Ring has conducted tests in its in-house laboratory and found instances of non-road legal bulbs that could be contributing to headlight glare. While acknowledging concerns around LED glare, Ring clarifies that factory-fitted LED units comply with regulations. The issue appears to stem from the use of non-approved LED retrofit bulbs in halogen-designed headlamps and, worryingly, from substandard halogen bulbs.
Ring’s testing has revealed a concerning trend of poor-quality halogen bulbs on the market that fail to meet necessary safety standards. As the only UK lighting supplier with its own testing laboratory, Ring regularly assesses its own products and those of competitors to ensure compliance with legal regulations, specifically ECE Regulation 37. This regulation outlines precise specifications for light output, filament geometry, voltage, and wattage to ensure driver visibility without dazzling other road users. Fitting non-approved bulbs in approved light assemblies is illegal under UK law.
Testing of various brands revealed bulbs exceeding maximum wattage and lumen levels significantly, posing risks of overheating and glare. In one instance, a bulb’s chrome end cap deteriorated after only a few minutes of use. Many bulbs also failed to comply with ECE Regulation 37, rendering them illegal for road use. Photometry tests showed instances of excessive 5W filament output, incorrect amber colour, and poor beam patterns, all contributing to potential glare.
Andy Gratton, Managing Director at Ring Automotive, emphasised the company’s responsibility as a market leader to ensure that distributors and technicians sell and fit safe, compliant, and high-quality bulbs. He highlighted that these are safety-critical products where regulatory compliance is essential. Ring’s findings, from tests conducted in their UK and German facilities, present a challenge for the aftermarket. Gratton stressed that despite their relatively low cost, bulbs are a critical safety component and there is no excuse for non-compliant products to be used, reaffirming Ring’s commitment to improving road safety and ensuring identified issues are properly reported.
