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Which Beacons Are Approved For Use On The Roads
A beacon may only be used on public roads if it meets Directive ECE-R65.
ECE-R65 is the European directive for beacons. It specifies the required light values, light distribution and fitting specifications, etc.
Can also be viewed at www.unece.org (United Nations Economic Commission for Europe)
The large E-approval mark here E1 shows whether the beacon meets the ECE-R65 directive and has therefore approval.
Fixing
The beacon warning light shall be designed in such a way that it cannot be adjusted after it has been fitted correctly to the vehicle (ECE-R65 5.2).
The design and fixing method must conform to DIN14620. The beacon itself can have the following designs: A, B1, B2 or C.
ECE R65
Light values according to ECE-R65
The light values to be obtained are indicated by the effective luminous intensity. An amber beacon must,
for example, reach a luminous intensity of 70 cd (effective candela) at night at a vertical angle of + 8°.
A blue beacon in contrast must reach 25 cd at night at a vertical angle of + 4°.
| effective luminous intensity (candela) | Blue | Amber | Red |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0° | 50 (Night) 120 (Day) | 100 (Night) 230 (Day) | 50 (Night) 120 (Day) |
| 4° | 25 (Night) 60 (Day) | – | 25 (Night) 60 (Day) |
| 8° | – | 70 (Night) 170 (Day) | – |
Example distribution (180 cm height)
Incorrect
Negative example: The warning signal cannot be seen from all directions in a 25-meter radius – in the area of the tow hook, the warning signal is interrupted. In this case, another warning light needs to be attached to the rear of the vehicle or two beacons attached to the cabin.
Correct
Positive example: The warning signal can be seen from all directions in a 25-meter radius.
