Cost and Registration for Additional Lighting Equipment Upgrades
In Germany, the use of auxiliary headlights in public road traffic is a common modification for various types of vehicles, such as rally cars, off-road vehicles, and classic cars. However, it is essential to ensure that these additional lights comply with the regulations set by the German Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO) and the UN/ECE regulation R48.
Every motor vehicle must have two high beams from the ford (factory), but four may be installed in total. Auxiliary headlights, such as high beams, fog lights, daytime running lights, and work lights, fall under these additional four slots.
Fog lights are not mandatory but must emit white or light yellow light and be installed at specific positions on the vehicle, adhering to certain dimensions and heights. The installation height for daytime running lights must be at least 250 mm and a maximum of 1500 mm, while the installation width for fog lights may not exceed 400 mm from the outer point of the vehicle width, and the installation height must be at least 250 mm and a maximum of 800 mm.
Daytime running lights are mandatory for all vehicle classes since February 2011, and they must be retrofitted in a total of two with white light color, having specific installation dimensions and heights.
The marking 10R indicates that electronic and electrical devices in the vehicle are not interfered with by the additional headlamps, ensuring electromagnetic compatibility. The "E in a circle" symbol, lighting functions such as R (high beam) or B (fog light), and the test number must be indicated on the headlamp glass or housing.
The legality of installed auxiliary headlights depends on the E-mark, which indicates the country of approval according to ECE regulation. Most halogen and LED auxiliary headlights from major manufacturers have these test marks and corresponding approval. For example, the OSRAM LEDriving ROUND MX180-CB, an LED auxiliary headlight for near and far light, has an ECE approval and is available on Amazon for 186.35 €.
It is crucial to note that the electrical circuit for retrofitted auxiliary headlights must be designed in such a way that this equipment can be turned on and off independently of the other lights. Furthermore, the headlights must go out when dimming, and at least one pair can always light up.
If doubts arise during the main inspection, the equipment's approval can be determined using the number in the database of the KBA (Federal Motor Transport Authority). The regulations for auxiliary headlights are found in the road traffic licensing regulations (e.g. StVZO § 52, StVZO § 21a and StVZO § 22a).
Work lights have no regulation regarding their position on the vehicle and their number, but they are not permitted for use in public road traffic and can only be used off-road. The selected lighting device for the high beam may only emit white light that, in total with the other headlights, does not exceed a reference value of 100.
In conclusion, while auxiliary headlights can significantly enhance visibility in specific driving conditions, it is crucial to ensure they comply with the regulations set by the German Road Traffic Licensing Regulations and the UN/ECE regulation R48.
Read also:
- Trump's SNAP reductions and New York City Council's grocery delivery legislation: Problems for city residents highlighted
- Reducing dental expenses for elderlies in Sweden: Over 50% cut in charges for pensioners by the government
- Forty-year-old diet: A list of meal choices to savor
- Exiled Life's Conundrum: A Blend of Liberation, Disillusionment, and Distress
