In 2011, the EU introduced rules allowing cars to have their rear lights turned off during the day. However, there has been a change of heart, and it may soon become mandatory to have the rear lights on all year round again.

The EU rules allowing for the rear lights to be turned off during the day were introduced to save energy, but with LED lights, the energy savings are minimal. Experts also argue that driving with the rear lights off, even during the day, significantly reduces safety.

A change is now underway, and from September 22, 2024, all cars approved in the EU must have DRL (daytime running lights) and rear position lights activated simultaneously, even when the lighting conditions are good. At a brightness of 7,000 lux, equivalent to daylight on a cloudy day, or less, the light combination must be active. At a brightness of less than 1,000 lux, the car’s low beams must be activated.

According to Vi Bilägare, it is now proposed that all new cars sold in the EU, even those approved before September 22, 2024, should be included.

Welcomed by researchers

Björn Lidestam, a researcher at VTI who conducted a study on rear lights in daylight and their effect on traffic safety, welcomes the new rules.

“In my opinion, based on the study I conducted last year, this sounds great,” he says.

Traffic police officer Joakim Abrahamsson does not approve of cars with lights that are turned on and off by a sensor.

“You can’t rely on it. If you drive with the rear lights off in fog, there is a risk that someone will rear-end you. Imagine if you then enter an oncoming lane, and a timber truck is coming,” says traffic police officer Joakim Abrahamsson to Carup.

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