For the ignorant (me), what is the advantage of HIDs? What is the factory bulb in our cars?

HIDs have a few advantages really, Further range and a wider light pattern for one.... the light is more natural white unlike the standard Halogen bulbs which tend to be more yellowish.... most cars come with the Halogens including our chargers, unless you have the HID projector setup... with the HID light being more natural, and having more light period, it helps to relieve eye strain when driving in low light conditions... in other words... its easier for your eyes to adjust to changing light conditions around you

the HID's also consume less power, which in return, although it is minimal, helps to reduce wear and tear on the alternator...... I saw the guy with the HID rear lights on the Z... thats was crazy bright for reverse lights.... I did see one mod i do want for my reverse lights, and thats the LED bulbs... LED's use less power too.... remember less power consumption= less strain on the system...