The Hella 4000 FF comes in halogen and HID versions; these versions use different reflectors designed for the particular light source.
I believe I covered this is the next sentence:
There may be some differences in the reflector design between the Predator and 4000 series but the effect is the same - noticeably improved width, not to mention the $2500 saving on a pair.
No, the ADR does not permit HID kits.
Quite true, for headlights. I may be new here but I'm not new to forums and I did read the rules. I am definitely not advocating an HID kit in headlights which, as you say, is "illegal 'most everywhere". But, we are not talking about headlights, we are talking about auxiliary or driving lights. Chalk and cheese.
Following is an extract from Australian Design Rule 13/00 Installation of Lighting and Light Signalling Devices on other
than L-Group Vehicles:
7.3. DRIVING LAMPS
7.3.1. Presence: Optional on motor vehicles. Prohibited on trailers.
7.3.2. Number:
7.3.2.1. Two or four.
7.3.2.2. To be used in conjunction with headlamps.
7.3.3. Arrangement:
No individual specifications
7.3.4. Position:
7.3.4.1. In width no individual specifications.
7.3.4.2. In height: no individual specifications.
7.3.4.3. In length: at the front of the vehicle and fitted in such a way that the light
emitted does not cause discomfort to the driver either directly or
indirectly through the rear-view mirrors and/or other reflecting surfaces
of the vehicle.
7.3.5. Geometric visibility:
No individual specifications.
7.3.6. Orientation:
Towards the front.
7.3.7. Electrical connections:
The driving lamps must be able to be lighted only when the main-beam
headlamps switch is in the "lamps on" position.
7.3.8. Tell tale: No requirement.
7.3.9. Others:
The aggregate maximum intensity of the main-beam headlamps as
specified in paragraph 6.1.9.1 of Appendix A, can be exceeded with the
fitment and illumination of driving lamps. Driving lamps do not have to
comply with ADR 46/….
I believe that this is fairly clear. HIDs in "Driving Lamps" are permitted so long as they face forward, are in one or two groups of two, don't result in reflected glare from any part of the vehicle and are wired to the high beam circuit.
In fairness, I should point out that most State/Territory regulations refer to the ADRs and do add the requirements that driving lights be operated in pairs and that certain height and positioning requirements are met. As per the ADRs, bulb type, beam pattern and output intensity are not restricted.
The situation for OP may be different. We don't know where he's from. All we can do is suggest that he check his local regulations. I did that. If the laws that apply to him do not allow HID driving lights then this option is not available to him.
And they ranked Lightfarce above Hella? I sure hope they shut the window after their credibility flew out of it-- there's a storm coming.
You are permitted your opinion on Lightforce lights. Conditions here are a little different to what you're used to. When you've driven on roads that are perfectly straight from horizon to horizon and bends in the road are literally hours apart, you may appreciate that there is a place for ultra long range lights that don't disintegrate with the dozen or so kangaroos that you've hit in a night's drive. FWIW, I did end up replacing the Hellas, with Lightforce Genesis, which have a similar beam and range. I admit that the Hellas are superior, but not by much, and at $240 to replace the insert, plus bulb and associated damage, after the third time I called it quits. The Lightforce lights can take a direct hit from a 'roo's head at 100km/h and not even blink. No contest.
At any rate, discussion on this is irrelevant. I did not make any recommendation or, indeed, mention of Lightforce. The link was provided so that OP could see the beam pattern from the Cibie lights and make an assessment on whether they might suit his need.
I offered my experience and three possible solutions to OP's question. Do you have a suggestion as to what may solve his problem?