Truck lighting: all about visibility

Truck lighting: from halogen to LED

Generally speaking, trucks use halogen or LED lights, with the traditional halogen bulb being the cheapest option. The halogen bulb emits light via a filament, which is subjected to wear. An LED light features light-emitting diodes, and it is impossible for these diodes to simply fail. Although the technology means the light is more expensive, it also lasts longer. The light output of an LED light is also larger, wider and deeper, and the white colour is gentler for drivers. Due to these benefits, LED is currently the main lighting source in our trucks.

How people perceive truck lighting

How people perceive light is something that must not be underestimated. There are numerous aspects that influence how the human eye interprets light, including the intensity, spread and colour of the light, as well as the position in relation to the light. At DAF, we combine all perspectives in order to achieve an optimum point. As a result, the unique DAF light colour is designed to optimise performance in the most common situations.

Expanding truck lighting

As you would expect, every DAF truck is equipped with all of the standard lighting needed to allow it to be driven safely. You can also buy a range of additional bulbs and accessories to increase visibility, from signal lights and flashing lights to marker lights and work lights. If you are adding lights to your truck, remember to take the applicable laws and regulations into consideration, as installing excessive lighting is not permitted. If the lights are an obstruction or blind oncoming drivers, they will result in the truck failing its annual MOT. DAF dealers are familiar with the specific types of lighting that are approved under these laws and regulations, so you can always ask your dealer for advice.

The ultimate tip for truck lighting

Kurosch Asghari, System Owner Vehicle Exterior Lighting at DAF Trucks says: "Never touch the lens of the headlights! This is made from polycarbonate with an ultraviolet coating that protects it against UV radiation. If you damage the coating (for example, by scraping off ice in winter), then the glass will turn yellow. This is impractical, unsafe and also affects the appearance of the truck. You can polish the yellow glass, but it will turn yellow again within a few months, and that's a real shame. If you don't touch the lights, they will still look as good as new after 10 years."

So, how should you clean these lights if they get dirty?

Follow these four tips every time:

• Only use a soft sponge to clean the lights

• Use a special window cleaning product or just soapy water

• Do not use an ice scraper or an automatic car wash

• Maintain a distance of at least 50 cm when using a pressure washer

Do you have any questions about truck lighting?

If you want to know more about truck lighting or the rules about adding lights to your truck, then feel free to contact a DAF dealer near you. They will be happy to provide you with additional information and advice regarding truck lighting.