1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 1
This document is meant purely as a documentation tool and the institutions do not assume any liability for its contents
►B COUNCILDIRECTIVE
of27July1976
ontheapproximationofthelawsoftheMemberStatesrelatingtotheinstallationoflightingand
light-signallingdevicesonmotorvehiclesandtheir trailers
(76/756/EEC)
(OJ L 262, 27.9.1976, p. 1)
Amended by:
Official Journal
No page date
►M1Commission Directive 80/233/EEC of 21 November 1979 L 51 8 25.2.1980
►M2Commission Directive 82/244/EEC of 17 March 1982 L 109 31 22.4.1982
►M3Council Directive 83/276/EEC of 26 May 1983 L 151 47 9.6.1983
►M4Commission Directive 84/8/EEC of 14 December 1983 L 9 24 12.1.1984
►M5Commission Directive 89/278/EEC of 28 March 1989 L 109 38 20.4.1989
►M6Commission Directive 91/663/EEC of 10 December 1991 L 366 17 31.12.1991
Corrected by:
►C1Corrigendum, OJ L 111, 30.4.1980, p. 22 (80/233/EEC)
►C2Corrigendum, OJ L 131, 17.5.1984, p. 50 (84/8/EEC)
►C3Corrigendum, OJ L 135, 22.5.1984, p. 27 (84/8/EEC)
▼B
COUNCILDIRECTIVE
of27July1976
on the approximationof the lawsofthe Member States relating to
the installation of lighting and light-signalling devices on motor
vehiclesandtheirtrailers
(76/756/EEC)
THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES,
Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Economic
Community, and in particular Article 100 thereof,
Having regard to the proposal from the Commission,
Having regard to the opinion of the European Parliament(1),
Having regard to the opinion of the Economic and Social
Committee(2),
Whereas the technical requirements which motor vehicles must satisfy
pursuant to national laws relate inter alia to the installation of lighting
and light-signalling devices;
Whereasthos e requirementsdiffer from one Member State to another;
whereas it is therefore necessary that all Member States adopt the samerequirements either in addition to or in place of their existing rules, inorder, in particular, to allow the EEC type-approval proccedure whichwasthe s ubject of Council Directive 70/156/EEC of 6 February 1970on the approximation of the lawsof the Member Statesrelating to the
type-approval of motor vehiclesand their trailers (
3), to be introduced
in respect of each type of vehicle;
Whereascommon requirementsfor the cons truction of lighting and
light-signalling devices will be the subject of further special Directives;
Whereasapproximation of the national lawsrelating to motor vehicles
entailsmutual recognition by the Member Statesof the checkscarriedout by each of them on the basis of the common requirements;whereas, if the system is to function properly, these requirements
must be applied from the same date,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DIRECTIVE:
Article 1
For the purposes of this Directive, ‘vehicle’ means any vehicle to
which Council Directive 70/156/EEC applies.
Article 2
1. With effect from 1 January 1993, no Member State may:
— refuse, in respect of a type of vehicle, to grant EC type-approval, to
issue the document referred to in the last indent of Article 10 (1) ofDirective 70/156/EEC, or to grant national type-approval, or
— prohibit the entry into service of vehicles
on grounds relating to the installation of the lighting and light-signal-
ling devices on this type of vehicle or on these vehicles if thesedevicesare ins talled in accordance with the requirementsof thisDirec-tive.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 2
(1) OJ No C 55, 13. 5. 1974, p. 14.
(2) OJ No C 109, 19. 9. 1974, p. 22.
(3) OJ No L 42, 23. 2. 1970, p. 1.▼M6
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2. With effect from 1 October 1993, Member States:
— shall no longer issue the document referred to in the last indent of
Article 10 (1) of Directive 70/156/EEC, and
— may refuse to grant national type-approval
in respect of a type of vehicle on which the installation of the lighting
and light-signalling devices is not in accordance with the requirementsof thisDirective.
3. With effect from 1 October 1994, Member Statesmay prohibit
the first entry into service of vehicles on which the installation of thesedevicesisnot in accordance with the requirementsof thisDirective.
Article 3
A Member State which hasgranted EC type-approval s hall take the
necessary measures to ensure that it is informed of any modificationto any partsor characteris ticsreferred to in item 1.1 of Annex I. The
competent authoritiesof that Member State s hall determine whether
further tests should be carried out on the modified vehicle type and afresh report drawn up. Where such tests reveal failure to comply withthe requirementsof thisDirective, the modification s hall not beapproved.
Article 4
Any amendments necessary in order to adapt the content of the
Annexes to this Directive to take account of technical progress shall
be adopted in accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 13
of Directive 70/156/EEC.
Article 5
1. Member States shall bring into force the legislative, regulatory
and administrative provisions necessary in order to comply with thisDirective before 1 January 1993 and shall forthwith inform theCommission thereof.
2. When the Member States adopt these provisions they shall make
a reference to thisDirective in their official publication. The form of
this reference shall be determined by the Member States.
3. Member States shall ensure that the terms of the main provisions
of national law which they adopt in the field covered by thisDirectiveare communicated to the Commission.
Article►
M16◄
This Directive is addressed to the Member States.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 3
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ANNEX I
INSTALLATIONOFLIGHTINGANDLIGHT-SIGNALLINGDEVICES
1. DEFINITIONS
For the purposes of this Directive:
1.1. ‘Vehicle type with regard to the installation of lighting and
light-signallingdevices’
means vehicles which do not differ in the essential respects
mentioned in items1.1.1 to 1.1.4.
The following are likewise considered not to be ‘vehicles of a
different type’: vehicleswhich differ within the meaning of items
1.1.1 to 1.1.4, but not in such a way as to entail a change in the
kind, number, positioning and geometric visibility of the lamps
and the inclination of the dipped beam prescribed for the vehicle
type in question, and vehicles on which optional lamps are fitted
or are absent;
1.1.1. the dimensions and the external shape of the vehicle;1.1.2. the number and positioning of the devices;
1.1.3. the headlamp-levelling system;
1.1.4. the suspension system.
1.2. ‘Transverseplane’
meansa vertical plane perpendicular to the median longitudinal
plane of the vehicle.
1.3. ‘Unladenvehicle’
meansthe vehicle in running order, asdefined in item 2.6 of
Annex I, model information document, to Directive 70/156/
EEC, but without driver.
1.4. ‘Ladenvehicle’
means the vehicle loaded to its technically permissible maximum
mass, as stated by the manufacturer, who shall also fix the distri-
bution of thismas sbetween the axlesin accordance with the
method described in Appendix 1.
1.5. ‘Device’
means an element or an assembly of elements used to perform
one or more functions.
1.6. ‘Lightsourcewithregardtofilamentlamps’
means the filament itself. (Where a lamp has several filaments,
each one shall constitute a light source).
1.7. ‘Lamp’
meansa device des igned to illuminate the road or to emit a light
signal. Rear registration plate lamps and retro reflectors are like-
wise regarded as lamps.
1.7.1. ‘Equivalent lamps’
meanslampshaving the s ame function and authorized in the
country in which the vehicle is registered; such lamps may have
different characteristics from those installed on the vehicle when
it is approved on condition that they satisfy the requirements of
thisAnnex.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 4
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1.7.2. ‘Single-function lamp’
meansa part of a device which performsa s ingle lighting or
light-signalling function.
1.7.3. ‘Independent lamps’ (1)
means devices having separate illuminating surfaces, separate
light sources and separate lamp bodies.
1.7.4. ‘Grouped lamps’ (1)
means devices having separate illuminating surfaces and separate
light sources, but a common lamp body.
1.7.5. ‘Combined lamps’ (1)
means devices having separate illuminating surfaces, but a
common light source and a common lamp body.
1.7.6. ‘Reciprocally incorporated lamps’ (1)
Means devices having separate light sources or a single light
source operating under different conditions (e.g. optical, mechan-
ical or electrical differences), totally or partially common
illuminating surfaces and a common lamp body.
1.7.7. ‘Concealable lamp’
meansa lamp capable of being partly or completely hidden when
not in use. This result may be achieved by means of a movable
cover, by displacement of the lamp or by any other suitable
means. The term ‘retractable’ is used more particularly to
describe a concealable lamp, the displacement of which enables
it to be inserted within the bodywork.
1.7.8. ‘Main-beam headlamp’
means the lamp used to illuminate the road over a long distance
ahead of the vehicle.
1.7.9. ‘Dipped-beam headlamp’
meansthe lamp us ed to illuminate the road ahead of the vehicle
without causing undue dazzle or discomfort to oncoming drivers
and other road-users.
1.7.10. ‘Front fog lamp’
meansthe lamp us ed to improve the illumination of the road in
case of fog, snowfall, rainstorms or dust clouds.
1.7.11. ‘Reversing lamp’
meansthe lamp us ed to illuminate the road to the rear of the
vehicle and to warn other road-users that the vehicle is reversing
or about to reverse.
1.7.12. ‘Direction indicator lamp’
means the lamp used to indicate to other road-users that the
driver intendsto change direction to the right or to the left.
1.7.13. ‘Hazard warning signal’
meansthe s imultaneousoperation of all of a vehicle'sdirection
indicator lampsto draw attention to the fact that the vehicle
temporarily constitutes a special danger to other road-users.
1.7.14. ‘Stop lamp’
means the lamp used to indicate to other road-users to the rear of
the vehicle that the latter'sdriver isapplying the s ervice brake.
1.7.15. ‘Rear registration plate lamp’
means the device used to illuminate the space intended to
accommodate the rear registration plate; it may consist of
different optical elements.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 5
(1) In the case of lighting devices for the rear number plate and the direction indicators
(category 5), replace ‘illuminating surface’ by ‘light-emitting surface’ in the absence
of an illuminating surface.
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1.7.16. ‘Front position lamp’
means the lamp used to indicate the presence and the width of
the vehicle when viewed from the front.
1.7.17. ‘Rear position lamp’
means the lamp used to indicate the presence and the width of
the vehicle when viewed from the rear.
1.7.18. ‘Rear fog lamp’
means the lamp used to render the vehicle more readily visible
from the rear in dense fog.
1.7.19. ‘Parking lamp’
means the lamp used to draw attention to the presence of a
stationary vehicle in a built-up area. In such circumstances it
replaces the front and rear position lamps.
1.7.20. ‘End-outline marker lamp’
meansthe lamp fitted to the extreme outer edge asclos e as
possible to the top of the vehicle and intended clearly to indicate
the vehicle'soverall width. Thislamp isintended, for certain
vehiclesand trailers , to complement the vehicle'sfront and rear
position lamps by drawing particular attention to its bulk.
1.7.21. ‘Side-marker lamp’
means a lamp used to indicate the presence of the vehicle when
viewed from the side.
1.7.22. ‘Retro reflector’
means a device used to indicate the presence of a vehicle by the
reflection of light emanating from a light source not connected to
the vehicle, the observer being situated near the source.
For the purposes of this Directive the following are not consid-
ered asretro reflectors :
— retro-reflecting number plates,
— the retro-reflecting signals mentioned in the ADR (European
Agreement concerning the international carriage of dangerous
goodsby road),
— other retro-reflecting plates and signals which must be used
to comply with a Member State's specifications for use as
regardscertain categoriesof vehiclesor certain modesof
operation.
1.8. ‘Light-emittingsurface’
means all or part of the exterior surface of the translucent mate-
rial which helpsto confer on the light itsparticular photometric
and colorimetric properties. When only part of the exterior
surface emits light, the light-emitting surface shall, in case of
doubt, be specified by the competent authority after consultation
with the vehicle and/or component manufacturer.
1.9. Illuminatingsurfaces
1.9.1. ‘Illuminating surface of a lighting device’ (Item 1.7.8 to 1.7.11)
meansthe orthogonal projection of the full aperture of the
reflector in a transverse plane. If the lighting device has no
reflector, the definition of item 1.9.2 shall be applied. If the
light-emitting surface of the lamp extends over a part only of
the full aperture of the reflector, then the projection of that part
only istaken into account.
In the case of a dipped-beam headlamp, the illuminating surface
islimited by the apparent trace of the cut-off on to the lens . If
the reflector and lensare adjus table relative to one another, the
mean adjustment should be used.
1.9.2. ‘Illuminating surface of a signalling lamp other than a retro
reflector’ (Items1.7.12 to 1.7.21)
meansthe orthogonal projection of the lamp in a plane perpendi-
cular to itsaxisof reference and in contact with the exterior
light-emitting surface of the lamp, this projection being bounded1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 6
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by the edges of the screens situated in this plane, each allowing
only 98 % of the total luminous intensity of the light to persist in
the direction of the axisof reference.
To determine the lower, upper and lateral limitsof the illumi-
nating surface, only screens with horizontal or vertical edges
shall be used.
1.9.3. ‘Illuminating surface of a retro reflector’ (Items1.7.22)
meansthe illuminating s urface of a retro reflector in a plane
perpendicular to the axisof reference and bounded by planes
touching the outer edgesof the light projection s urface of the
retro reflector and parallel to thisaxis . To determine the lower,
upper and lateral limitsof the illuminating s urface, only vertical
and horizontal planes shall be used.
1.10. ‘Apparentsurface’
for a defined direction of observation, means the orthogonal
projection of the light-emitting surface in a plane perpendicular
to the direction of observation (see drawing in Appendix 2) and
tangential to the most exterior point of the lens.
1.11. ‘Axisofreference’
means the characteristic axis of the light signal, determined by
the manufacturer for use as the direction of reference (H = 0º,
V = 0º) for anglesof field for photometric meas urementsand
when fitting the lamp on the vehicle.
1.12. ‘Centreofreference’
meansthe inters ection of the axisof reference with the light-
emitting surface. This centre of reference is to be specified by
the manufacturer of the lamp.
1.13. ‘Anglesofgeometric visibility’
meansthe angleswhich determine the field of the minimum
solid angle in which the apparent surface of the lamp must be
visible. That field of the solid angle is determined by the
segments of the sphere of which the centre coincides with the
centre of reference of the lamp and the equator isparallel with
the ground. These segments are determined in relation to the
axisof reference. The horizontal angles βcorrespond to the long-
itude and the vertical angles αto the latitude.
There must be no obstacle on the inside of the angles of
geometric visibility to the propagation of light from any part of
the apparent surface of the lamp observed from infinity.
If measurements are taken closer to the lamp, there must be a
parallel shift in the direction of observation to achieve the same
accuracy.
No account shall be taken of obstacles on the inside of the angles
of geometric visibility, if they were already present when the
lamp wastype-approved.
If, when the lamp is installed, any part of the apparent surface of
the lamp ishidden by any further partsof the vehicle, proof s hall
be furnished that the part of the lamp not hidden by obstacles
still conforms to the photometric values prescribed for the
approval of the device asan optical unit (s ee figure below).1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 7
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1.14. ‘Extremeouteredge’
on either side of the vehicle means the plane parallel to the
median longitudinal plane of the vehicle and touching itslateral
outer edge, disregarding the projection:
1.14.1. of tyresnear their point of contact with the ground and connec-
tions for tyre pressure gauges;
1.14.2. of anti-skid devices which may be mounted on the wheels;
1.14.3. of rear-view mirrors;
1.14.4. of side direction indicator lamps, end-outline marker lamps, front
and rear position lamps, parking lamps, retro reflectors and side-
marker lamps;
1.14.5. of customs seals affixed to the vehicle and devices for securing
and protecting such seals.
1.15. ‘Overallwidth’
meansthe dis tance between the two vertical planesdefined in
item 1.14.
1.16. A‘singlelamp’
meansa device or part of a device, having one function and one
illuminating surface and one or more light sources. For the
purpose of installation on a vehicle, a ‘single lamp’ also means
any assembly of two independent or grouped lamps, whether
identical or not, having the same function, if they are installed
such that the projections of the illuminating surfaces of the lamps
on a given transverse plane occupy not less than 60 % of the
smallest rectangle circumscribing the projections of the said illu-
minating surfaces.
In such a case, each of these lamps shall, where approval is
required, be approved as a type ‘D’ lamp. This possible combi-
nation doesnot apply to main-beam headlamps , dipped-beam
headlampsand front fog lamps .1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 8
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1.17. ‘Twolampsoranevennumberoflamps’
means a single light-emitting surface in the shape of a band if
placed symmetrically in relation to the median longitudinal plane
of the vehicle and extending on both sides to within not less than
400 mm of the extreme outer edge of the vehicle, and being not
less than 800 mm long. The illumination of such a surface shall
be provided by not less than two light sources placed as close as
possible to its ends. The light-emitting surface may be consti-
tuted by a number of juxtaposed elements on condition that the
projections of the several individual light-emitting surfaces on
the same transverse plane occupy not less than 60 % of the area
of the smallest rectangle circumscribing the projections of those
individual light-emitting surfaces.
1.18. ‘Distancebetweentwolamps’
which face in the same direction means the shortest distance
between the orthogonal projectionsin a plane perpendicular to
the axesof reference of the outlinesof the two illuminating
surfaces as defined according to the case mentioned in item 1.9.
The distance between two lamps may, however, be measured
without determining the outlinesof the illuminating s urfaces
exactly, where the distance is clearly in excess of the minimum
requirementsof the Directive.
1.19. ‘Optionallamp’
means a lamp the presence of which is left to the discretion of
the vehicle manufacturer.
1.20. ‘Operationaltell-tale’
meansa light or auditory device s howing whether a device that
hasbeen actuated isoperating correctly or not.
1.21. ‘Circuit-closedtell-tale’
means a light showing that a device has been switched on but
not showing whether it is operating correctly or not.
1.22. ‘Ground’
means the surface on which the vehicle stands, which should be
substantially horizontal.
1.23. ‘Movablecomponents’
of the vehicle means those body panels or other vehicle parts, the
position of which can be changed by tilting, rotating or sliding
without the use of tools. They do not include tiltable driver cabs.
1.24. ‘Normalpositionofuseofamovablecomponent’
means the position(s) of a movable component specified by the
vehicle manufacturer for the normal condition of use and the
park condition of the vehicle.
1.25. ‘Normalconditionofuseofavehicle’
means:
1.25.1. for a motor vehicle, when the vehicle isready to move with its
propulsion engine running and its movable components in the
normal position(s) as defined in item 1.24;
1.25.2. and for a trailer, when the trailer isconnected to a drawing
vehicle in the condition asdes cribed in item 1.25.1 and its
movable components are in the normal position(s) as defined in
item 1.24.
1.26. ‘Parkconditionofavehicle’
means:
1.26.1. for a motor vehicle, when the vehicle is at a standstill and its
propulsion engine is not running and its movable components
are in the normal position(s) as defined in item 1.24;1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 9
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1.26.2. and for a trailer, when the trailer isconnected to a drawing
vehicle in the condition asdes cribed in item 1.26.1 and its
movable components are in the normal position(s) as defined in
item 1.24.
2. APPLICATION FOR EC TYPE-APPROVAL
2.1. The application for EC approval of a vehicle type with regard to
the installation of its lighting and light-signalling devices shall be
submitted by the vehicle manufacturer or his representative.
2.2. It shall be accompanied by the following documents in triplicate,
and by the following particulars:
2.2.1. a description of the vehicle type in accordance with the points
listed in 1.1, together with the restrictions on loading, particu-
larly the maximum permissible load in the boot;
2.2.2. a list of devices prescribed by the manufacturer for the lighting
and light-signalling assembly. The list may include several types
of device for each operation. Each type must be duly identified
(component type-approval mark, name of manufacturer, etc.);
2.2.3. layout drawing of the lighting and light-signalling equipment as
a whole, showing the position of the various lamps on the
vehicle;
2.2.4. if necessary, in order to verify conformity to the requirements of
the present Directive, layout drawing(s) for each individual lamp
showing the illuminating surface as defined in items 1.9.1, 1.9.2
and 1.9.3, the light-emitting surface as defined in item 1.8, the
axisof reference asdefined in item 1.11 and the centre of refer-
ence as defined in item 1.12. This information is not necessary in
the case of the rear registration plate lamp (item 1.7.15).
2.3. An unladen vehicle fitted with lighting and light-signalling
equipment as described in item 2.2.2 and representative of the
vehicle type to be approved, must be submitted to the technical
authority conducting approval tests.
2.4. The document provided for in Annex II shall be attached to the
type-approval document.
3. GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
3.1. Without prejudice to the provisions of this Annex, solely the
installation of the lighting and light-signalling devices defined
in items 1.7.8 to 1.7.22 shall be permitted. The installation of
any other lighting or light-signalling device is consequently
prohibited.
3.2. The lighting and light-signalling devices must be so fitted that
under normal conditionsof us e asdefined in items1.25, 1.25.1
and 1.25.2, and notwithstanding any vibration to which they may
be subjected, they retain the characteristics laid down in this
Annex and enable the vehicle to comply with the requirements
of this Annex. In particular, it shall not be possible for the
adjustment of the lamps to be inadvertently disturbed.
3.3. The illuminating lampsdes cribed in items1.7.8, 1.7.9 and 1.7.10
must be so fitted that a correct setting of their alignment can
easily be performed.
3.4. For all light-signalling devices, including those mounted on the
side panels, the reference axis of the lamp when fitted to the
vehicle must be parallel to the bearing plane of the vehicle on
the road; in addition it must be perpendicular to the median long-
itudinal plane of the vehicle in the case of side retro reflectors
and of side-marker lamps and parallel to that plane in the case
of all other signalling devices. In each direction a tolerance of
± 3º shall be allowed. In addition, any specific instructions as
regardsfitting laid down by the manufacturer mus t be complied
with.
3.5. In the absence of specific requirements, the height and alignment
of the lampss hall be checked with the unladen vehicle placed ona flat, horizontal surface under the conditions defined in items
1.25, 1.25.1 and 1.25.2.
3.6. In the absence of specific requirements, lamps constituting a pair
shall:1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 10
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3.6.1. be fitted to the vehicle symmetrically in relation to the median
longitudinal plane (this estimate to be based on the exterior
geometrical form of the lamp and not on the edge of itsillumi-
nating surface referred to in items 1.9.1, 1.9.2 and 1.9.3);
3.6.2. be symmetrical to one another in relation to the median longitu-
dinal plane; thisrequirement isnot valid with regard to the
interior structure of the lamp;
3.6.3. satisfy the same colorimetric characteristics;3.6.4. have substantially identical photometric characteristics.3.7. On vehicles whose external shape is asymmetrical, the above
requirements shall be satisfied as far as possible.
3.8. Lampshaving different functionsmay be independent or be
grouped, combined or reciprocally incorporated in one device,
provided that each such lamp complies with the requirements
applicable to it.
3.9. The maximum height above ground shall be measured from the
highest point and the minimum height from the lowest point of
the illuminating surface.
In the case of dipped headlamps, the minimum height in relation
to the ground is measured from the lowest edge of the reflector.
3.9.1. The position, as regards width, shall be determined from the
edge of the illuminating surface which is the furthest from the
median longitudinal plane of the vehicle when referred to the
overall width, and from the inner edgesof the illuminating
surfaces when referred to the distance between the lamps.
3.10. In the absence of specific requirements no lamps other than
direction indicator lampsand the hazard warning s ignal may
emit a flashing light.
3.11. No red light which could give rise to confusion shall be emitted
from a lamp asdefined in item 1.7 in a forward direction and no
white light which could give rise to confusion, other than from
the reversing lamp, shall be emitted from a lamp as defined in
item 1.7 in a rearward direction. No account shall be taken of
lighting devicesfitted in the interior of the vehicle. In cas e of
doubt, this requirement shall be verified as follows:
3.11.1. for the visibility of red light towards the front: there must be no
direct visibility of the light-emitting surface of a red lamp if
viewed by an observer moving within Zone 1 in a transverse
plane situated 25 m in front of the vehicle (see Appendix 3,
Figure 1);
3.11.2. for the visibility of white light towards the rear: there must be no
direct visibility of the light-emitting surface of a white lamp if
viewed by an observer moving within Zone 2 in a transverse
plane situated 25 m behind the vehicle (see Appendix 3, Figure
2).
3.11.3. Zones 1 and 2, as seen by the observer, are limited in their
respective planes as follows:
3.11.3.1. asregardsheight, by two horizontal planeswhich are 1 and 2.2 m
respectively above the ground;
3.11.3.2. asregardswidth, by two vertical planeswhich make an angle of
15º towards the front and rear respectively, and outside the
vehicle by reference to the median plane of the vehicle, passing
through the point (or points) of contacts of vertical planes which
are parallel to the median longitudinal plane of the vehicle, and
limiting the overall width of the vehicle.
If there are several points of contact, the one which is furthest
forward shall correspond to the front plane and the one furthest
rearward shall correspond to the rear plane.
3.12. The electrical connections must be such that the front and rear
position lamps, the end-outline marker lamps, where fitted, the
side-marker lamps, where fitted, and the rear registration plate
lamp can only be switched on and off simultaneously.
This requirement shall not apply when using front and rear posi-
tion lamps, as well as side-marker lamps combined or
reciprocally incorporated with said lamps, as parking lamps.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 11
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3.13. The electrical connections must be such that the main-beam and
dipped-beam headlampsand the front fog lampscannot be
switched on unless the lamps referred to in item 3.12 are also
switched on. This requirement shall not apply, however, to
main-beam or dipped-beam headlampswhen their luminous
warnings consist of the intermittent lighting up at short intervals
of the main-beam headlamp or the intermittent lighting up at
short intervals of the dipped-beam headlamp or the alternate
lighting up at short intervals of the main-beam and dipped-beam
headlamps.
3.14. The coloursof the light emitted by the lampsare the following:
— main-beam headlamp: white
— dipped-beam headlamp: white— front fog lamp: white or yellow
— reversing lamp: white
— direction indicator lamp: amber— hazard warning signal: amber
— stop lamp: red
— rear registration plate lamp: white— front position lamp: white
— rear position lamp: red
— rear fog lamp: red— parking lamp: white in front, red at the rear, amber if
incorporated in the side direction indi-
cator lampsor in the s ide-marker lamps
— side-marker lamp: amber; however, it may be red if the
rearmost side-marker lamp is grouped or
combined or reciprocally incorporated
with the rear position lamp, the rear end-
outline marker lamp, the rear fog lamp,
the stop lamp or is grouped or has part
of the light-emitting surface in common
with the rear retro reflector
— end-outline marker lamp: white in front, red at the rear
— rear retro reflector, non-triangular: red
— rear retro reflector, triangular: red— front retro reflector, non-triangular (
1) identical to incident light
— side retro reflector, non-triangular amber; however, it may be red if the
rearmost side retro reflector is grouped
or haspart of the light-emitting s urface
in common with the rear position lamp,
the rear end-outline marker lamp, the
rear fog lamp, the stop lamp or the red
rearmost side-marker lamp.
(1) Also known as ‘white’ or ‘colourless’ reflector.
3.15. The function of the circuit-closed tell-tales may be fulfilled by
operational tell-tales.
3.16. Concealablelamps
3.16.1. The concealment of lampss hall be prohibited, with the exception
of the main-beam headlamp, the dipped-beam headlamp and the
front fog lamp, which may be concealed when not in use.
3.16.2. In the event of any failure affecting the operationsof the
concealment device(s) the lamps shall remain in the position of
use, if already in use, or shall be capable of being moved into
the position of use without the aid of tools.
3.16.3. It must be possible to move the lamps into the position of use
and to switch them on by means of a single control, without
excluding the possibility of moving them into the position of
use without switching them on.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 12
▼M6
However, in the case of grouped main-beam and dipped-beam
headlamps, the control referred to above is required only to acti-
vate the dipped-beam headlamps.
3.16.4. It must not be possible deliberately, from the driver's seat, to
stop the movement of switched-on lamps before they reach the
position of use. If there is a danger of dazzling other road users
by the movement of the lamps, they may light up only when they
have reached their position of use.
3.16.5. At temperaturesof − 30 to + 50 ºC a lamp mus t be capable of
reaching the position of use within three seconds of initial opera-
tion of the control.
3.17. Numberoflamps
The number of lampsmounted on the vehicle s hall be equal to
the number(s) specified in subitem 2 of items 4.1 to 4.18.
3.18. Except asprovided by items3.19, 3.20 and 3.22, lampsmay be
installed on movable components.
3.19. Rear position lamps, rear direction indicator lamps and rear retro
reflectors , triangular aswell asnon-triangular, mus t not be
installed on movable components. Should the above functions
be obtained by an assembly of two lamps marked ‘D’ (see item
1.16), only one of these lamps need be installed on the non-
movable part of the vehicle.
3.20. There must not be any movable component, with or without a
light signalling device installed on it, which in any fixed position
hidesmore than 50 % of the apparent s urface of front and rear
position lamps, front and rear direction indicator lamps and retro
reflectorswhen viewed in a direction parallel to the longitudinal
axisof the vehicle.
If thisisnot practicable:
3.20.1. a remark in item 16 of the document in Annex II shall inform
other administrations that more than 50 % of the apparent
surface can be hidden by the movable components;
3.20.2. in the case of item 3.20.1 a notice in the vehicle shall inform the
user that in certain position(s) of the movable components other
road users shall be warned of the presence of the vehicle on the
road; for example by meansof a warning triangle or other
devicesaccording to national requirementsfor us e on the road.
3.21. When the movable componentsare in a pos ition other than a
‘normal position’ as defined in item 1.24 the devices installed
on them shall not cause indue discomfort to road users.
3.22. When a lamp isins talled on a movable component and the
movable component is in the normal position(s) of use (see
item 1.24), the lamp must always return to the position(s) speci-
fied by the manufacturer in accordance with thisAnnex. In the
case of dipped-beam headlamps and front fog lamps, this
requirement shall be considered satisfied if, when the movable
componentsare moved and returned to the normal pos ition 10
times, no value of the angle inclination of these lamps, relative
to its support, measured after each operation of the movable
component, differsby more than 0,15 % from the average of
the 10 measured values.
3.23. Lampsmay be grouped, combined or reciprocally incorporated
with one another provided that all requirementsregarding colour,
position, alignment, geometric visibility, electrical connections
and ‘other requirements’, if any, for each lamp, are fulfilled.
3.24. With the exception of retro reflectors, a lamp even bearing an
approval mark shall be deemed not to be present when it cannot
be made to operate by the sole installation of a filament lamp.
4. INDIVIDUAL SPECIFICATIONS
4.1. Main-beamheadlamps
4.1.1. Presence
Mandatory on motor vehicles.Prohibited on trailers.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 13
▼M6
4.1.2. Number
Two or four.Where a vehicle isfitted with four concealable main-beam head-
lampsthe ins tallation of two additional main-beam headlamps
shall only be authorized for the purpose of light signalling (as
defined in item 3.13) in daylight.
4.1.3. Arrangement
No individual specifications.
4.1.4. Position
4.1.4.1. Width:
the outer edges of the illuminating surface must in no case be
closer to the extreme outer edge of the vehicle than the outer
edges of the illuminating surface of the dipped-beam headlamps.
4.1.4.2. Height:
no individual specifications.
4.1.4.3. Length:
at the front of the vehicle and fitted in such a way that the light
emitted does not cause discomfort to the driver either directly or
indirectly through the rear-view mirrorsand/or other reflecting
surfaces of the vehicles.
4.1.5. Geometric visibility
The visibility of the illuminating surface, including its visibility
in areaswhich do not appear to be illuminated in the direction of
observation considered, must be ensured within a divergent space
defined by generating linesbas ed on the perimeter of the illumi-
nating surface and forming an angle of not less than 5º with the
axisof reference of the headlamp. The origin of the anglesof
geometric visibility is the perimeter of the projection of the illu-
minating surface on a transverse plane tangent to the foremost
part of the lensof the headlamp.
4.1.6. Alignment
Towardsthe front.
Apart from the devices necessary to maintain correct adjustment,
and when there are two pairs of headlamps, one pair, consisting
of headlampsfunctioning asmain-beam headlampsonly may
swivel, according to the angle of lock of the steering, about an
axisvery near the vertical.
4.1.7. Electrical connections
4.1.7.1. The main-beam headlamps may be switched on either simulta-
neously or in pairs. For changing over from the dipped to the
main beam at least one pair of main beams must be switched
on. For changing over from the main to the dipped beam all
main-beam headlamps must be switched off simultaneously.
4.1.7.2. The dipped beams may remain switched on at the same time as
the main beams.
4.1.7.3. Where four concealable main-beam headlampsare fitted their
raised position must prevent the simultaneous operation of any
additional main-beam headlampsfitted, if thes e are intended to
provide light signals (as defined in item 3.13) in daylight.
4.1.8. Circuit-closed tell-tale
Mandatory.
4.1.9. Other requirements
4.1.9.1. The aggregate maximum intensity of the headlamp beams which
can be switched on simultaneously must not exceed 225 000 cd.
4.1.9.2. This maximum intensity shall be obtained by adding together the
individual maximum intensities measured at the time of compo-
nent type-approval and shown on the relevant approval
certificates.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 14
▼M6
4.2. Dipped-beamheadlamps
4.2.1. Presence
Mandatory on motor vehicles.Prohibited on trailers.
4.2.2. Number
Two.
4.2.3. Arrangement
No individual specifications.
4.2.4. Position
4.2.4.1. Width:
the edge of the illuminating surface which is farthest from the
vehicle'smedian longitudinal plane mus t be not more than
400 mm from the extreme outer edge of the vehicle.
The inner edges of the illuminating surfaces must not be less
than 600 mm apart.
Thisdis tance may be reduced to 400 mm where the overall
width of the vehicle isles sthan 1 300 mm.
4.2.4.2. Height:
above the ground: not less than 500 mm and not more than
1 200 mm.
4.2.4.3. Length:
at the front of the vehicle; thisrequirement s hall be regarded as
satisfied if the light emitted does not cause discomfort to thedriver either directly, or indirectly through the rear-view mirrors
and/or other reflecting surfaces of the vehicle.
4.2.5. Geometric visibility
Defined by angles αandβass pecified in item 1.13.
α= 15º upwardsand 10º downwards ,
β= 45º outwardsand 10º inwards .
Since the photometric valuesrequired for dipped-beam head-
lampsdo not cover the full geometric field of vis ion, a
minimum value of 1 cd in the space remaining is required for
type-approval purposes. The presence of panels or other items
of equipment near the light must not give rise to secondary
effects causing discomfort to other road users.
4.2.6. Alignment
4.2.6.1. After adjustment of the initial inclination, the vertical inclination
of the dipped beam, expressed in percent, shall be measured in
static conditions under all the loading conditions defined in
Appendix 1.
The initial downward inclination of the cut-off of the dipped
beam to be set in the unladen vehicle state with one person in
the driver's seat shall be specified to within 0,1 % by the vehicle
manufacturer and indicated in a clearly legible and indelible
manner on each vehicle close to either headlamps or the manu-
facturer's plate by the symbol shown in Appendix 6.
The value of thisindicated downward inclination isdefined in
item 4.2.6.1.1.
4.2.6.1.1. Depending on the mounting height in meters(h) of the lower
edge of the illuminating surface of the dipped-beam headlamp,
measured on the unladen vehicle, the vertical inclination of the
cut-off of the dipped beam shall, under all the static conditions
of Appendix 1, remain between the following limitsand the
initial aiming shall have the following values:
h < 0,80limits: between − 0,5 % and − 2,5 %
initial aiming: between − 1,0 % and − 1,5 %;
0,80≤h≤0,901976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 15
▼M6
limits: between − 0,5 % and − 2,5 %
initial aiming: between − 1,0 % and − 1,5 %,
or, at the discretion of the vehicle manufacturer
limits: between − 1,0 % and − 3,0 %
initial aiming: between − 1,5 % and − 2,0 %;
the application for EC vehicle type-approval shall, in this case,
contain information asto which of the two alternativesisto be
used;
h > 0,90
limits: between − 1,0 % and − 3,0 %
initial aiming: between − 1,5 % and − 2,0 %.
The above limitsand the initial aiming valuesare s ummarized in
the diagram below.
4.2.6.2. The preceding condition may be satisfied by means of a device
acting on the relative position of the headlamp and the vehicle.
In the case of this device failing the beam must not return to a
position less inclined downwards than its position at the time of
failure of the device.
4.2.6.2.1. The device mentioned in item 4.2.6.2 must be automatic.
4.2.6.2.2. Devices which are adjusted manually, either continuously or
non-continuously, shall nevertheless be permitted, provided they
have a stop position at which the lamps can be returned to the
initial inclination defined in item 4.2.6.1 by meansof the us ual
adjusting screws. These manually adjustable devices must be
operable from the driving seat. Continually adjustable devices
must have reference marks indicating the loading conditions
that require adjustment of the dipped beam.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 16
▼M6
The number of positions on devices which are not continuously
adjustable must be such as to ensure compliance with the range
of valuess pecified in item 4.2.6.1.1 in all the loading conditions
defined in Appendix 1.
For these devices also, the loading conditions of Appendix 1 that
require adjustment of the dipped beam shall be clearly marked
near the control of the device (see Appendix 7).
4.2.6.2.3. The measurement of the variation of dipped-beam inclination as
a function of load must be carried out in accordance with the test
procedure set out in Appendix 5.
4.2.7. Electrical connections
The control for changing over to the dipped beam must switch
off all main-beam headlamps simultaneously.
The dipped beams may remain switched on at the same time as
the main beams.
4.2.8. Circuit-closed tell-tale
Optional.
4.2.9. Other requirements
The requirementsof item 3.6.2 s hall not apply to dipped-beam
headlamps.
Dipped-beam headlamps shall not swivel according to the angle
of lock of the steering.
4.3. Frontfoglamps
4.3.1. Presence
Optional on motor vehicles.Prohibited on trailers.
4.3.2. Number
Two.
4.3.3. Arrangement
No individual specifications.
4.3.4. Position
4.3.4.1. Width:
the point on the illuminating surface which is farthest from the
vehicle'smedian longitudinal plane mus t be not more than
400 mm from the extreme outer edge of the vehicle.
4.3.4.2. Height:
not less than 250 mm above the ground.
No point on the illuminating surface must be higher than the
highest: point on the illuminating surface of the dipped-beamheadlamp.
4.3.4.3. Length:
at the front of the vehicle: this requirement shall be considered to
be satisfied if the light emitted does not cause discomfort to the
driver either directly or indirectly through the rear-view mirrors
and/or other reflecting surfaces of the vehicle.
4.3.5. Geometric visibility
Defined by angles αandβass pecified in item 1.13.
α= 5º upwardsand downwards ,
β= 45º outwardsand 10º inwards .
4.3.6. Alignment
The alignment of the front fog lampsmus t not vary according to
the angle of lock of the steering.
They must be directed forwards without causing undue dazzle or
discomfort to oncoming drivers and other road users.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 17
▼M6
4.3.7. Electrical connections
It must be possible to switch the front fog lamps on and off inde-
pendently of the main-beam headlamps, the dipped-beamheadlampsor any combination of main- and dipped-beam head-
lamps.
4.3.8. Circuit-closed tell-tale
Optional.
4.4. Reversinglamps
4.4.1. Presence
Mandatory on motor vehicles.
Optional on trailers.
4.4.2. Number
One or two.
4.4.3. Arrangement
No individual specifications.
4.4.4. Position
4.4.4.1. Width:
no individual specifications.
4.4.4.2. Height:
not less than 250 mm and not more than 1 200 mm above the
ground.
4.4.4.3. Length:
at the back of the vehicle.
4.4.5. Geometric visibility
Defined by angles αandβass pecified in item 1.13.
α= 15º upwardsand 5º downwards ,
β= 45º to right and left if there isonly one lamp,
β= 45º outwardsand 30º inwardsif there are two.
4.4.6. Alignment
Rearwards.
4.4.7. Electrical connections
Reversing lamps may only light up if the reverse gear is engaged
and if the device which controls the starting or stopping of the
engine is in such a position that operation of the engine is
possible.
They must not light up or remain lit up if either of the above
conditions is not satisfied.
4.4.8. Circuit-closed tell-tale
Optional.
4.5. Directionindicatorlamps
4.5.1. Presence (see Appendix 4)
Mandatory. Typesof direction indicator lampsfall into cate-
gories (1, 1 a, 1 b, 2 a, 2 b and 5), the assembly of which on
one vehicle constitutes an arrangement (‘A’ and ‘B’).
Arrangement ‘A’ shall apply to all motor vehicles.Arrangement ‘B’ shall apply to trailers only.
4.5.2. Number
The number of devices shall be such that they can emit signals
which correspond to one of the arrangements referred to in item
4.5.3.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 18
▼M6
4.5.3. Arrangement
A: two front direction indicator lampsof the following cate-
gories:
— 1 or 1 a or 1 b,
if the distance between the edge of the illuminating surface
of thislamp and that of the illuminating s urface of the
dipped-beam headlamp and/or the front fog lamp, where
fitted, isat leas t 40 mm,
—1ao r1b ,
if the distance between the edge of the illuminating surface
of thislamp and that of the illuminating s urface of the
dipped-beam headlamp and/or the front fog lamp, where
fitted, isgreater than 20 mm and les sthan 40 mm,
—1b ,
if the distance between the edge of the illuminating surface
of thislamp and that of the illuminating s urface of the
dipped-beam headlamp and/or the front fog lamp, where
fitted, isles sthan or equal to 20 mm;
two rear direction indicator lamps(category 2 a or 2 b);two side direction indicator lamps (category 5).Where any device combining the functionsof a front indicator
lamp (category 1,1 a, and 1 b) and a side indicator lamp (cate-
gory 5) has been installed, two additional side direction
indicator lamps (category 5) may be installed to meet the visibi-
lity requirementsof item 4.5.5.
B: two rear direction indicator lamps(category 2 a or 2 b).
4.5.4. Position
4.5.4.1. Width:
the edge of the illuminating surface furthest from the median
longitudinal plane of the vehicle must not be more than 400 mm
from the extreme outer edge of the vehicle.
The distance between the inner edges of the two illuminating
surfaces shall not be less than 600 mm.
Thisdis tance may be reduced to 400 mm where the overall
width of the vehicle isles sthan 1 300 mm.
4.5.4.2. Height above the ground:4.5.4.2.1. the height of the light-emitting surface of the side direction indi-
cator lamps (category 5) must not be less than 500 mm measured
from the lowest point or more than 1 500 mm measured from the
highest point.
4.5.4.2.2. The height of the direction indicator lampsof category 1, 1 a, 1
b, 2 a and 2 b, measured in accordance with item 3.8, shall not
be less than 350 mm or more than 1 500 mm.
4.5.4.2.3. If the structure of the vehicle does not permit these upper limits,
measured as specified above, to be respected, they may be
increased to 2 300 mm for side direction indicator lamps of cate-
gory 5 and to 2 100 mm for the direction indicator lampsof
categories1, 1 a, 1 b, 2 a and 2 b.
4.5.4.3. Length:
the distance between the light-emitting surface of the side direc-
tion indicator lamp (category 5) and the transverse plane which
marksthe forward boundary of the vehicle'soverall length, s hall
not exceed 1 800 mm.
If the structure of the vehicle makes it impossible to comply with
the minimum angles of visibility, this distance may be increased
to 2 500 mm.
4.5.5. Geometric visibility
Horizontal angles: see Appendix 4.
Vertical angles: 15º above and below the horizontal.
The vertical angle below the horizontal
may be reduced to 5º if the lampsare les s
than 750 mm above the ground.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 19
▼M6
4.5.6. Alignment
If individual specifications for installation are laid down by the
manufacturer they must be observed.
4.5.7. Electrical connections
Direction indicator lamps shall switch on independently of the
other lamps. All direction indicator lamps on one side of a
vehicle shall be switched on and off by means of one control
and must flash in phase.
4.5.8. Operational tell-tale
Mandatory for front and rear direction indicator lamps. It may be
optical or auditory or both.
If it is optical, it shall be a flashing light which, at least in the
event of the malfunction of any of the front or rear direction
indicator lamps, is either extinguished, or remains alight without
flashing, or shows a marked change of frequency.
If it is entirely auditory it shall be clearly audible and shall show
a marked change of frequency, at least in the event of the
malfunction of any of the front or rear direction indicator lamps.
If a motor vehicle isequipped to draw a trailer, it mus t be fitted
with a special optical operational tell-tale for the direction indi-
cator lampson the trailer unles sthe tell-tale of the drawing
vehicle allowsthe failure of any one of the direction indicator
lampson the vehicle combination thusformed to be detected.
4.5.9. Other requirements
The light shall be a flashing light flashing 90 ± 30 times per
minute.
Operation of the light-signal control shall be followed within not
more than one second by the emission of light and within not
more than one and one-half seconds by its first extinction. If a
motor vehicle isequipped to draw a trailer, the control of the
direction indicator lamps on the drawing vehicle shall also
operate the indicator lampsof the trailer.
In the event of failure, other than a short circuit, of one direction
indicator lamp, the others must continue to flash but the
frequency under thiscondition may be different from that s peci-
fied.
4.6. Hazardwarningsignal
4.6.1. Presence
Presence
Mandatory.
4.6.2. Number/C148/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C149/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C150Ass pecified in the corre-
sponding headings of item 4.5.4.6.3. Arrangement
4.6.4. Position
4.6.4.1. Width
4.6.4.2. Height4.6.4.3. Length
4.6.5. Geometric visibility
4.6.6. Alignment
4.6.7. Electrical connections
The signal shall be operated by means of a separate control
enabling all the direction indicator lamps to flash in phase.
4.6.8. Circuit-closed tell-tale
Mandatory. Flashing warning light, which can operate in
conjunction with the tell-tale(s) specified in item 4.5.8.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 20
▼M6
4.6.9. Other requirements
Ass pecified in item 4.5.9. If a motor vehicle isequipped to
draw a trailer the hazard warning signal control must also be
capable of bringing the direction indicator lampson the trailer
into action. The hazard warning signal must be able to function
even if the device which starts and stops the engine is in a
position which makes it impossible to start the engine.
4.7. Stoplamps
4.7.1. Presence
Mandatory.
4.7.2. Number
Two.
4.7.3. Arrangement
No individual specifications.
4.7.4. Position
4.7.4.1. Width:
Not less than 600 mm apart. This distance may be reduced to
400 mm if the overall width of the vehicle isles sthan 1 300 mm.
4.7.4.2. Height:
Above the ground: not less than 350 mm, not more than
1 500 mm or not more than 2 100 mm if the shape of bodywork
makes it impossible to keep within 1 500 mm.
4.7.4.3. Length:
At rear of vehicle.
4.7.5. Geometric visibility
Horizontal angle: 45º outwardsand inwards .
Vertical angle: 15º above and below the horizontal.
The vertical angle below the horizontal may
be reduced to 5º in the case of lamps less
than 750 mm above the ground.
4.7.6. Alignment
Towardsthe rear of the vehicle.
4.7.7. Electrical connections
Stop lamps must light up when the service brake is applied. They
need not function if the device which starts and/or stops the
engine is in a position which makes it impossible for the engine
to operate.
4.7.8. Operational tell-tale
Optional. Where fitted, thistell-tale mus t be an operational tell-
tale consisting of a non-flashing warning light which comes on
in the event of the malfunctioning of the stop lamps.
4.8. Rearregistrationplatelamp
4.8.1. Presence
Mandatory.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 21
▼M6
4.8.2. Number/C148/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C149/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C147/C150Such that the device iscapable
of illuminating the space for
the registration plate.4.8.3. Arrangement
4.8.4. Position
4.8.4.1. Width4.8.4.2. Height
4.8.4.3. Length
4.8.5. Geometric visibility
4.8.6. Alignment
4.8.7. Electrical connections
No individual specifications.
4.8.8. Circuit-closed tell-tale
Optional. If it exists, its function must be carried out by the
tell-tale required for the front and rear position lamps.
4.8.9. Other requirements
When the rear registration plate lamp is combined with the rear
position lamp reciprocally incorporated in the stop lamp or in
the rear fog lamp, the photometric characteristics of the rear
registration plate lamp may be modified during the operation
of the stop lamp or the rear fog lamp.
4.9. Frontpositionlamps
4.9.1. Presence
Mandatory on all motor vehicles.Mandatory on trailersover 1 600 mm wide.Optional on trailerswhich are not more than 1 600 mm wide.
4.9.2. Number
Two.
4.9.3. Arrangement
No individual specifications.
4.9.4. Position
4.9.4.1. Width:
the point on the illuminating surface which is farthest from the
vehicle'smedian longitudinal plane mus t be not more than
400 mm from the extreme outer edge of the vehicle.
In the case of a trailer, the point on the illuminating surface
which is farthest from the median longitudinal plane must be
not more than 150 mm from the extreme outer edge of the
vehicle. The clearance between the respective inner edges of the
two illuminating surfaces must not be less than 600 mm.
Thisdis tance may be reduced to 400 mm where the overall
width of the vehicle isles sthan 1 300 mm.
4.9.4.2. Height:
above the ground: not less than 350 mm, not more than 1 500 mm
or not more than 2 100 mm if the shape of the bodywork makes
it impossible to keep within 1 500 mm.
4.9.4.3. Length:
no individual specifications.
4.9.4.4. Where the front position lamp and another lamp are mutually
incorporated, the illuminating surface of the other lamp must be
used to verify compliance with the positioning requirements
(items4.9.4.1 to 4.9.4.3).
4.9.5. Geometric visibility
Horizontal angle for the two front position lamps:45º inwardsand 80º outwards .1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 22
▼M6
In the case of trailers, the angle inwards may be reduced to 5º.
Vertical angle:15º above and below the horizontal. The vertical angle below the
horizontal may be reduced to 5º in the case of lamps less than
750 mm above the ground.
4.9.6. Alignment
Towardsthe front.
4.9.7. Electrical connections
No individual specifications.
4.9.8. Circuit-closed tell-tale
Mandatory. This tell-tale shall be non-flashing and shall not be
required if the instrument panel lighting can only be turned on
simultaneously with the front position lamps.
4.10. Rearpositionlamps
4.10.1. Presence
Mandatory.
4.10.2. Number
Two.
4.10.3. Arrangement
No individual specifications.
4.10.4. Position
4.10.4.1. Width:
the point on the illuminating surface which is farthest from the
vehicle'smedian longitudinal plane mus t be not more than
400 mm from the extreme outer edge of the vehicle.
The distance between the inner edges of the two illuminating
surfaces shall be not less than 600 mm. This distance may be
reduced to 400 mm where the overall width of the vehicle is
less than 1 300 mm.
4.10.4.2. Height:
above the ground: not less than 350 mm, not more than 1 500 mm
or not more than 2 100 mm if the shape of the bodywork makes
it impossible to keep within 1 500 mm.
4.10.4.3. Length:
at rear of vehicle.
4.10.5. Geometric visibility
Horizontal angle: 45º inwardsand 80º outwards .
Vertical angle: 15º above and below the horizontal.
The vertical angle below the horizontal may
be reduced to 5º in the case of lamps less
than 750 mm above the ground.
4.10.6. Alignment
Towardsthe rear.
4.10.7. Electrical connections
No individual specifications.
4.10.8. Circuit-closed tell-tale
Mandatory. It must be combined with that of the front position
lamps.
4.11. Rearfoglamp
4.11.1. Presence
Mandatory.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 23
▼M6
4.11.2. Number
One, a second being optional.
4.11.3. Arrangement
No individual specifications.
4.11.4. Position
4.11.4.1. Width:
if there is only one rear fog lamp, it must be on the opposite side
of the median longitudinal plane of the vehicle to the direction of
traffic prescribed in the country of registration; the centre of
reference may also be situated on the median longitudinal plane
of the vehicle.
4.11.4.2. Height:
between 250 and 1 000 mm above the ground.
4.11.4.3. Length:
at rear of vehicle.
4.11.5. Geometric visibility
Horizontal angle: 25º inwardsand outwards .
Vertical angle: 5º above and below the horizontal.
4.11.6. Alignment
Towardsthe rear.
4.11.7. Electrical connections
These must be such that the rear fog lamp can operate only when
the dipped beam or main beam headlampsor the front fog lamps
or a combination of these are switched on. They must be such
that when the rear fog lamp iss witched on it iscapable of oper-
ating together with the main beam, the dipped beam and the
front fog lamps.
When the rear fog lamp ison, s witching from the main-beam to
the dipped-beam mode and vice-versa shall not extinguish the
rear fog lamp.
If the front fog lamps exist, the extinguishing of the rear fog
lamp must be possible independently from that of the front fog
lamps.
4.11.8. Circuit-closed tell-tale
Mandatory. An independent non-flashing warning light.
4.11.9. Other requirements
In all cases, the distance between the rear fog lamp and each
stop lamp must be greater than 100 mm.
4.12. Parkinglamp
4.12.1. Presence
On motor vehiclesnot exceeding 6 m in length and not
exceeding 2 m in width: optional;
On all other vehicles: prohibited.
4.12.2. Number
Dependent upon the arrangement.
4.12.3. Arrangement
— either two front lampsand two rear lamps ,
— or one lamp on each side.
4.12.4. Position
4.12.4.1. Width:
the point on the illuminating surface which is farthest from the
median longitudinal plane of the vehicle must be not more than
400 mm from the extreme outer edge of the vehicle.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 24
▼M6
Furthermore, in the case of a pair of lamps, the lamps must be on
the sides of the vehicle.
4.12.4.2. Height:
above the ground: not less than 350 mm;
not more than 1 500 mm, or 2 100 mm if
the shape of the bodywork makes it impos-
sible to keep within 1 500 mm.
4.12.4.3. Length
no individual specifications.
4.12.5. Geometric visibility
Horizontal angle: 45º outwards, towards the front and towards
the rear.
Vertical angle: 15º above and below the horizontal. The
vertical angle below the horizontal may be
reduced to 5º in the case of lamps less than
750 mm above the ground.
4.12.6. Alignment
Such that the lampsmeet the s pecified conditionsconcerning
visibility towards the front and towards the rear.
4.12.7. Electrical connections
The connection must allow the parking lamp(s) on the same side
of the vehicle to be lit independently of any other lamps.
The parking lamp(s) must be able to function even if the device
which starts and/or stops the engine is in a position which makes
it impossible for the engine to operate.
4.12.8. Circuit-closed tell-tale
Optional. If there is one, it must not be possible to confuse it
with the tell-tale for the front and rear position lamps.
4.12.9. Other requirements
The function of this lamp may also be performed by simulta-
neously switching on the front and rear position lamps on the
same side of the vehicle.
4.13. End-outlinemarkerlamp
4.13.1. Presence
Mandatory on vehiclesexceeding 2,10 m in width.
Optional on vehiclesbetween 1,80 and 2,10 m wide.
The rear end-outline marker lamp is optional on chassis cabs.
4.13.2. Number
Two visible from the front and two visible from the rear.
4.13.3. Arrangement
No individual specifications.
4.13.4. Position
4.13.4.1. Width:
Front and rear: as close as possible to the extreme outer edge
of the vehicle. Thiscondition isdeemed to
have been met when the point on the illumi-
nating surface which is farthest from the
vehicle'smedian longitudinal plane isnot
more than 400 mm from the extreme outer
edge of the vehicle.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 25
▼M6
4.13.4.2. Height:
Front: Motor vehicles: the horizontal plane tangential to the
upper edge of the illuminating surface of the device
must not be lower than the horizontal plane tangential
to the upper edge of the transparent zone of the wind-
screen.
Trailers and semi-trailers: at the maximum height
compatible with the requirementsrelating to the width,
design and operational requirements of the vehicle and
to the symmetry of the lamps.
Rear: at the maximum height compatible with the require-
mentsrelating to the width, des ign and operational
requirementsof the vehicle and to the s ymmetry of
the lamps.
4.13.4.3. Length:
no individual specifications.
4.13.5. Geometric visibility:
Horizontal angle: 80º outwards.
Vertical angle: 5º above and 20º below the horizontal.
4.13.6. Alignment
Such that the lampsmeet the vis ibility requirementstowardsthe
front and towardsthe rear.
4.13.7. Electrical connections
No individual specifications.
4.13.8. Circuit-closed tell-tale
Optional. If it exists, its function shall be carried out by the tell-
tale required for the front and rear position lamps.
4.13.9. Other requirements
Subject to all other conditionsbeing met, the lamp vis ible from
the front and the lamp visible from the rear, on the same side of
the vehicle, may be combined in one device.
The position of an end-outline marker lamp in relation to the
corresponding position lamp shall be such that the distance
between the projections on a transverse vertical plane of the
points nearest to the illuminating surfaces of the two lamps
considered is not less than 200 mm.
4.14. Rearretroreflector, non-triangular
4.14.1. Presence
Mandatory on motor vehicles.
Optional on trailers, provided that they are grouped together with
the other rear light-signalling devices.
4.14.2. Number
Two.
Additional retro reflecting devicesand materialsare permitted
provided they do not impair the effectiveness of the mandatory
lighting and light-signalling devices.
4.14.3. Arrangement
No individual specifications.
4.14.4. Position
4.14.4.1. Width:
the point on the illuminating surface which is farthest from the
vehicle'smedian longitudinal plane mus t be not more than
400 mm from the extreme outer edge of the vehicle.
The distance between the inner edges of the retro reflectors shall
not be less than 600 mm. This distance may be reduced to
400 mm if the overall width of the vehicle isles sthan 1 300 mm.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 26
▼M6
4.14.4.2. Height:
above the ground: not less than 350 mm and not more than
900 mm.
4.14.4.3. Length:
At rear of vehicle.
4.14.5. Geometric visibility
Horizontal angle: 30º inwardsand outwards .
Vertical angle: 15º above and below the horizontal. The
vertical angle below the horizontal may be
reduced to 5º in the case of a retro reflector
less than 750 mm above the ground.
4.14.6. Alignment
To the rear.
4.14.7. Other requirements
The illuminating surface of the retro reflector may have parts in
common with the illuminating surface of any other rear lamp.
4.15. Rearretroreflector, triangular
4.15.1. Presence
Mandatory on trailers.Prohibited on motor vehicles.
4.15.2. Number
Two.Additional retro reflecting devicesand materialsare permitted
provided they do not impair the effectiveness of the mandatory
lighting and light signalling devices.
4.15.3. Arrangement
The apex of the triangle must be uppermost.
4.15.4. Position
4.15.4.1. Width:
the point of the illuminating surface which is furthest from the
vehicle'smedian longitudinal plane mus t not be further than
400 mm from the extreme outer edge of the vehicle.
The distance between the inner edges of the retro reflectors shall
not be less than 600 mm. This distance may be reduced to
400 mm if the overall width of the vehicle isles sthan 1 300 mm.
4.15.4.2. Height:
above the ground: not less than 350 mm and not more than
900 mm.
4.15.4.3. Length:
at rear of vehicle.
4.15.5. Geometric visibility:
Horizontal angle: 30º inwardsand outwards .
Vertical angle: 15º above and below the horizontal. The
vertical angle below the horizontal may be
reduced to 5º in the case of a retro reflector
less than 750 mm above the ground.
4.15.6. Alignment
To the rear.
4.15.7. Other requirements
No lamp may be placed within the triangle.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 27
▼M6
4.16. Frontretroreflector, non-triangular
4.16.1. Presence
Mandatory on trailers.Optional on motor vehicles.
4.16.2. Number
Two.
Additional retro reflecting devicesand materialsare permitted
provided they do not impair the effectiveness of the mandatory
lighting and light-signalling devices.
4.16.3. Arrangement
No individual specifications.
4.16.4. Position
4.16.4.1. Width:
the point of the illuminating surface which is furthest from the
vehicle'smedian longitudinal plane mus t not be further than
400 mm from the extreme outer edge of the vehicle.
In the case of a trailer, the point of the illuminating surface
which isfurthes t from the vehicle'smedian longitudinal plane
must not be further than 150 mm from the extreme outer edge
of the vehicle.
The distance between the inner edges of the retro reflectors shall
not be less than 600 mm. This distance may be reduced to
400 mm if the overall width of the vehicle isles sthan 1 300 mm.
4.16.4.2. Height:
above the ground: not less than 350 mm and not more than
900 mm, or if 1 500 mm if the structure of the vehicle makes it
impossible to keep within 900 mm.
4.16.4.3. Length:
at front of vehicle.
4.16.5. Geometric visibility:
Horizontal angle: 30º inwardsand outwards .
If, on account of adjustable drawbars, it is
not possible to satisfy the inward angle
requirement of 30º, it may be reduced to
10º.
Vertical angle: 15º above and below the horizontal. The
vertical angle below the horizontal may be
reduced to 5º in the case of a retro reflector
less than 750 mm above the ground.
4.16.6. Alignment
Towardsthe front.
4.16.7. Other requirements
The illuminating surface of the retro reflector may have parts in
common with that of the front position lamp.
4.17. Sideretroreflector, non-triangular
4.17.1. Presence
Mandatory:
— on all motor vehiclesthe length of which exceeds6 m,
— on all trailers;
Optional:
— on motor vehiclesthe length of which doesnot exceed 6 m.
4.17.2. Minimum number per side
Such that the rulesfor longitudinal pos itioning are complied
with.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 28
▼M6
Additional retro reflecting devicesand materialsare permitted
provided they do not impair the effectiveness of the mandatory
lighting and light signalling devices.
4.17.3. Arrangement
No individual specifications.
4.17.4. Position
4.17.4.1. Width:
no individual specifications.
4.17.4.2. Height:
above the ground: not less than 350 mm and not more than
900 mm. If the structure of the vehicle does not allow compli-
ance with the maximum height, thislimit may be rais ed to
1 500 mm.
4.17.4.3. Length:
at least one side retro reflector must be fitted to the middle third
of the vehicle, the foremost side retro reflector being not further
than 3 m from the front; in the case of trailers, account shall be
taken of the length of the drawbar for the measurement of this
distance.
The distance between two adjacent side retro reflectors shall not
exceed 3 m.
If the structure of the vehicle makes it impossible to comply with
such a requirement, this distance may be increased to 4 m. The
distance between the rearmost side retro reflector and the rear of
the vehicle shall not exceed 1 m.
However, for motor vehiclesthe length of which doesnot exceed
6 m, it is sufficient to have one side retro reflector fitted within
the first third and/or one within the last third of the vehicle
length.
4.17.5. Geometric visibility
Horizontal angle: 45º to the front and to the rear.
Vertical angle: 15º above and below the horizontal. The
vertical angle below the horizontal may be
reduced to 5º in the case of a retro reflector
less than 750 mm above the ground.
4.17.6. Alignment
The reference axisof the retro reflector mus t be horizontal and
perpendicular to the vehicle'smedian longitudinal plane and
directed outwards.
4.17.7. Other requirements
The illuminating surface of the side retro reflector may have
parts in common with the illuminating surface of any other side
lamp.
4.18. Side-markerlamp
4.18.1. Presence
Mandatory:
— on all vehiclesthe length of which exceeds6 m, except for
chassis-cabs;
Optional:
— on vehiclesthe length of which doesnot exceed 6 m.
The length of trailersiscalculated including the drawbar.
4.18.2. Minimum number per side
Such that the rulesfor longitudinal pos itioning are complied
with.
4.18.3. Arrangement
No individual specifications.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 29
▼M6
4.18.4. Position
4.18.4.1. Width:
no individual specifications.
4.18.4.2. Height:
above the ground: not less than 350 mm and not more than
1 500 mm. If the structure of the vehicle does not allow of
compliance with the maximum height, thislimit may be rais ed
to 2 100 mm.
4.18.4.3. Length:
at least one side-marker lamp must be fitted to the middle third
of the vehicle, the foremost side-marker lamp being not further
than 3 m from the front; in the case of trailers account shall be
taken of the length of the drawbar for the measurement of this
distance.
The distance between two adjacent side-marker lamps shall not
exceed 3 m.
If the structure of the vehicle makes it impossible to comply with
such a requirement, this distance may be increased to 4 m. The
distance between the rearmost side-marker lamp and the rear of
the vehicle shall not exceed 1 m. However, for vehicles the
length of which does not exceed 6 m and for chassis-cabs, it is
sufficient to have one side-marker lamp fitted within the first
third and/or one within the last third of the vehicle length.
4.18.5. Geometric visibility
Horizontal angle: 45º to the front and to the rear; however, for
vehicleson which the ins tallation of the
side-marker lamps is optional this value
can be reduced to 30º.
Vertical angle: 10º above and below the horizontal. The
vertical angle below the horizontal may be
reduced to 5º in the case of a side-marker
lamp less than 750 mm above the ground.
4.18.6. Alignment
Towardsthe s ide.
4.18.7. Electrical connections
No individual specifications.
4.18.8. Circuit-closed tell-tale
Optional. If it exists its function shall be carried out by the tell-
tale required for the front and rear position lamps.
4.18.9. Other requirements
When the rearmost side-marker lamp is combined with the rear
position lamp reciprocally incorporated with the rear fog lamp
or it isreciprocally incorporated in thislamp, the photometric
characteristics of the side-marker lamp may be modified during
the operation of the rear fog lamp.
5. CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION
5.1. Every series-produced vehicle must conform to the vehicle type
which received type-approval asregardsthe ins tallation of
lighting and light-signalling devices and their characteristics as
specified by this Directive.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 30
▼M6
Appendix 1
VEHICLELOADINGCONDITIONSREFERREDTOIN4.2.6.1
1.For the following tests, the mass of the passengers shall be calcu-
latedonthebasisof75kgperperson.
2.Loadingconditionsfordifferentkindsofvehicles:
2.1. Vehicles in category M1.
2.1.1. The angle of the light beam of the dipped-beam headlampss hall be
determined under the following load conditions:
2.1.1.1. one person in the driver's seat;2.1.1.2. the driver, plus one passenger in the front seat farthest from the driver;
2.1.1.3. the driver, one passenger in the front seat farthest from the driver, all
the seats farthest to the rear occupied;
2.1.1.4. all the seats occupied;
2.1.1.5. all the seats occupied, plus an evenly distributed load in the luggage
boot, in order to obtain the permissible load on the rear axle or on the
front axle if the boot isat the front. If the vehicle hasa front and a rear
boot, the additional load must be appropriately distributed in order to
obtain the permissible axle loads. However, if the maximum permis-
sible laden mass is obtained before the permissible load on one of the
axles, the loading of the boot(s) shall be limited to the figure whichenablesthat mas sto be reached;
2.1.1.6. driver, plusan evenly dis tributed load in the boot, in order to obtain the
permissible load on the corresponding axle.
However, if the maximum permissible laden mass is obtained before
the permissible load on the axle, the loading of the boot(s) shall be
limited to the figure which enablesthat mas sto be reached.
2.1.2. In determining the above loading conditions, account must be taken of
any loading restrictions laid down by the manufacturer.
2.2. Vehicles in categories M
2and M3.
The angle of the light beam from the dipped-beam headlampsmus t be
determined under the following loading conditions:
2.2.1. Vehicle unladen and one person in the driver's seat.
2.2.2. Vehiclesladen s uch that each axle carriesitsmaximum technically
permissible load or until the maximum permissible mass of the vehicle
isattained by loading the front and rear axlesproportionally to their
maximum technically permissible loads, whichever occurs first.
2.3. Vehicles in category N with load surfaces.
2.3.1. The angle of the light beam from the dipped-beam headlampsmus t be
determined under the following loading conditions:
2.3.1.1. vehicle unladen and one person in the driver's seat,
2.3.1.2. in the case of a load platform at the rear: driver, plus a load so distrib-
uted as to give the maximum technically permissible load on the rear
axle or axles, or the maximum permissible mass of the vehicle, which-
ever occursfirs t, without exceeding a front axle load calculated asthe
sum of the front axle load of the unladen vehicle plus 25 % of the
maximum permissible payload on the front axle. The same procedure
shall apply, mutatis mutandis , when the load platform isat the front.
2.4. Vehicles in category N without load surface.
2.4.1. Drawing vehicles for semi-trailers:
2.4.1.1. unladen vehicle without a load on the coupling attachment and one
person in the driver's seat,1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 31
▼M6
2.4.1.2. one person in the driver's seat; technically permissible load on the
coupling attachment in the position of the attachment corresponding to
the highest load on the rear axle.
2.4.2. Drawing vehiclesfor trailers :
2.4.2.1. vehicle unladen and one person in the driver's seat;2.4.2.2. one person in the driver's seat, all the other places in the driving cabin
being occupied.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 32
▼M6
Appendix 2
1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 33
▼M6
Appendix 3
Figure 1
Figure 21976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 34
▼M6
Appendix 4
DIRECTIONINDICATORLAMP
Anglesofgeometric visibility
1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 35
▼M6
Appendix 5
MEASUREMENT OF THE VARIATION OF DIPPED BEAM INCLINA-
TIONASAFUNCTIONOFLOAD
1. SCOPE
This Appendix specifies a method for measuring variations in motor
vehicle dipped beam inclination, in relation to itsinitial inclination,
caused by changes in vehicle attitude due to loading.
2. DEFINITIONS
2.1.Initialinclination
2.1.1. Stated initial inclination:
the value of the dipped beam initial inclination specified by the motor
vehicle manufacturer serving as a reference value for the calculation of
permissible variations.
2.1.2. Measured initial inclination:
the mean value of dipped beam inclination or vehicle inclination
measured with the vehicle in condition No 1, as defined in Appendix
1, for the category of vehicle under test. It serves as a reference value
for the assessment of variations in beam inclination as the load varies.
2.2.Dipped-beaminclination
It may be defined asfollows :
— either as the angle, expressed in milliradians, between the direction
of the beam towardsa characteris tic point on the horizontal part of
the cut-off in the luminousdis tribution of the headlamp and the
horizontal plane,
— or by the tangent of that angle, expressed in percentage inclination,
since the angles are small (for these small angles, 1 % is equal to
10 mrad).
If the inclination is expressed in percentage inclination, it can be calcu-
lated by meansof the following formula:
h1/C0h2
l/C2100
where:
h1isthe height above the ground, in millimetres , of the abovemen-
tioned characteristic point, measured on a vertical screen
perpendicular to the vehicle longitudinal median plane, placed at
a horizontal distance I;
h2isthe height above the ground, in millimetres , of the centre of
reference (which istaken to be the nominal origin of the character-
istic point chosen in h1);
l is the distance, in millimetres, from the screen to the centre of
reference.
Negative valuesdenote downward inclination (s ee Figure 1).Positive values denote upward inclination.
Figure11976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 36
▼M6
Notes:
1. Thisdrawing repres entsa category M1vehicle, but the principle
shown applies equally to vehicles of other categories.
2. Where the vehicle does not incorporate a headlamp levelling system,
the variation in dipped beam inclination isidentical with the varia-
tion in the inclination of the vehicle itself.
3. MEASUREMENT CONDITIONS
3.1. If a visual inspection of the dipped beam pattern on the screen or a
photometric method is used, measurement shall be carried out in a
dark environment (for example, a dark room) of sufficient area to allow
the vehicle and the screen to be placed as shown in Figure 1. Headlamp
centres of reference shall be at a distance I from the screen of at least
10 m.
3.2. The ground on which measurements are made shall be as flat and hori-
zontal as possible, so that the reproducibility of measurement of dipped
beam inclination can be assured with an accuracy of ± 0,5 mrad
(± 0,05 % inclination).
3.3. If a screen is used, its marking, position and orientation in relation to
the ground and to the median longitudinal plane of the vehicle, shall
be such that the reproducibility of the measurement of the dipped
beam inclination can be assured with an accuracy of ± 0,5 mrad
(± 0,05 % inclination).
3.4. During measurements, the ambient temperature shall be between 10 and
30º C.
4. VEHICLE PREPARATION
4.1. Measurements shall be carried out on a vehicle which has travelled a
distance of between 1 000 and 10 000 km, preferably 5 000 km.
4.2. Tyres shall be inflated to the full-load pressure specified by the vehicle
manufacturer. The vehicle shall be fully replenished (fuel, water, oil)
and equipped with all the accessories and tools specified by the manu-
facturer. Full fuel replenishment means that the fuel tank must be filled
to not less than 90 % of its capacity as indicated in the information
document, a model of which appearsin Annex I to Directive 70/156/
EEC.
4.3. The vehicle shall have the parking brake released and the gearbox in
neutral.
4.4. The vehicle shall be conditioned for at least eight hours at the tempera-
ture specified in item 3.4.
4.5. If a photometric or visual method is used, headlamps with a well-
defined dipped beam cut-off should preferably be installed on the
vehicle under test in order to facilitate the measurements.
Other meansare allowed to obtain a more precis e reading (for example,
removal of the headlamp lens).
5. TEST PROCEDURE5.1.General
The variationsin either dipped beam or vehicle inclination, depending
on the method chosen, shall be measured separately for each side of the
vehicle. The results obtained from both left and right headlamps under
all the load conditions specified in Appendix 1, shall be within the
limits set out in item 5.5. The load shall be applied gradually without
subjecting the vehicle to excessive shocks.
5.2.Determinationofthemeasuredinitial inclination
The vehicle shall be prepared as specified in item 4 and laden as speci-
fied in Appendix 1 (first loading condition of the respective vehicle
category).
Before each measurement, the vehicle shall be rocked as specified in
item 5.4.
Measurement shall be made three times.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 37
▼M6
5.2.1. If none of the three measured results differs by more than 2 mrad (0,2 %
inclination) from the arithmetic mean of the results, that mean shall
constitute the final result.
5.2.2. If any measurement differs from the arithmetic mean of the results by
more than 2 mrad (0,2 % inclination), a further series of 10 measure-
ments shall be made, the arithmetic mean of which shall constitute the
final result.
5.3.Measurementmethods
Any method may be used to measure variations of inclination provided
that the readingsare accurate to within ± 0,2 mrad (± 0,02 % inclina-
tion).
5.4.Treatmentofvehicle ineachloadingcondition
The vehicle suspension and any other part likely to affect dipped beam
inclination shall be activated according to the methods described below.
However, the technical authoritiesand manufacturersmay jointly
propose other methods (either experimental or based upon calculations),
especially when the test poses particular problems, provided such calcu-
lationsare clearly valid.
5.4.1. M1category vehicles with conventional suspension
With the vehicle standing on the measuring site and, if necessary, with
the wheels resting on floating platforms (which must be used if their
absence would lead to restriction of the suspension movement likely to
affect the results of measurements), rock the vehicle continuously for at
least three complete cycles; for each cycle, first the rear and then the
front end of the vehicle ispus hed down.
The rocking sequence shall end with the completion of a cycle. Before
making the measurements, the vehicle shall be allowed to come to rest
spontaneously.
Instead of using floating platforms, the same effect can be achieved by
moving the vehicle backwardsand forwardsfor at leas t a complete
wheel revolution.
5.4.2. M2,M3and N category vehicles with conventional suspension
5.4.2.1. If the treatment method for cateogory M1vehiclesdes cribed in item
5.4.1 is not possible, the method described in item 5.4.2.2 or 5.4.2.3
may be used.
5.4.2.2. With the vehicle standing on the measuring site and the wheels on the
ground, rock the vehicle by temporarily varying the load.
5.4.2.3. With the vehicle standing on the measuring site and the wheels on the
ground, activate the vehicle suspension and all other parts which may
affect the dipped beam inclination by using a vibration rig. This can
be a vibrating platform on which the wheelsres t.
5.4.3. Vehicles with non-conventional suspension, where the engine has to be
running
Before making any measurement wait until the vehicle has assumed its
final attitude with the engine running.
5.5.Measurements
The variation of the inclination of the dipped beam shall be assessed for
each of the different loading conditionsin relation to the meas ured
initial inclination determined in accordance with item 5.2.
If the vehicle is fitted with a manual headlamp-levelling system, the
latter shall be adjusted to the positions specified by the manufacturer
for given loading conditions(according to Appendix 1).
5.5.1. To begin with, a single measurement shall be made in each loading
condition. Requirementshave been met if, for all the loading condi-
tions, the variation in inclination is within the calculated limits (for
example, within the difference between the stated initial inclination
and the lower and upper limits specified for approval) with a safety
margin of 4 mrad (0,4 % inclination).
5.5.2. If the result(s) of any measurement(s) does (do) not lie within the safety
margin indicated in item 5.5.1 or exceed(s) the limit values, a further1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 38
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three measurements shall be made in the loading conditions corre-
sponding to this (these) result(s) as specified in item 5.5.3.
5.5.3. For each of the above loading conditions:
5.5.3.1. If none of the three measured results differs by more than 2 mrad (0,2 %
inclination), from the arithmetic mean of the results, that mean shallconstitute the final result.
5.5.3.2. If any measurement differs from the arithmetic mean of the results by
more than 2 mrad (0,2 % inclination), a further series of 10 measure-
ments shall be made, the arithmetic mean of which shall constitute the
final result.
5.5.3.3. If a vehicle is fitted with an automatic headlamp-levelling system which
has an inherent hysteresis loop, average results at the top and bottom of
the hysteresis loop shall be taken as significant values.
All these measurements shall be made in accordance with items 5.5.3.1
and 5.5.3.2.
5.5.4. Requirementshave been met, if, under all loading conditions , the varia-
tion between the measured initial inclination determined in accordance
with item 5.2 and the inclination measured under each loading condi-
tion is less than the values calculated in item 5.5.1 (without safety
margin).
5.5.5. If only one of the calculated upper or lower limitsof variation is
exceeded, the manufacturer shall be permitted to chose a different value
for the stated initial inclination, within the limits specified for approval.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 39
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Appendix 6
INDICATION OF THE STATED INITIAL ADJUSTMENT REFERRED TO IN ITEM 4.2.6.1
OFANNEXI
Example
The size of the symbol and characters is left to the discretion of the manufacturer.1976L0756 — EN — 31.12.1991 — 006.001 — 40
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Appendix 7
THE CONTROLS FOR THE HEADLAMP-LEVELLING DEVICES
REFERREDTOINITEMS4.2.6.2.2OFANNEXI
1. SPECIFICATIONS
1.1. Downward inclination of the dipped beam must in all cases be produced
in one of the following ways:
(a) by moving a control downwardsor to the left;
(b) by rotating a control in a counter-clockwise direction;
(c) by depressing a button (push-pull control).
If several buttons are used to adjust the beam, the button which gives the
greatest downward inclination must be installed to the left or below the
button(s) for other dipped-beam positions.
A rotary control which is installed edge-on, or with only the edge visible,
should follow the operating principles of controls of types (a) or (c).
1.1.1. This control must carry symbols indicating clearly the movements corre-
sponding to the downward and upward inclination of the dipped beam.
1.2. The ‘0’ position corresponds to the initial inclination according to item
4.2.6.1 of Annex I.
1.3. The ‘0’ position which, according to item 4.2.6.2.2 of Annex I, has to be
a ‘stop position’, need not necessarily be at the end of the scale.
1.4. The marks used on the control must be explained in the owner's hand-
book.
1.5. Only the following symbols may be used to identify the controls:
Symbols employing four lines instead of five may also be used.
2. EXAMPLES
Example1
Example2
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Example3
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ANNEX II
MODEL
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