Guide To: UNECE R166 - Vulnerable Road Users in Front and Side Close Proximity

Guide To: UNECE R166 - Vulnerable Road Users in Front and Side Close Proximity

UN ECE Regulation No. 166 provides the uniform provisions concerning the approval of devices and motor vehicles aimed at enhancing the driver's awareness of vulnerable road users (VRUs), such as pedestrians and cyclists, who may be in close proximity to the front or lateral sides of the vehicle. This regulation is crucial for improving safety in urban areas, where such interactions between vehicles and VRUs are more common.

Scope of the Regulation

UN ECE R166 applies to:

• Devices and systems installed on motor vehicles of categories M1 and N1 (passenger cars and light commercial vehicles).
• The regulation addresses devices and systems that provide visibility or detection of VRUs in close proximity to the front and lateral sides of vehicles.

Key Features of UN ECE R166

1. Definition of Devices and Systems:

   • Devices can include mirrors, cameras, and detection systems that enhance the driver’s ability to see or detect VRUs.
   • Systems must provide real-time information or warnings to the driver, using visual, acoustic, or haptic signals to alert them of any obstacles within the detection area.

2. Field of Vision and Detection:

   • The regulation defines specific fields of vision and detection areas for VRUs. The field of vision must cover areas in front of the vehicle and to its sides, where VRUs are most likely to be present.
   • Detection systems are required to monitor a certain area adjacent to the vehicle, ensuring that objects or individuals entering this space trigger a warning to the driver.

3. Front and Lateral View Systems (FLVCS):

   • The regulation includes provisions for front and lateral view camera systems (FLVCS), which must provide clear images of the areas around the vehicle. These systems can be activated manually or automatically when the vehicle is in motion.
   • Overlays displaying driving-related or safety information are allowed, but other types of visual clutter are restricted to ensure that the driver’s focus remains on safety.

4. Device Installation Requirements:

   • Devices for front and lateral vision or detection must be installed in such a way that they do not significantly protrude beyond the vehicle’s bodywork, minimizing the risk of damage and ensuring they do not create additional blind spots.
   • The systems must be designed to avoid obstruction or interference from other vehicle components, and must remain effective in various environmental conditions.

5. Testing and Approval:

   • Devices and systems are subjected to rigorous testing, ensuring they meet performance standards under a variety of conditions. The regulation includes provisions for testing methods to determine the reflectivity, field of vision, and detection capabilities of each system.
   • Systems that pass these tests are granted an approval mark, certifying compliance with UN ECE R166.

Conclusion

UN ECE R166 is a vital regulation for enhancing the safety of pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users by ensuring that vehicles are equipped with systems that allow drivers to detect and respond to individuals in close proximity to their vehicles. Compliance with this regulation ensures that vehicles are better equipped to prevent accidents in busy or urban environments.