Implementations and Usage of Daytime Running Lamps (DRLs)
– Vehicles may implement DRLs by turning on specific lamps, low-beam or fog lamps at full or reduced intensity, high-beam headlamps at reduced intensity, or steady-burning operation of front turn signals.
– Functionally dedicated DRLs maximize safety performance, glare reduction, and motorcycle masking.
– DRLs are automatically switched on once the ignition is on or when the parking brake is released or the vehicle is shifted into gear.
– DRLs emit brighter light when the headlamps are not turned on and are slightly dimmed when the headlamps are turned on.
– DRLs are designed to enhance visibility during the day.
– DRLs are required to comply with specific regulations regarding their intensity and mounting on the vehicle.
– Some researchers suggest using amber DRLs exclusively on motorcycles.
Safety Performance and Effect of Ambient Light on DRLs
– A study by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that DRLs offer no statistically significant reduction in the frequency or severity of collisions, except for a 5.7% reduction in light trucks and vans involvement in two-vehicle crashes.
– The safety benefit of DRLs is higher in dark Nordic countries compared to the relatively bright United States.
– The intensity of DRLs required for safety improvement increases as ambient light levels increase.
– DRLs have potential benefits in safety performance, glare reduction, motorcycle masking, and other potential drawbacks.
– DRLs were first mandated and perceived as beneficial in Scandinavian countries with persistently low ambient light levels during winter.
– As ambient light levels increase, the potential safety benefit of DRLs decreases.
– The safety benefit of DRLs in dark Nordic countries is roughly triple the benefit observed in the relatively bright United States.
– The effectiveness of DRLs may be influenced by their luminous area.
Environmental Impact of DRLs
– DRL power consumption varies widely, ranging from 5 watts for dedicated LED systems to over 200W for headlamp-based systems.
– High-power DRL systems increase CO2 emissions and fuel consumption, affecting compliance with greenhouse gas emissions protocols.
– Low-power solutions, such as LEDs or high-efficacy filament bulbs, produce appropriate light for effective DRLs without significantly increasing fuel consumption or emissions.
– Fuel consumption reductions of up to 0.5mpg can be achieved by using low-power DRL systems.
– DRL systems based on LEDs or high-efficacy filament bulbs can reduce fuel consumption to insignificant levels.
Regulations and Mandates of DRLs in Different Countries
– European Union made DRLs mandatory from 2011.
– Commission Directive 2008/89/EC amended Council Directive 76/756/EEC to adapt to technical progress.
– Regulation (EC) No 661/2009 establishes type-approval requirements for vehicle safety.
– ECE Regulation 87, Revision 2, sets standards for DRLs.
– Canada requires DRLs on all new vehicles made or imported after January 1, 1990.
– The initial proposed DRL regulation in Canada faced opposition from automakers.
– DRLs in Canada can be implemented by connecting high beam filaments in series or using front turn signals.
– The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration permitted DRLs in US vehicles, but they are not required.
– Australia permits but does not require DRLs.
Benefits of Daytime Running Lamps (DRLs)
– Enhance vehicle visibility during daylight hours.
– Reduce the risk of daytime collisions.
– Improve road safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
– Increase the likelihood of other drivers noticing the vehicle.
– Potential to decrease the severity of accidents. Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daytime_running_lamp
A daytime running lamp (DRL, also daytime running light) is an automotive lighting and bicycle lighting device on the front of a roadgoing motor vehicle or bicycle, automatically switched on when the vehicle's handbrake has been pulled down, when the vehicle is in gear, or when the engine is started,[clarification needed] emitting white, yellow, or amber light. Their intended use is not to help the driver see the road or their surroundings, but to help other road users identify an active vehicle.
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