Rules for parking lights on vehicles explained

ECE R77 is a crucial regulation for the approval of parking lights on vehicles. These rules ensure that parking lights meet the highest safety standards. In this article, we explain what the standard entails, why this regulation is important, and what it means for manufacturers and drivers. Read on to discover everything about ECE R77 and how these rules contribute to safer roads.

What is ECE R77?

According to ECE R77, a parking light is defined as a lamp used to draw attention to the presence of a stationary vehicle. Parking lights are designed to be visible when a vehicle is parked, especially in low-light conditions, such as at night or during bad weather. The lighting must emit enough light to make the vehicle visible to other road users, but the number of lux should not be so bright that it causes glare.

Key features

ECE R77 applies to parking lights for vehicles in categories M (passenger cars), N (trucks), and T (tractors). The standard specifies the minimum and maximum light intensity and requires a specific light distribution at different angles. The color of the light must be red, white, or amber, depending on the position and use of the vehicle. By following these requirements, it ensures the safety of vehicles during parking, especially in poor visibility conditions.

Why ECE R77 is important for safety

Parking lights play a crucial role in the safe parking of vehicles. They warn other road users of the presence of a stationary vehicle, especially in the dark or during bad weather. Therefore, ECE R77 sets strict requirements for the performance of parking lights to ensure that vehicles are always clearly visible.

Also read our article on E-mark lighting terms to learn more about how certifications like ECE and E-mark contribute to road safety.

Benefits of consistent standards

One of the main benefits of ECE R77 is that it ensures uniform standards for parking lights worldwide. This means that vehicles, regardless of where they are manufactured or used, provide the same high standard of visibility and safety. This allows manufacturers to operate more efficiently, and drivers can be confident that their vehicles meet strict safety standards.

To obtain approval according to ECE R77, manufacturers must go through a comprehensive application process. This process includes technical documentation, testing, and compliance with production requirements.

Visit the TRALERT® knowledge base for more information on vehicle lighting and ECE standards such as the popular ECE R10 and ECE R65.

Step-by-step approval process

Manufacturers submit an application to the Type Approval Authority, along with technical drawings and samples of the parking lights. The lights are then tested for light intensity, light distribution, and color. Each parking light must be clearly marked with the brand name and category of the light source. Manufacturers must also comply with the production conformity control requirements as described in ECE R77.

External sources

Voor de volledige ECE R77-regelgeving, raadpleeg de officiële UNECE documentatie. Deze bron biedt een gedetailleerde uitleg van de technische specificaties en goedkeuringscriteria.

ECE R77 is essentieel voor het waarborgen van de veiligheid van voertuigen op de weg. Door duidelijke normen te stellen voor de prestaties van parkeerlichten, helpt deze regelgeving om de zichtbaarheid en veiligheid te verbeteren. Fabrikanten die zich aan de norm houden, dragen bij aan veiligere wegen wereldwijd. Voor voertuigbezitters betekent naleving hiervan dat ze kunnen vertrouwen op de veiligheid en kwaliteit van hun voertuigverlichting.