Abstract: One embodiment of exhaust component (30) contains a shield (40). The shield being opaque allows indefinite designs to be cut out. These designs are illuminated by illumination assembly (36), which enhances cutouts (44), thereby allowing them to remain visible under all conditions. Another embodiment of the exhaust component without the shield contains illumination modules (58). These modules illuminate the exhaust component's mouth (32) through base (22) or outer wall (34), and this allows the shape of the exhaust component to be the design feature. The illumination of the mouth both enhances the shape and allows it to remain visible under all conditions. These embodiments can occur alone or together for both maximal design enhancement and additional visibility of the vehicle thereby increasing safety.