Abstract: Disclosed are a system and a process for controlling the exterior lighting of an autonomous vehicle using autonomous modes of operation detected. In some modes, certain forms of exterior lighting normally required in manual operation are not necessary when the vehicle is in particular modes. Because of this, a control system is configured to dim or deactivate the headlights when one autonomous vehicle is following another autonomous vehicle. Similarly, taillights can be dimmed or turned off where an autonomous vehicle is leading another autonomous vehicle. This, in one respect, serves to conserve energy.