Vehicle lighting plays a crucial role in road safety. Not only does it ensure visibility in various weather and lighting conditions, but it also helps in communicating intentions to other road users. In Europe and many other regions, vehicle lighting is subject to ECE R-type approvals, technical regulations that set uniform requirements for performance, safety, and placement of lighting. Below, we discuss the key standards that apply.

ECE R1

This standard defines the uniform conditions for the approval of front lights on vehicles, such as headlights. It includes specifications on light intensity, placement, and the angle at which the lighting must be effective.

ECE R4

Focuses on the approval of lighting for vehicle and trailer rear license plates. It ensures that license plates are clearly visible at night without dazzling other road users.

ECE R6

This standard addresses the requirements for turn signals. It regulates aspects such as color, light intensity, and the flashing pattern to ensure uniform and clear signaling.

ECE R7

ECE R7 specifically targets rear lights, brake lights, and parking lights. It sets requirements for light intensity and light distribution to ensure optimal visibility, both during the day and at night.

ECE R10

This regulation covers the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) of electrical systems, including lighting. It ensures that vehicle lighting does not cause interference with other electronic equipment and is resistant to electromagnetic interference.

ECE R23

ECE R23 focuses on the approval of reverse lights. This lighting must not only be sufficiently bright to make obstacles behind the vehicle visible but also to alert other road users.

ECE R37

This standard sets the technical requirements for incandescent bulbs used in vehicle lighting. It regulates light intensity, color temperature, and the durability of the bulbs.

ECE R48

ECE R48 contains detailed regulations for the installation of lighting on vehicles. It regulates the number, placement, visibility, and color of lighting components to ensure maximum safety.

ECE R50

This standard is aimed at lighting for two-wheeled vehicles, such as motorcycles. It covers rear lights, brake lights, turn signals, and license plate lighting, with strict requirements for brightness and visibility.

ECE R65

Regulates the requirements for warning lights, such as rotating lights used on emergency services or special vehicles. The regulation sets requirements for color, light patterns, and visibility, even over long distances.

ECE R77

ECE R77 deals with parking lights. This lighting must have a minimum and maximum light intensity and meet specific light distribution criteria so that parked vehicles are clearly visible.

ECE R87

This regulation sets uniform requirements for daytime running lights (DRL). DRL must be sufficiently bright to make vehicles more visible during the day without dazzling other road users. The lighting is automatically turned on when starting the engine and turned off when switching on the low or high beams.

ECE R91

This standard addresses side marker lights, which make vehicles more visible from side views. This is particularly important for long vehicles and trailers.

ECE R98

This standard is aimed at headlights with gas discharge lamps (HID lamps). It sets strict requirements for light distribution and intensity, making the lighting both effective and safe for all road users.

ECE R104

ECE R104 specifies the technical requirements for reflective markings on vehicles. This includes color, reflectivity, and placement of the markings, aiming to improve vehicle visibility in poor lighting conditions.

ECE R112

This standard sets requirements for high beam and low beam installations with incandescent bulbs. It regulates light distribution and intensity to ensure a safe driving experience without dazzling oncoming traffic.

ECE R149

This more recent regulation replaces older standards such as R112 and R113. It focuses on advanced lighting systems, such as Adaptive Front-lighting Systems (AFS), and sets uniform requirements for light intensity, distribution, and performance in various driving situations.

Conclusion

ECE R-type approvals are essential for road safety and ensuring uniform standards in vehicle lighting. Manufacturers and vehicle owners must ensure that all lighting complies with the relevant standards to meet legal requirements and increase road safety.

Would you like to know more about vehicle lighting and ECE regulations? Our team is happy to assist you further in person for any further questions.