynamic headlamps, there was a way to meet this height requirement while maintaining an aerodynamic and elegant look without any moving parts. The mechanics of the lights were also prone to breaking and added unnecessary complexity to the car. In addition, with increased concern about pedestrian safety, pop-ups posed a higher risk of collisions. 

Because of this, the fall of pop-ups began, and the headlights we know and are familiar with gained popularity. While understandable, these modern lights don't have the same unique, fun, and whimsical look that the public cherished.

Modern Day

With regulation nuances and safety concerns, it is extremely rare for cars to be produced with pop-ups currently. While not impossible, as seen in Bertone’s new sports car, these headlights’ popularity is forever lost.