ECE R65 class 2

Class 1 and Class 2 are two categories that coexist to cover different operational needs. Class 1 is suitable for lower intensity (night use, less urgent vehicles), while Class 2 offers higher intensity for daytime use with switchable mode for a less bright mode when it is dark.

Is ECE R65 class 2 legally required?

The UNECE standard does not mandate the specific use of class 1 or 2 per vehicle category. The standard only stipulates that the warning lights used must comply with the approval appropriate to the application.

National application

In practice, the obligation arises through national regulations or operational protocols, such as:

• use by emergency services
• deployment on motorways
• guidelines for exceptional transport
• regulations for road work

In many of these situations, Class 2 is the only way to meet the minimum visibility requirements, making the choice effectively unavoidable.

Can Class 2 lighting be used at night?

Yes, but only with night mode switched on. Class 2 lights have a mandatory switching function:

• Day mode: min. 250 cd for visibility.
• Night mode: Lower (similar to Class 1) to prevent glare.

When getting started, check compatibility with vehicle electronics (ECE R10).

Difference ECE R65 class 1 and class 2

When choosing warning lights for your vehicle, ECE R65 approval is the European standard. This regulation ensures that optical signals are visible safely and effectively. However, within the ECE R65 standard, an important distinction is made between the categories: Class 1 and Class 2.

When do you need ECE R65 class 2?

You choose ECE R65 class 2 when you:

• needs maximum visibility in bright daylight
• deployment of vehicles driving on motorways or in busy traffic situations
• Be operational 24 hours a day and require a dimming function
• works according to national directives requiring higher visibility
• Want to comply with both minimum and maximum light values within ECE R65

In short: class 2 is the professional choice for vehicles where safety, visibility and compliance with regulations are key.

360 degree visibility

In our article on the regulations governing safety lighting on vehicles, you can read more about the conditions under which such lighting may be fitted. This includes flashing beacons, LED warning lights and work lights with a warning light function.

TRALERT® safety signalling with ECE R65

View the range of certified R65 lighting here.

Disclaimer:

At TRALERT®, we do our best to keep the information in this article as accurate and up-to-date as possible, including the regulations surrounding vehicle lighting. However, legislation can change regularly, and although we make every effort to implement these changes in a timely manner, it is possible that certain updates or adjustments have not yet been incorporated into this article. We therefore always advise our readers to check the current legislation with their local government or regulatory bodies, especially when it comes to exceptions or specific national regulations. TRALERT® is not liable for any damages or fines resulting from outdated or incomplete information in this article.

If in doubt, always contact the competent authority to ensure that your vehicle meets all legal requirements.