Imagine no street lights at night! Instant images of gory car crashes coming to mind? Think positive – just imagine all the energy that would be saved.

What are we talking about?

A first of its kind glow-in-the-dark smart highway spanning 500 meters that requires no street lights. This is the first time that the ‘glowing lines’ technology had been piloted on the road. Projected images simulate a feeling of driving in a video game or perhaps of playing a role in a sci-fi movie.

Where will you find this highway?

The Netherlands. The road can be seen on the N329 in Oss, approximately 100km south east of Amsterdam.

How does it work?

The paint used to make the glow-in-the-dark markings contains photo-luminising powder that absorbs daylight and can glow for up to eight hours in the dark. the glow is a bright acid green.

Who’s brainchild is this?

Designer and innovator Daan Roosegaarde in collaboration with Dutch civil engineering firm Heijmans. Other popular Roosegarde works include a dance floor with built-in disco lights powered by dancers’ foot movements, and a dress that becomes see-through when the wearer is aroused.

When will these highways be usable?

This innovative technology will officially be launched at the end of this month.

If successful, it is expected to trigger a mass lighting switch-off across the Netherlands , saving not just millions of Euros, but energy as well.