Light channel communication system for a vehicle

A light channel communication component 12 for a vehicle interior member 10 comprises an integral polymeric body being a signal-conductive integral medium for transmitting light signals therethrough. The integral polymeric body has a predetermined index of refraction through which the light signals are transmitted. The integral polymeric body further includes a structure of the vehicle interior member to support a shape of the vehicle interior member. Transmitting end 16, receiving end 18, transmitter 20 and receiver 22 are shown. The component (112, Fig 6) may have a channel portion (124, Fig 6) and a support portion (126, Fig 6) formed about the channel portion, the support portion having a lower refractive index than that of the channel portion.