Abstract: A light transmitting system for a vehicle includes a window or mirror with variable transmittance. A first input device, which may comprise a user adjustable device or an ambient light sensor, provides a comfort setting. A second input device, which overrides the first, may be operated manually, or by the vehicle engaging reverse gear or switching on headlights, to increase or decrease the reflectivity and transmittance of mirror and window embodiments respectively. Where a mirror is used, a third input device, which may comprise a photosensor, may be actuated to provide lower reflectivity when experiencing glare.

Abstract: A mirror system for use on a vehicle includes one or more remotely actuated mirrors that may be mounted on the interior or exterior of the vehicle. Each mirror has a continuously variable reflective element such as a solid-state electrochromic device or an electrochemichromic cell. A first user actuated input device provides a comfort level-setting control that allows the driver to select a reflectance level for one or more mirrors at a comfortable level. A "panic button" overrides the first input device and lowers the reflectance level of one or more mirrors when an excessive glare condition is experienced. The lower reflectance level may be cancelled manually by a second actuation of the "panic button" or is automatically cancelled after a predetermined period of time to resume the normal comfort level of reflectance.