This article may contain affiliate links.
During most of automotive history, you could only see a car’s badge clearly in daylight. They are mostly made of chrome, enamel and polished plastic. Therefore, once night falls, the badge will disappear in the darkness. Electric vehicles are changing that. Since they have no engine that needs a large radiator opening, the front of an EV has become a smooth, flat panel, and automakers are filling it with light.
Cadillac began this transition early. The Lyriq, the brand’s first all-electric model, has a black-and-white version of the Cadillac crest which can light up from behind. The Escalade IQ carried the idea to a much larger front-end design. In detail, an illuminated crest, a partly lit grille and vertical LED columns define the characteristics of its front fascia.
Audi has been more cautious in this regard, partly because of regulation. The Q8 E-tron marks the debut of a flat, chrome-free version of the “Four Rings” emblem. Also, Audi stated that it will add indirect grille lighting to frame the logo. The A6 E-tron then became the first Audi model with illuminated four-ring at the rear. Audi lighting engineers have said that step was possible only after new European rules came into effect in January 2023.
Why Light the Logo?
In fact, there are practical reasons behind the trend. EVs are very quiet when in motion, and their side profiles often look quite similar. Therefore, an illuminated badge gives a brand a highly recognizable “signature” at night. Moreover, LED lighting uses very little energy, so this design has almost no impact on a vehicle’s driving range. As headlights shrink into thin strips, the badge has become one of the few large surfaces where a brand can make a statement.
The Look Moves into the Aftermarket
Not every owner drives a new EV, but this look has spread to older and gas-powered vehicles. People can use some aftermarket kits to replace the factory badge with an LED unit that matches the original shape. An Audi light-up emblem, for example, is specially designed to match the dimensions of a specific model’s grille badge. Therefore, you don’t need to cut the grille any more.
Cadillac owners have similar options. A light-up Cadillac emblem is usually designed to follow the crest’s outline. Also, it can be wired to light up with the parking lights or when a door is opened.
What to Check Before Installing
- Local lighting rules. In most U.S. states and Canadian provinces, there are restrictions for forward-facing red lights and flashing lights. So you had better check local regulations before you choose a color or a dynamic pattern.
- Sensors behind the badge. Some newer models, including the Audi Q4 E-tron, are equipped with driver-assistance sensors behind the front badge. If a replacement badge blocks the radar, it may affect the adaptive cruise control system.
- Wiring. Plug-and-play kits are easier to reverse than hardwired ones. A proper fuse can protect the 12-volt system, which is responsible for powering lights and accessories in electric vehicles.
- Weather sealing. A badge is exposed to rain, road salt and car-wash spray. Therefore, the waterproof rating is really important.
The badge has always an iconic feature of cars. In the electric era, it is also becoming a light source, which owners of older vehicles can also enjoy now.
