What is the ECE Regulation?

The ECE Regulation is a collection of technical standards developed by UNECE. The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) plays a crucial role in vehicle regulation. They set standards that influence safety, performance, and environmental protection worldwide. They do this through guidelines (indicated by the letter R).

Whether you are a manufacturer or a consumer, understanding the ECE standards is essential. Although the ECE regulations were originally designed for Europe, these rules are now recognized worldwide. Countries such as Japan, South Korea, and Canada have incorporated these standards into their own regulations.

What does ECE stand for?

ECE stands for Economic Commission for Europe. This commission, under the United Nations, develops and enforces vehicle regulations to ensure safety and efficiency throughout Europe and beyond. Although ECE regulations are often informally referred to as ECE standards, they are officially technical regulations. However, they function similarly, as manufacturers must comply with ECE rules to legally sell vehicles and components in UNECE member states. Each regulation is identified by a unique ECE code, such as ECE R10 for electromagnetic compatibility or ECE R65 for vehicle warning lights.

E-Mark and ECE Regulation: what is the difference?

Simply put: The ECE regulation sets the rules, and the E-mark confirms that a product follows these rules.

Simpel gezegd: ECE-regelgeving stelt de regels op, en de E-markering bevestigt dat een product deze regels volgt.

Common ECE Regulations at TRALERT®

To be allowed to trade lighting products on the European market, they must meet certain requirements in terms of safety, health, and the environment. For example, regarding the safety of vehicle drivers and their surroundings when it comes to lighting, regulations have been established by the Economic Commission for Europe.

ECE-R10 (EMC Electromagnetic Compatibility)

Luminaires equipped with LEDs are sensitive to emitting electromagnetic signals. If these signals are not suppressed, they are likely to interfere with, for example, the car radio. This is, of course, undesirable. Products that comply with ECE-R10 regulations suppress these signals and are EMC shielded. Therefore, no issues with car radios or similar devices.

ECE-R149 (Headlights, driving lights, and LED bars)

Spotlights that shine in front of the vehicle must be equipped with the ECE-R149 or the earlier ECE-R112 type approval when used on public roads. A LED spotlight with this certification is equipped with lens technology that prevents blinding of oncoming traffic.

ECE-R23 (Achteruitrijverlichting)

Lamps with this approval can be used as reverse lights. These lamps have a light pattern that does not dazzle oncoming traffic, unlike regular LED work lights.

ECE-R65 Vehicle warning lights

As of March 1, 2009, European regulation ECE REG 65 applies. This regulation concerns acoustic and optical signaling on newly delivered towing and towed vehicles, such as beacons and LED flashers. From March 1, 2014, the regulation is mandatory for both new and existing towing and towed vehicles.