Headlight

Headlights are the central front lighting on motor vehicles and usually comprise low beam and high beam in a single lamp or in separate lamps. The low beam provides glare-free illumination with a clear cut-off line, while the high beam covers a greater distance – but without a cut-off line.

To be approved in Europe, headlights must comply with the ECE regulations (currently primarily ECE Reg. 149). The reference number indicates the maximum light output of the high beam. Parking light functions are also often integrated to ensure a minimum of lighting when the vehicle is stationary.

Various light sources are used: from halogen bulbs (e.g. H7) to xenon bulbs and modern LED systems or laser light. In vehicles for right-hand traffic, the light pattern of the headlights is asymmetrical, so that the right-hand side of the road is more strongly illuminated. In left-hand traffic, the left side is illuminated more. Correct adjustment of the worklights is essential to avoid blinding oncoming traffic and to ensure optimal visibility.

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