E-mark / E-approval mark

The E-mark is a European approval mark indicating that vehicle components, such as lighting, comply with the safety and performance standards of the European Union. Recognisable by a circle with the letter "E" and a country code, the mark guarantees vehicle safety, reliable performance and compliance with legal requirements.

Importance of the E-mark for vehicle lighting

It guarantees that vehicle lighting meets the strict requirements set by the European Union according to ECE regulations. These requirements relate to lighting intensity, durability and safety. Vehicle lighting with the E mark contributes to road safety by ensuring that lighting is reliable and functions well under various conditions.

The E-label is issued by a national testing body of a country affiliated to the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe(UNECE).

Difference E-mark with large or small letter "e

This label is specifically intended for vehicle components and indicates that a product complies with ECE regulations, which are internationally recognised technical standards for vehicles and vehicle components.

The e-mark, with a small letter "e" in a rectangle, indicates approval according to specific EU directives and confirms compliance with European legislation. Both markings indicate that the product meets legal requirements, but they are issued by different authorities and are applicable within different legal frameworks.

The ECE regulations

ECE regulations, such as the well-known ECE R10 and ECE R65. These regulations, which are internationally recognised, contain detailed technical requirements for vehicle lighting applied by many countries. ECE regulations are often integrated into EU legislation. This means that compliance with an ECE regulation usually also meets the requirements of the E-mark. For example, compliance with ECE R48 (installation of lighting) ensures that lighting meets relevant EU safety standards.

The E-Label is mandatory for the sale and use of vehicle lighting within the EU. The quality mark confirms that the lighting complies with both ECE regulations and specific EU directives.

Did you know that each country has its own specific E-approval code? A German approval number, such as "E1", indicates that the product is approved according to German safety standards.

DIFFERENT COUNTRIES WITH DIFFERENT NUMBERS

There is a different number for each European country. A system for European approval and country-specific certification. This number indicates the country in which the product is approved. Below is an overview of some well-known numbers:

Source: European standards

Certification process

Obtaining the label is an essential safety mark and requires a thorough certification process:

1. Application procedure: Manufacturers submit an application to the competent authority of an EU Member State, submitting technical documentation and test results.
2. Test procedures: Accredited test laboratories carry out tests to verify that the product complies with the relevant ECE regulations and EU directives.
3. Approval: Upon successful testing, the authority grants the test mark, which may be affixed to the product.
4. Control and compliance: After approval, products remain subject to periodic checks to ensure continuous compliance with the standards.

In Germany, for example, this process is managed by the Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt (KBA), which is responsible for authorising and auditing products and test facilities.

Consequences in the absence of the label

Using vehicle lighting without legal approval can lead to legal penalties, such as fines, and increases the risk of accidents, as such lighting may not comply with European safety standards. In addition, the vehicle may be rejected at a roadworthiness test (MOT) if the lighting does not meet the legal requirements.

What is the difference between the E mark and the CE mark?

The E mark is specific to vehicle components and indicates that the product meets European vehicle safety and performance standards. The CE mark, on the other hand, indicates that a product complies with general European safety, health and environmental directives, but is not specific to vehicles.

Is it legal to use vehicle lighting without E-mark?

No, within the European Union it is not permitted to use vehicle lighting without this mark on public roads. The absence of this quality mark means that the lighting is not approved according to European standards, which can lead to legal sanctions and safety risks.

How can I check whether my vehicle lighting has a valid E-mark?

Check whether the lighting has the approval mark, consisting of a circle with the letter "E" and a country code. If in doubt, consult the manufacturer's documentation or contact an authorised dealer.

Watch the video on the E-mark