Headlight knowledge for off-road enthusiasts in Europe

What you need to know about LED light bars & work lights

Whether on gravel roads, while camping, or in remote areas, good lighting is crucial for any off-road adventure. However, not every light is suitable for use on public roads. In this guide, you'll learn what to look for when choosing a light, how to travel legally throughout Europe, and what advantages the E-approved LED solutions from horntools offer.

LED light bar vs. work light – differences & areas of application

Feature	LED light bar	Work lights
Design	Slim, linear	Compact, usually round or square
Light characteristics	Wide beam, forward facing	Wide illumination in the near field
Installation locations	Front grille, bumpers, roof rack	Side, rear, loading area, roof
Road legal	Yes, with E-marking	No, only allowed when stationary

E-marking & test numbers – valid throughout the EU

In order for you to legally use your auxiliary lights on European roads, each light must have an E-mark, e.g.:

E9 10R-05 12345

• E9 : Type approval from Spain (each number stands for a different EU country)
• 10R : UNECE Directive R10 (electromagnetic compatibility)
• 12345 : individual verification number

Reference value: The magic limit of 100

The sum of the reference values of all high beams installed on the vehicle must not exceed 100 .

Example:

• Standard high beam: 2 × 17.5 = 35
• horntools Lightbar: Reference value 45
• Remaining: 20 for additional lights

When is acceptance required?

Only if:

• there is no E-marking,
• the reference value is exceeded or
• the mounting position is not permitted (e.g. roof mounting without switching function)

Work lights – rules for legal use

• Only allowed when stationary
• No E-registration required
• Must be switchable separately
• Must not dazzle other road users

Strands LED at horntools – Premium for your off-road vehicle

• Road legal with E-mark and reference value
• Shock and vibration resistant
• Waterproof and dustproof Strands LEDs (IP67/IP69K) 
• Perfect light distribution for off-road & road

Conclusion: Legally safe with light into the adventure

With the E-approved LED light bars and work lights from horntools, you are on the safe side throughout Europe – at work, off-road and when traveling.

Strands Lightning