
Driving lights are used to supplement vehicle headlight systems. The driving lights are fitted to the front of the vehicle and provide higher intensity illumination over longer distances than standard headlight systems. Vehicle design rules and regulations specify the limitations in relation to the positioning of driving lights. It is essential that the local regulations are adhered to when fitting or adjusting driving lights.
There are many types of driving lights available. They come in different sizes, different shapes and varying lamp/light bulb wattage. In some instances a single driving light can be fitted to suit particular applications, but they are normally fitted in pairs.
Most driving lights use quartz halogen bulbs in the 55 watts to 120 watts range. The quality of the reflector is extremely important in driving lights to get optimum performance.
Driving lights are wired so that they only operate when high beam is operating. This safety feature ensures that driving lights turn off when the headlights are dipped from high to low beam, thus ensuring oncoming traffic does not get accidentally blinded by excessive light.
A relay and circuit breaker should always be used for driving lights for safety reasons.