Guide To: UNECE R87 - Daytime Running Lamps

UN ECE Regulation No. 87 establishes the uniform provisions for the approval of daytime running lamps (DRLs) used in motor vehicles. These lamps are designed to improve the visibility of vehicles during daylight hours, enhancing road safety by making vehicles more noticeable to other road users, especially in low-visibility situations such as dawn, dusk, or overcast conditions.

Scope of the Regulation

UN ECE R87 applies to: - Daytime running lamps for vehicles in categories L, M, N, and T, which include motorcycles, passenger cars, trucks, and agricultural vehicles.

Key Features of UN ECE R87

1. Definition of Daytime Running Lamps:

   • A daytime running lamp (DRL) is defined as a forward-facing lamp designed to make a vehicle more visible during daytime driving.

2. Photometric Requirements:

   • The light intensity emitted by the DRL must not be less than 400 candelas at the reference axis and must not exceed 1,200 candelas in any direction.
   • The light distribution must meet specific minimum intensity values across a range of angles, ensuring that the DRL is visible from various viewpoints on the road.

3. Colour of Light:

   • DRLs must emit white light, ensuring visibility without causing confusion or glare to other road users.

4. Durability and Testing:

   • DRLs must withstand the normal operational conditions, including exposure to vibrations and environmental factors. They are tested for durability, including resistance to heat and other external factors that could affect their performance.
   • A heat resistance test involves operating the lamp continuously for one hour to ensure it retains its photometric properties after prolonged use.

5. Marking and Approval:

   • Each approved DRL must carry an approval mark, including the manufacturer's trade name and an approval number. The approval mark ensures that the lamp has passed the necessary tests and conforms to the regulation's standards.

6. Conformity of Production:

   • Manufacturers must follow strict production conformity standards to ensure that each lamp produced matches the approved type. Regular sampling and testing are required to verify that production units meet the photometric and mechanical standards set out in the regulation.

Conclusion

Daytime running lamps are crucial for vehicle visibility during daytime driving, enhancing road safety. Compliance with UN ECE R87 ensures that DRLs meet international safety standards for performance, durability, and light intensity. Manufacturers and vehicle operators must ensure that the DRLs they install meet these requirements to maintain safety and regulatory compliance.