What year did daytime running lights become standard?
Daytime running lights (DRLs) are a safety feature on vehicles that automatically turn on the front lights when the engine is running, even during the day. The use of DRLs has become increasingly common in recent decades, with many countries now requiring them as a standard feature on new vehicles.
The History of Daytime Running Lights
Daytime running lights were first introduced in the 1970s as an optional safety feature on some vehicles. The primary purpose of DRLs is to increase the visibility of vehicles on the road, making them more easily seen by other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists, especially in low-light conditions. This can help reduce the risk of collisions, particularly in intersections and other areas where visibility is limited.
The use of DRLs became more widespread in the 1980s and 1990s, as more automakers began offering them as standard or optional equipment. In 1989, Canada became the first country to require DRLs on all new vehicles sold in the country. This was followed by other countries, such as the United States, which mandated DRLs on all new light-duty vehicles starting in the 1990s.
Current Regulations and Adoption
Today, daytime running lights are required on all new vehicles sold in many countries around the world. The European Union, for example, has required DRLs on all new passenger cars and light commercial vehicles since 2011. In the United States, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has required DRLs on all new light-duty vehicles since the 1990s.
The widespread adoption of daytime running lights has been driven by their proven safety benefits. Studies have shown that the use of DRLs can reduce the risk of certain types of collisions by up to 15%, making them an important safety feature for modern vehicles.
Conclusion
Daytime running lights have become a standard feature on most new vehicles sold around the world, with many countries now requiring their use as a safety measure. The widespread adoption of DRLs has been driven by their proven ability to improve visibility and reduce the risk of collisions, making them an important tool in the ongoing effort to improve road safety.
