Marker lights
Width lighting for trucks and trailers is a legally mandatory component of the vehicle lighting system on semi-trailers, trailers and heavy commercial vehicles. The regulations governing side marking are set out in ECE R7, which defines the requirements for position lights and marker lights, and ECE R48, which regulates the installation and positioning of lighting on vehicles. For every vehicle exceeding a certain width threshold, the fitment of front and rear width marker lights is compulsory, as is side marking along the length of the vehicle. Dekoff supplies width lighting that complies with these standards and is tailored to the requirements of the professional truck and trailer sector.
A marker light for a semi-trailer must meet strict requirements regarding light colour, viewing angle and mounting. Under ECE R7, a marker light fitted at the front must emit white light and at the rear red light. Combined units emitting both white and red light from a single housing are therefore a technically considered solution for corner mounting on semi-trailers and trailers. This type of lamp reduces the number of individual light points to be installed and simplifies wiring, which is a relevant consideration in trailer construction practice.
Side marker lamps for trucks and width lights for semi-trailers at 24V must withstand the mechanical loads and environmental conditions characteristic of heavy transport. Vibration, temperature fluctuations, cleaning agents and water spray place high demands on the housing, sealing and electrical connections of marker lights. The voltage of 24 volts is the standard in the European heavy transport sector and all width lighting in this range is matched to this requirement. LED versions offer a longer service life and lower power consumption compared to filament lamp variants, which is a practical advantage when marker lights are continuously active over extended driving periods.
Within the width lighting category, several design variants are available, each with specific application characteristics. The angled model with a housing length of 190 mm is designed for light distribution in multiple directions simultaneously, which is particularly important at corner positions on the semi-trailer where visibility from multiple angles is legally required. The right-angle bracket version enables mounting on flat and slightly curved surfaces without additional adapters, while the pendulum lamp with an adjustable angle allows the installer to fine-tune the light emission direction after fitting. This is useful on vehicles with non-standard bodywork or in retrofit applications where original mounting positions do not meet current ECE R48 requirements.
Amber side marker lights also form part of the width lighting range. Regulations require that side markers along the vehicle length be executed in amber. These lights make the vehicle length visible to other road users, particularly at intersections and during overtaking manoeuvres in darkness. The lens colour and light distribution of these units are aligned with the requirements of ECE R7, allowing certified application on vehicles operating on the European road network without additional inspection.
In the daily practice of the trailer builder, bodywork manufacturer and truck workshop, width lighting is a component that arises regularly in both new build and repair or replacement work. Semi-trailers being re-approved after repair must comply with current lighting regulations. Workshops servicing vehicles in international transport have a particular interest in components demonstrably certified to ECE R7 and ECE R48. The width lighting range at Dekoff is composed for professional use, with versions for 24V systems and a choice of mounting variants that correspond to the diverse constructions of modern semi-trailers and trailers.