What is contour lighting?

Outline lighting is a form of illumination that creates an outline of an object. Often used on vehicles such as trailers and trucks to make them visible at night to other drivers. This type of lighting typically consists of LED lamps mounted along the edge of the vehicle. Outline lighting can be used for both safety and design. In many cases, you see them in the form of LED marker lights such as the side marker lights.

LED Contour Lighting

LED lighting has become indispensable around safety. Therefore, we see it frequently in contour lighting of trucks box trucks, and trailers. LED lights provide bright illumination, making your vehicle more visible in low light conditions. These lights are usually waterproof and are ideal for outdoor use. It also uses less energy than other types of lighting, making it more cost effective in the long run.

practical examples

We often see contour lighting on large trailers longer than 6 meters, because they can be difficult to see in the dark. Which can have major consequences. In addition, trucks and bucket trucks have these markings. It is also a type of lighting commonly used on motor homes and caravans. Again, usually in the form of LED lights placed at the edge of the caravan or camper for bright, clear illumination. This makes your caravan or RV more visible in the dark. In addition, contour lights are available in a variety of colors and styles, so you can always find the right bulb for your vehicle. LED lighting is cheaper for caravans in the long run because it is more energy efficient than other types of lighting.

contourverlichting
Example: contour lighting on a trailer.

Obligation of contour lighting

Als het voertuig na 31.12.1997 in gebruik is genomen en een breedte heeft van meer dan 2,10 m of een lengte van meer dan 6,00 m moeten twee voor- en contourverlichting in de vorm van achter markeringslichten zichtbaar zijn. Indien het voertuig na 01/01/1998 in gebruik is genomen en een breedte heeft van meer dan 2,60 m, moeten ook zijmarkeringslichten aanwezig zijn (bron RDW). In addition, in Europe, it is also mandatory for vehicles of 7.5 tons and trailers of 3.5 tons to have contour markings with retro reflective tape.

Also read the blog about The rules for lighting on trailers If you want to be fully informed.