The E-mark is a European approval mark indicating that vehicle components, such as lighting, comply with the safety and performance standards of the European Union. Recognizable by a circle with the letter “E” and a country code, this mark ensures vehicle safety, reliable performance, and compliance with legal requirements.
Importance of the E-mark for vehicle lighting
It guarantees that vehicle lighting meets the strict requirements established by the European Union according to ECE regulations. These requirements concern the light intensity, durability, and safety of the lighting. Vehicle lighting with the E-mark contributes to road safety by ensuring that the lighting is reliable and functions well under various conditions.
The E-mark is issued by a national certification body of a country that is a member of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE).
Difference between E-Mark with uppercase or lowercase "e"
This certification mark is specifically intended for vehicle components and indicates that a product complies with ECE regulations, which are internationally recognized technical standards for vehicles and vehicle components.
Het e-keurmerk, met een kleine letter “e” in een rechthoek, duidt op goedkeuring volgens specifieke EU-richtlijnen en bevestigt naleving van de Europese wetgeving. Beide markeringen geven aan dat het product voldoet aan wettelijke eisen, maar ze worden uitgegeven door verschillende autoriteiten en zijn toepasbaar binnen verschillende juridische kaders.
The ECE Regulations
ECE regulations, such as the well-known ECE R10 and ECE R65. These internationally recognized regulations contain detailed technical requirements for vehicle lighting that are applied by many countries. The ECE regulations are often integrated into EU legislation. This means that compliance with an ECE regulation generally also meets the requirements of the E-mark. For example, compliance with ECE R48 (installation of lighting) ensures that the lighting meets relevant EU safety standards.
The E-mark is mandatory for the sale and use of vehicle lighting within the EU. The mark confirms that the lighting complies with both ECE regulations and specific EU directives.
Did you know that each country has its own specific E-mark code? A German approval number, such as "E1," indicates that the product has been approved according to German safety standards.
DIFFERENT COUNTRIES WITH DIFFERENT NUMBERS
For each European country, there is a different number. A system for European approval and country-specific certification. This number indicates the country in which the product has been approved. Below is an overview of some well-known numbers:
Source: European standards
Certification process
Obtaining the mark is an essential safety certification and requires a thorough certification process:
- Application procedure: Manufacturers submit an application to the competent authority of an EU member state, providing technical documentation and test results.
- Testprocedures: Geaccrediteerde testlaboratoria voeren tests uit om te verifiëren of het product voldoet aan de relevante ECE-reglementen en EU-richtlijnen.
- Approval: Upon successful testing, the authority grants the certification mark, which may be applied to the product.
- Inspection and compliance: After approval, products remain subject to periodic inspections to ensure ongoing compliance with standards.
In Germany, this process is managed by the Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt (KBA), which is responsible for authorizing and auditing products and testing facilities.
Consequences of lacking the certification mark
The use of vehicle lighting without legal approval can lead to legal sanctions, such as fines, and increases the risk of accidents, as such lighting may not meet European safety standards. Additionally, the vehicle may fail a technical inspection (MOT) if the lighting does not comply with legal requirements.
What is the difference between the E-mark and the CE-mark?
The E-mark is specific to vehicle components and indicates that the product meets the European safety and performance standards for vehicles. The CE-mark, on the other hand, indicates that a product complies with general European guidelines for safety, health, and the environment but is not specific to vehicles.
Is it legal to use vehicle lighting without an E-mark?
No, within the European Union, it is not permitted to use vehicle lighting without this certification mark on public roads. The absence of this mark means that the lighting has not been approved according to European standards, which can lead to legal sanctions and safety risks.
How can I check if my vehicle lighting has a valid E-mark?
Check if the lighting has the certification mark, consisting of a circle with the letter “E” and a country code. If in doubt, consult the manufacturer's documentation or contact an authorized dealer.