ECE-R87 stands for a standard specifically focused on daytime running lights (DRL) for motor vehicles. Daytime running lights, usually consisting of LED lamps, ensure that vehicles are more visible during the day, significantly increasing road safety. These lights are often arranged in a straight line or circle and are designed to stand out during the day without replacing the other lighting of the vehicle.
What is ECE?
ECE stands for Economic Commission for Europe. This commission establishes guidelines that products such as helmets and visors must comply with. ECE also ensures that these products undergo testing. This is the same agency that handles the E-mark.
legislation regarding ECE-R87
The presence of daytime running lights (ECE-R87) is mandatory on motor vehicles and prohibited on trailers. The daytime running lights at the front of your car must shine forward with a radiant white color. It is also mandatory to have two separate daytime running lights on your motor vehicle, with a minimum distance of 600 mm between them. For vehicles with a total width of less than 1300 mm, the distance can be reduced to 400 mm.
The obligation for Daytime running lights In Europe, it is laid down in EU Regulation 661/2009, also known as the 'General Safety Regulation'. You can find the full text of this regulation on the official website of EUR-Lex Regulation 661/2009.
Technical Specifications of ECE-R87 Daytime Running Lights
- LED configuration and placementDaytime running lights consist of 5 to 10 LED lamps per unit, mounted at the front of the vehicle, and shine forward with a bright white color.
- Distance and Mounting HeightThe lights must be at least 600 mm apart (400 mm for vehicles narrower than 1300 mm) and mounted between 250 mm and 1500 mm above the ground.
- Automatic DeactivationDaytime running lights must automatically deactivate when the city lights or low beams are turned on.
Update: Regulatory Changes
The latest revision of the ECE-R87 regulation, updated on September 18, 2023, introduces several important changes to improve the safety and effectiveness of daytime running lights. The new provisions impose stricter technical requirements on the performance of LED light sources, including enhanced specifications for light intensity and beam angles. Uniform standards are also now applied for the installation height and placement of lighting, promoting consistency in the visibility and application of vehicles worldwide. These adjustments aim to enhance road safety and ensure compliance with international standards.
For more detailed information on the latest changes, you can view the official document on the UNECE-website.
Is it mandatory to use ECE-R87 daytime running lights in the Netherlands?
ECE R87 daytime running lights are not mandatory for all vehicles, but since 2011, they have been required for all new cars in the EU. From 2012, this requirement also applies to new trucks and buses. Vehicles registered before these dates are not necessarily required to comply with ECE R87. Although the use of daytime running lights during the day is not mandatory in the Netherlands, it is strongly recommended because it improves vehicle visibility and contributes to road safety.
Can older vehicles be equipped with ECE-R87 daytime running lights?
Yes, older vehicles can be equipped with aftermarket ECE-R87 certified daytime running lights, as long as the installation meets the legal requirements.
Daytime running light or LED bar with daytime running light
TRALERT® offers a wide range of ECE-certified LED lighting, such as the Driving lights or a LED bar with daytime running lightsYou do not see R87 mentioned here because these often fall under ECE R148. This is the latest regulation that streamlines the requirements for various vehicle lighting components, including daytime running lights (DRL).
Under ECE R148, the standards for daytime running lights, which previously fell under ECE R87, have been combined with other lighting standards. This means that TRALERT® driving lights and LED bars may now fall under ECE R148. By choosing ECE-certified driving lights and LED bars from TRALERT®, you ensure high-quality, European-approved lighting.