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13.7.2012 Official
Journal
of
the
European
Union L
185/1
II
(Non-legislative acts)
ACTS ADOPTED BY BODIES CREATED BY
INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS
Only the original UN/ECE texts have legal effect under international public law. The status and date of entry into force of this Regulation
should be checked in the latest version of the UN/ECE status document TRANS/WP.29/343, available at:
http://www.unece.org/trans/main/wp29/wp29wgs/wp29gen/wp29fdocstts.html
Regulation No 81 of the Economic Commission for Europe of the United Nations (UN/ECE) —
Uniform provisions concerning the approval of rear-view mirrors of two-wheeled power-driven
vehicles with or without side-car, with regard to the mounting of rear-view mirrors on handlebars
Incorporating all valid text up to:
Supplement 2 to the original version of the Regulation — Date of entry into force: 18 June 2007
CONTENTS
REGULATION
1. Scope
I. REAR-VIEW MIRRORS
2. Definitions
3. Application for approval
4. Markings
5. Approval
6. General requirements
7. Special specifications
8. Tests
9. Conformity of production
10. Penalties for non-conformity of production
11. Modification and extension of approval of the type of rear-view mirror
12. Production definitely discontinued
II. INSTALLATION OF REAR-VIEW MIRRORS
13. Definitions
14. Application for approval
15. Approval
16. Requirements
17. Conformity of production
18. Penalties for non-conformity of production
19. Modification and extension of approval of the vehicle type

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20. Production definitely discontinued
21. Names and addresses of technical services responsible for conducting approval tests and of adminis
trative departments
ANNEXES
Annex 1 — Communication concerning the approval or refusal or extension or withdrawal of approval
or production definitely discontinued of a type of rear-view mirror, pursuant to Regulation
No 81
Annex 2 — Communication concerning the approval or refusal or extension or withdrawal of approval or
production definitely discontinued of a vehicle type with regard to the installation of rear-view
mirrors, pursuant to Regulation No 81
Annex 3 — Arrangement of the rear-view mirror approval mark
Annex 4 — Arrangements of the vehicle approval mark concerning the installation of rear-view mirrors
Annex 5 — Test method for determining reflectivity
Annex 6 — Procedure for determining the radius of curvature ‘r’ of a mirror’s reflecting surface
Annex 7 — Control of the conformity of production
1. SCOPE
This Regulation applies:
1.1. To
rear
view
mirrors
intended
to
be
installed
on
vehicles
of
categories
L
( 1 ) without bodywork
partly or wholly enclosing the driver and
1.2. To
the
installation
of
rear
view
mirrors
on
vehicles
of
category
L
without
bodywork
partly
or
wholly enclosing the driver ( 2 ).
I — REAR-VIEW MIRRORS
2. DEFINITIONS
For the purpose of this Regulation,
2.1.
‘Rear-view mirror’ means any device intended to give a clear view to the rear;
2.2. ‘Rear-view
mirror
type’
means
devices
which
do
not
differ
in
respect
of
the
following
main
characteristics:
2.2.1.
The dimensions and radius of curvature of the rear-view mirror reflecting surface,
2.2.2.
The design, shape or materials of the rear-view mirrors, including the connection with the vehicle;
2.3.
‘Class of rear-view mirrors’ means all devices having one or several features or functions in
common.
The rear-view mirrors mentioned in this Regulation are grouped in Class ‘L’.
2.4.
‘r’ means the average of the radii of curvature measured over the reflecting surface, in accordance
with the method described in paragraph 2 of Annex 6 to this Regulation;
( 1 ) As defined in Annex 7 to the Consolidated Resolution on the Construction of Vehicles (R.E.3) (document TRANS/
WP.29/78/Rev.1/Amend.2 as last amended by Amend.4).
( 2 ) For power-driven vehicles having less than four wheels and fitted with bodywork which partly or wholly encloses the
driver the requirements of Regulation No 46 shall apply.

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2.5.
‘Principal radii of curvature at one point obtained on the reflecting surface (ri) and (r′i)’ means the
values obtained using the apparatus defined in Annex 6, measured on the arc of the reflecting
surface contained in a plane parallel to the greatest dimension of the mirror and passing through
its centre and on the arc perpendicular to it;
2.6.
‘Radius of curvature at one point on the reflecting surface (rp)’ means the arithmetic average of
the principal radii of curvature ri and r′i, i.e.:
ri
rp r′i
2
2.7.
‘Centre of the mirror’ means the centroid of the visible area of the reflecting surface;
2.8.
‘Radius of curvature of the constituent parts of the rear-view mirror’ means the radius ‘c’ of the
arc of the circle which most closely approximates to the curved form of the part in question.
3. APPLICATION
FOR
APPROVAL
3.1.
The application for approval of a type of rear-view mirror shall be submitted by the holder of the
trade name or mark or by his duly accredited representative.
3.2.
For each type of rear-view mirror the application shall be accompanied by the undermentioned
documents in triplicate and by the following particulars:
3.2.1. A
technical
description,
including
mounting
instructions
and
specifying
the
type(s)
of
vehicles
for
which the rear-view mirror is intended,
3.2.2. Drawings
sufficiently
detailed
to
enable:
3.2.2.1. Compliance
with
the
general
specifications
prescribed
in
paragraph
6
to
be
verified,
3.2.2.2. Compliance
with
the
dimensions
prescribed
in
paragraph
7.1
to
be
verified
and
3.2.2.3. Compliance with the positioning of the spaces provided for the approval mark and prescribed by
paragraph 4.2 below to be checked.
3.3.
In addition, the application for approval shall be accompanied by four samples of the type of
rear-view mirror. At the request of the technical service responsible for conducting approval tests
supplementary samples may be required.
3.4. The
competent
authority
shall
verify
the
existence
of
satisfactory
arrangements
for
ensuring
effective control of the conformity of production before type-approval is granted.
4. MARKINGS
4.1. The
samples
of
rear-view
mirrors
submitted
for
approval
shall
bear
the
trade
name
or
mark
of
the manufacturer; this marking shall be clearly legible and be indelible.
4.2. Every
rear-view
mirror
shall
possess
on
its
holder
a
space
large
enough
to
accommodate
the
approval mark, which must be legible when the rear-view mirror has been mounted on the
vehicle; this space shall be shown on the drawings referred to in paragraph 3.2.2 above.
5. APPROVAL
5.1.
If the samples submitted for approval meet the requirements of paragraphs 6 to 8 below,
approval of the pertinent type of rear-view mirror shall be granted.
5.2. An
approval
number
shall
be
assigned
to
each
type
approved.
Its
first
two
digits
(at
present
00
for the Regulation in its original form) shall indicate the series of amendments incorporating the
most recent major technical amendments made to the Regulation at the time of issue of the
approval. The same Contracting Party may not assign the same number to another type of rear-
view mirror.

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5.3.
Notice of approval or of extension or refusal of approval of a type of rear-view mirror pursuant
to this Regulation shall be communicated to the Parties to the 1958 Agreement applying this
Regulation by means of a form conforming to the model in Annex 1 to this Regulation.
5.4.
There shall be affixed, conspicuously and in the space referred to in paragraph 4.2 above, to every
rear-view mirror conforming to a type approved under this Regulation, in addition to the mark
prescribed in paragraph 4.1, an international approval mark consisting of:
5.4.1.
A circle surrounding the letter ‘E’ followed by the distinguishing number of the country which
has granted approval ( 3 ),
5.4.2. An
approval
number,
5.4.3.
An additional symbol in the form of the letter ‘L’.
5.5.
The approval mark and the additional symbol shall be clearly legible and be indelible.
5.6. Annex
3
to
this
Regulation
gives
an
example
of
the
arrangement
of
the
approval
mark
and
additional symbol.
6. GENERAL
REQUIREMENTS
6.1. All
rear-view
mirrors
shall
be
adjustable.
6.2. The
edge
of
the
reflecting
surface
shall
be
enclosed
in
a
holder
which,
on
its
perimeter,
shall
have
a value of ‘c’ ≥ 2,5 mm at all points and in all directions. If the reflecting surface projects beyond
the holder, the radius of curvature ‘c’ of the edge of the projecting part shall be not less than
2,5 mm and shall return into the holder under a force of 50 N applied to the point of greatest
projection relative to the holder in a horizontal direction approximately parallel to the longi
tudinal median plane of the vehicle.
6.3. When
the
rear-view
mirror
is
mounted
on
a
plane
surface,
all
its
parts,
irrespective
of
the
adjustment position of the device, including those parts remaining attached to the holder after
the test set out in paragraph 8.2, which are in potential static contact with a sphere 100 mm in
diameter shall have a radius of curvature ‘c’ of not less than 2,5 mm.
6.3.1.
Edges of fixing holes or recesses, which are less than 12 mm in width are exempt from the radius
requirements of paragraph 6.3 provided they are blunted.
6.4.
The parts of rear-view mirrors that are made of a Shore A hardness not greater than 60 are
exempt from the provisions set out in paragraphs 6.2 and 6.3 above.
7. SPECIAL
SPECIFICATIONS
7.1. Dimensions
7.1.1.
The minimum dimensions of the reflecting surface must be such that:
7.1.1.1. The
area
shall
not
be
less
than
69
cm 2 ,
7.1.1.2. In
the
case
of
circular
mirrors,
the
diameter
shall
not
be
less
than
94
mm,
7.1.1.3. In the case of non-circular mirrors, the dimension will permit the inscription of a circle with a
diameter of 78 mm on the reflecting surface.
7.1.2. The
maximum
dimensions
of
the
reflecting
surface
must
be
such
that:
7.1.2.1. In
the
case
of
circular
mirrors,
the
diameter
shall
not
be
greater
than
150
mm,
7.1.2.2. In the case of non-circular mirrors, the reflecting surface shall fit into a rectangle measuring
120 mm by 200 mm.
( 3 ) The distinguishing numbers of the Contracting Parties to the 1958 Agreement are reproduced in Annex 3 to
Consolidated Resolution on the Construction of Vehicles (R.E.3) (document ECE/TRANS/WP.29/78/Rev.2/Amend.1).

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7.2. Reflecting
surface
and
coefficient
of
reflection
7.2.1. The
reflecting
surface
of
a
rear-view
mirror
shall
be
spherically
convex.
7.2.2. Differences
between
the
radii
of
curvature:
7.2.2.1. The
difference
between
ri
or
r′i and rp at each reference point shall not exceed 0,15 r.
7.2.2.2. The difference between any of the radii of curvature (r p1 , r p2 and r p3 ) and r shall not exceed
0,15 r.
7.2.3.
The value of ‘r’ shall not be less than 1 000 mm nor greater than 1 500 mm.
7.2.4.
The value of the normal coefficient of reflection, determined according to the method described
in Annex 5 to this Regulation, shall not be less than 40 %. If the mirror has two positions (‘day’
and ‘night’), the ‘day’ position shall allow the colours of the signals used for road traffic to be
recognised. The value of the normal coefficient of reflection in the ‘night’ position shall not be
less than 4 %.
7.2.5. The
reflecting
surface
shall
retain
the
characteristics
specified
in
paragraph
7.2.4,
in
spite
of
prolonged exposure to adverse weather conditions, in normal conditions of use.
8. TESTS
8.1.
Rear-view mirrors shall be subjected to the tests described in paragraphs 8.2 and 8.3 below, to
determine their behaviour under impact on and bending of the holder secured to the stem or
support.
8.2. Impact
test
8.2.1. Description
of
the
test
device:
8.2.1.1. The test device shall consist of a pendulum capable of swinging about two horizontal axes at
right angles to each other, one of which is perpendicular to the front plane containing the
‘release’ trajectory of the pendulum. The end of the pendulum shall comprise a hammer
formed by a rigid sphere with a diameter of 165 ± 1 mm and having a 5 mm-thick rubber
covering of Shore A 50 hardness. A device shall be provided which permits determination of the
maximum angle assumed by the arm in the plane of release. There shall be a support firmly fixed
to the structure supporting the pendulum which serves to hold the specimens in compliance with
the impact requirements stipulated in paragraph 8.2.2.6 below. Figure 1 below gives the
dimensions of the test facility and the special design specifications.
8.2.1.2. The centre of percussion of the pendulum shall coincide with the centre of the sphere which
forms the hammer. It is at a distance ‘1’ from the axis of oscillation in the release plane which is
equal to 1 m ± 5 mm. The reduced mass of the pendulum to its centre of percussion is m o =
6,8 ± 0,05 kg. The relationship between the centre of gravity of the pendulum and its axis of
rotation is expressed in the equation:
d
m
:

o m 1

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Figure 1
(Dimensions in mm)
8.2.2. Description
of
the
test:
8.2.2.1. The
procedure
used
to
clamp
the
rear-view
mirror
to
the
support
shall
be
that
recommended
by
the manufacturer of the device, or, where appropriate, by the vehicle manufacturer.
8.2.2.2. Positioning
the
rear-view
mirror
for
the
test.
8.2.2.2.1. Rear-view mirrors shall be positioned on the pendulum impact rig such that the axes which are
horizontal and vertical when installed on a vehicle in accordance with the vehicle or rear-view
mirror manufacturers’ mounting instructions are in a similar position.
8.2.2.2.2. When a rear-view mirror is adjustable in relation to the base, the test position shall be the least
favourable for any pivoting device to operate within the limits provided by the mirror or vehicle
manufacturer.
8.2.2.2.3. When the rear-view mirror has a device for adjusting its distance from the base, the device shall
be set in the position where the distance between the holder and the base is shortest.
8.2.2.2.4. When the reflecting surface is mobile in the holder, it shall be adjusted so that the upper corner
which is furthest from the vehicle, is in the position of greatest projection relative to the holder.
8.2.2.3. When the pendulum is in a vertical position, the horizontal and longitudinal vertical planes
passing through the centre of the hammer shall pass through the centre of the mirror as defined
in paragraph 2.7 above. The longitudinal direction of oscillation of the pendulum shall be parallel
to the longitudinal plane of the vehicle.
8.2.2.4. When, under
the
conditions governing
adjustment
prescribed
in paragraphs
8.2.2.2.1
and
8.2.2.2.2 above, parts of the rear-view mirror limit the return of the hammer, the point of
impact shall be shifted in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation or pivot in
question. This displacement shall be that which is strictly necessary for the implementation of
the test.

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It shall be limited in such a way that the point of contact of the hammer is located at least
10 mm from the periphery of the reflecting surface.
8.2.2.5. The test consists in allowing the hammer to fall from a height corresponding to a pendulum
angle of 60° from the vertical so that the hammer strikes the rear-view mirror at the moment
when the pendulum reaches the vertical position.
8.2.2.6. The
rear-view
mirrors
are
subjected
to
impact
in
the
following
different
conditions:
8.2.2.6.1. Test 1: The point of impact shall be as defined in paragraphs 8.2.2.3 or 8.2.2.4 above. The
impact shall be such that the hammer strikes the rear-view mirror on the reflecting surface side.
8.2.2.6.2. Test 2: The point of impact shall be as defined in paragraphs 8.2.2.3 or 8.2.2.4 above. The
impact shall be such that the hammer strikes the rear-view mirror on the opposite side to the
reflecting surface.
8.3.
Bending test on the holder fixed to the stem
8.3.1. Description
of
the
test
8.3.1.1. The
holder
shall
be
placed
horizontally
in
a
device
in
such
a
way
that
the
adjustment
parts
of
the
mounting can be clamped securely. In the direction of the greatest dimension of the holder, the
end nearest to the point of fixing on the adjustment part shall be immobilised by means of a
fixed step 15 mm wide, covering the entire width of the holder.
8.3.1.2. At the other end, a step identical with the one described above shall be placed on the holder so
that the specified test load can be applied to it (see figure 2 below).
8.3.1.3. The end of the holder opposite that at which the force is applied may be clamped instead of kept
in position as shown in figure 2.
Figure 2
Example of bending test apparatus for rear view mirror protective housings
8.3.2. The
test
load
shall
be
25
kg
applied
for
one
minute.
8.4. Results
of
the
tests
8.4.1.
In the tests described in paragraph 8.2 above, the pendulum shall return in such a way that the
projection on the release plane of the position taken by the arm makes an angle of at least 20°
with the vertical.

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8.4.1.1. The
accuracy
of
the
angle
measurement
shall
be
±/1°.
8.4.2.
The mirror shall not break during the tests described in paragraphs 8.2 and 8.3 above. However,
breakage of the reflecting surface of the mirror shall be allowed if one of the following conditions
is fulfilled:
8.4.2.1. The fragments of glass still adhere to the back of the holder or to a surface firmly attached to the
holder, except that partial separation of the glass from its backing is permitted, provided this does
not exceed 2,5 mm either side of the crack. It is permissible for small splinters to become
detached from the surface of the glass at the point of impact;
8.4.2.2. The
mirror
is
made
of
safety
glass.
9. CONFORMITY
OF
PRODUCTION
9.1.
Any rear-view mirror approved pursuant to this Regulation shall be so manufactured as to
conform to the type approved by meeting the requirements set forth in paragraphs 6 to 8 above.
9.2.
In order to verify that the requirements of paragraph 9.1 are met, suitable controls of the
production shall be carried out.
9.3. The
holder
of
the
approval
shall,
in
particular:
9.3.1.
Ensure existence of procedures for the effective control of the quality of rear-view mirrors,
9.3.2.
Have access to the control equipment necessary for checking the conformity of each approved
type,
9.3.3.
Ensure that data of test results are recorded and that annexed documents shall remain available
for a period to be determined in accordance with the administrative service,
9.3.4.
Analyse the results of each type of test, in order to verify and ensure the stability of the rear-view
mirror characteristics, making allowance for variation of an industrial production,
9.3.5. Ensure
that
for
each
type
of
rear-view
mirror
at
least
the
tests
prescribed
in
Annex
7
to
this
Regulation are carried out,
9.3.6.
Ensure that any samples or test pieces giving evidence of non-conformity with the type of test
considered shall give rise to another sampling and another test. All the necessary steps shall be
taken to re-establish the conformity of the corresponding production.
9.4. The
competent
authority
which
has
granted
type-approval
may
at
any
time
verify
the
conformity
control methods applicable to each production unit.
9.4.1. In
every
inspection,
the
test
books
and
production
survey
records
shall
be
presented
to
the
visiting inspector.
9.4.2. The
inspector
may
take
samples
at
random
which
will
be
tested
in
the
manufacturer’s
laboratory.
The minimum number of samples may be determined according to the results of the manu
facturer’s own verification.
9.4.3.
When the quality level appears unsatisfactory or when it seems necessary to verify the validity of
the tests carried out in application of paragraph 9.4.2, the inspector shall select samples to be
sent to the technical service which has conducted the type-approval tests.
9.4.4. The
competent
authority
may
carry
out
any
test
prescribed
in
this
Regulation.
9.4.5. The
normal
frequency
of
inspections
authorised
by
the
competent
authority
shall
be
one
per
two
year. In the case where negative results are recorded during one of these visits, the competent
authority shall ensure that all necessary steps are taken to re-establish the conformity of
production as rapidly as possible.

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10. PENALTIES
FOR
NON-CONFORMITY
OF
PRODUCTION
10.1. The
approval
granted
in
respect
of
a
type
of
rear-view
mirror
pursuant
to
this
Regulation
may
be
withdrawn if the requirements set forth above are not met.
10.2. If
a
Contracting
Party
to
the
Agreement
applying
this
Regulation
withdraws
an
approval
it
has
previously granted, it shall forthwith so notify the other Contracting Parties applying this Regu
lation by means of a communication form conforming to the model in Annex 1 to this
Regulation.
11.
MODIFICATION AND EXTENSION OF APPROVAL OF A TYPE OF REAR-VIEW MIRROR
11.1. Every
modification
of
the
rear-view
mirror
type
shall
be
notified
to
the
administrative
department
which approved the type of rear-view mirror. The department may then either:
11.1.1. Consider
that
the
modifications
made
are
unlikely
to
have
an
appreciable
adverse
effect
and
that
in any case the rear-view mirror still complies with the requirements; or
11.1.2. Require a further test report from the technical service responsible for conducting the tests.
11.2. Confirmation
or
refusal
of
approval,
specifying
the
alterations
shall
be
communicated
by
the
procedure specified in paragraph 5.3 above to the Parties to the Agreement applying this
Regulation.
11.3. The
competent
authority
issuing
the
extension
of
approval
shall
assign
a
series
number
for
such
an extension and inform thereof the other Parties to the 1958 Agreement applying this Regu
lation by means of a communication form conforming to the model in Annex 1 to this
Regulation.
12. PRODUCTION
DEFINITELY
DISCONTINUED
If the holder of the approval completely ceases to manufacture a type of rear-view mirror
approved in accordance with this Regulation, he shall so inform the authority which granted
the approval. Upon receiving the relevant communication that authority shall inform thereof the
other Parties to the 1958 Agreement applying this Regulation by means of a communication
form conforming to the model in Annex 1 to this Regulation.
II — INSTALLATION OF REAR-VIEW MIRRORS
13. DEFINITIONS
For the purpose of this Regulation,
13.1.
‘The maximum design speed’ as specified in paragraph 16.2 of this Regulation.
13.2.
‘Type of vehicle as regards rear-view mirrors’ means vehicles which are identical in respect of the
following basic features:
13.2.1. The geometrical features of the vehicle, liable to influence the installation of rear-view mirrors,
13.2.2. The
positions
and
types
of
rear-view
mirror
specified.
14. APPLICATION
FOR
APPROVAL
14.1. The
application
for
approval
of
a
vehicle
type
with
regard
to
the
installation
of
rear-view
mirrors
shall be submitted by the vehicle manufacturer or by his duly accredited representative.
14.2.
It shall be accompanied by the undermentioned documents in triplicate and by the following
particulars:
14.2.1. A description of the vehicle type with respect to the items mentioned in paragraph 13.2 above;
14.2.2. A list of the components necessary to identify rear-view mirrors which can be installed in the
vehicle;

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14.2.3. Drawings showing the position of the rear-view mirror and its adapting components on the
vehicle.
14.3.
A vehicle representative of the vehicle type to be approved shall be submitted to the technical
service responsible for conducting the approval tests.
14.4. The
competent
authority
shall
verify
the
existence
of
satisfactory
arrangements
for
ensuring
effective control of the conformity of production before type-approval is granted.
15. APPROVAL
15.1.
If the vehicle type submitted for approval in accordance with paragraph 14 above meets the
requirements of paragraph 16 of this Regulation, approval shall be granted.
15.2. An
approval
number
shall
be
assigned
to
each
type
approved.
Its
first
two
digits
(at
present
00,
for the Regulation in its original form) shall indicate the series of amendments incorporating the
most recent major technical amendments made to the Regulation at the time of issue of the
approval. The same Contracting Party may not assign the same number to another vehicle type.
15.3.
Notice of approval or of extension or refusal of approval of a vehicle type pursuant to this
Regulation shall be communicated to the Parties to the 1958 Agreement applying this Regu
lation, by means of a form conforming to the model in Annex 2 to this Regulation.
15.4. There
shall
be
affixed,
conspicuously
and
in
a
readily
accessible
place
specified
on
the
approval
form, to every vehicle conforming to a type approved under this Regulation an international
approval mark consisting of:
15.4.1. A circle surrounding the letter ‘E’ followed by the distinguishing number of the country which
has granted approval ( 4 ),
15.4.2. The number of this Regulation, followed by the letter ‘R’, a dash and the approval number to the
right of the circle prescribed in paragraph 15.4.1.
15.5.
If the vehicle conforms to a vehicle type approved, under one or more other Regulations annexed
to the Agreement, in the country which has granted approval under this Regulation, the symbol
prescribed in paragraph 15.4.1 need not be repeated; in such a case, the Regulation and approval
numbers and the additional symbols of all the Regulations under which approval has been
granted in the country which has granted approval under this Regulation shall be placed in
vertical columns to the right of the symbol prescribed in paragraph 15.4.1.
15.6.
The approval mark shall be clearly legible and be indelible.
15.7. The
approval
mark
shall
be
placed
close
to
or
on
the
vehicle
data
plate
affixed
by
the
manu
facturer.
15.8.
Annex 4 to this Regulation gives examples of arrangements of the approval mark.
16. REQUIREMENTS
16.1. The
vehicle
shall
meet
the
following
requirements:
16.1.1. The
rear-view
mirrors
installed
on
the
vehicle
shall
be
of
Class/L
type
approved
under
this
Regulation.
16.1.2. Rear-view
mirrors
shall
be
fixed
in
such
a
way
that
they
remain
steady
under
normal
conditions
of use.
16.2. Number
16.2.1. All
two-wheeled
vehicles
with
a
maximum
design
speed
not
exceeding
50
km/h
must
be
fitted
with at least one rear-view mirror. If one only, this rear-view mirror must be fitted on the left
side of the vehicle in countries with right-hand rule of the road, and on the right side of the
vehicle in countries with left-hand rule of the road.
( 4 ) See footnote 3 of paragraph 5.4.1.

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13.7.2012 Official
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European
Union L
185/11
16.2.2. All
two-wheeled
vehicles
with
a
maximum
design
speed
exceeding
50
km/h
and
all
three-wheeled
vehicles must be fitted with two rear-view mirrors, one on the left and one on the right of the
vehicle.
16.3. Site
16.3.1. Rear-view mirrors must be mounted or adjusted in such a way that the distance of the centre of
the reflective surface, as measured in a horizontal plane, is at least 280 mm outward from the
longitudinal vertical plane passing through the centre of the steering head of the vehicle. Before
the measurement, the handlebar shall be placed in the straight ahead position and the mirror(s)
shall be adjusted to its (their) normal position.
16.4. Adjustment
16.4.1. Rear-view mirror(s) shall be such that the driver can adjust it (them) in the normal driving
position.
17. CONFORMITY
OF
PRODUCTION
17.1.
Any vehicle approved pursuant to this Regulation shall be so manufactured as to conform to the
type approved by meeting the requirements set out in paragraph 16 above.
17.2. In
order
to
verify
that
the
requirements
of
paragraph
17.1
above
are
met,
suitable
controls
of
the
production shall be carried out.
17.3. The
holder
of
the
approval
shall
in
particular:
17.3.1. Ensure existence of procedures for the effective control of the quality of the vehicles as regards all
aspects relevant for compliance with the requirements set out in paragraph 16 above;
17.3.2. Ensure
that
for
each
type
of
vehicle
sufficient
checks
are
carried
out
as
regards
the
number
and
type of the rear-view mirrors and the dimensions relevant for their correct installation in order to
ensure that all vehicles in production comply with the specifications given for the vehicle which
was submitted for type- approval;
17.3.3. Ensure
that,
if
the
checks
carried
out
pursuant
to
paragraph
17.3.2
above
give
evidence
of
non-
conformity of one or more vehicles with the requirements set out in paragraph 16 above, all
necessary steps are taken to re-establish the conformity of the corresponding production.
17.4. The
competent
authority
which
has
granted
type-approval
may
at
any
time
verify
the
conformity
control methods applicable to each production unit. It may also carry out any random checks on
serially-manufactured vehicles regarding the requirements set out in paragraph 16 above.
17.5.
In the case where negative results are recorded during the verifications and checks pursuant to
paragraph 17.4 above, the competent authority shall ensure that all necessary steps are taken to
re-establish the conformity of production as rapidly as possible.
18. PENALTIES
FOR
NON-CONFORMITY
OF
PRODUCTION
18.1.
The approval granted in respect of a vehicle type pursuant to this Regulation may be withdrawn
if the requirements set forth above are not met.
18.2. If
a
Contracting
Party
to
the
Agreement
applying
this
Regulation
withdraws
an
approval
it
has
previously granted, it shall forthwith so notify the other Contracting Parties applying this Regu
lation, by means of a communication form conforming to the model in Annex 2 to this
Regulation.
19. MODIFICATION
AND
EXTENSION
OF
APPROVAL
OF
THE
VEHICLE
TYPE
19.1.
Every modification of the vehicle type shall be notified to the administrative department which
approved the vehicle type. The department may then either:
19.1.1. Consider
that
the
modifications
made
are
unlikely
to
have
an
appreciable
adverse
effect
and
that
in any case the vehicle still complies with the requirements; or

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L 185/12
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Official Journal of the European Union
13.7.2012
19.1.2. Require a further test report from the technical service responsible for conducting the tests.
19.2. Confirmation
or
refusal
of
approval,
specifying
the
alterations
shall
be
communicated
by
the
procedure specified in paragraph 15.3 above to the Parties to the Agreement applying this
Regulation.
19.3. The
competent
authority
issuing
the
extension
of
approval
shall
assign
a
series
number
for
such
an extension and inform thereof the other Parties to the 1958 Agreement applying this Regu
lation by means of a communication form conforming to the model in Annex 2 to this
Regulation.
20. PRODUCTION
DEFINITELY
DISCONTINUED
If the holder of the approval completely ceases to manufacture a vehicle type approved in
accordance with this Regulation, he shall so inform the authority which granted the approval.
Upon receiving the relevant communication, that authority shall inform thereof the other Parties
to the 1958 Agreement applying this Regulation by means of a communication form conforming
to the model in Annex 2 to this Regulation.
21. NAMES
AND
ADDRESSES
OF
TECHNICAL
SERVICES
RESPONSIBLE
FOR
CONDUCTING
APPROVAL
TESTS AND OF ADMINISTRATIVE DEPARTMENTS
The Parties to the 1958 Agreement applying this Regulation shall communicate to the United
Nations Secretariat the names and addresses of the technical services responsible for conducting
approval tests and of the administrative departments which grant approval and to which forms
certifying approval or extension or refusal or withdrawal of approval, issued in other countries,
are to be sent.

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EN
13.7.2012 Official
Journal
of
the
European
Union L
185/13
ANNEX 1
COMMUNICATION
(maximum format: A4 (210 × 297 mm))

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L 185/14
EN
Official Journal of the European Union
13.7.2012
ANNEX 2
COMMUNICATION
(maximum format: A4 (210 × 297 mm))

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EN
13.7.2012 Official
Journal
of
the
European
Union L
185/15
ANNEX 3
ARRANGEMENT OF THE REAR-VIEW MIRROR APPROVAL MARK
(See paragraph 5.4 of the Regulation)
a = 8 mm min
The above approval mark affixed to a rear-view mirror indicates that the mirror is a rear-view mirror, of type L, which
has been approved in the Netherlands (E 4) under approval number 002439. The first two digits of the approval number
indicate that the approval was granted in accordance with the requirements of Regulation No 81 in its original form.
Note: The approval number and the additional symbol must be placed close to the circle and either above or below the ‘E’
or to the left or right of that letter. The digits of the approval number must be on the same side of the ‘E’ and point in
the same direction. The additional symbol must be directly opposite the approval number. The use of Roman numerals as
approval numbers should be avoided so as to prevent any confusion with other symbols.

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L 185/16
EN
Official Journal of the European Union
13.7.2012
ANNEX 4
ARRANGEMENTS OF THE VEHICLE APPROVAL MARK CONCERNING THE INSTALLATION OF REAR-VIEW
MIRRORS
Model A
(See paragraph 15.4 of the Regulation)
a = 8 mm min
The above approval mark affixed to a vehicle shows that the vehicle type concerned has been approved in the
Netherlands (E 4) pursuant to Regulation No 81 under approval number 002439. The first two digits of the approval
number indicate that the approval was granted in accordance with the requirements of Regulation No 81 in its original
form.
Model B
(See paragraph 15.5 of the Regulation)
a = 8 mm min
The above approval mark affixed to a vehicle shows that the vehicle type concerned has been approved in the
Netherlands (E 4) pursuant to Regulations No 81 and No 47 ( 1 ). The first two digits of the approval numbers
indicate that, at the dates when the respective approvals were granted, Regulation No 81 had not been modified, and
Regulation No 47 already included the 01 series of amendments.
( 1 ) The second number is given as an example only.

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EN
13.7.2012 Official
Journal
of
the
European
Union L
185/17
ANNEX 5
TEST METHOD FOR DETERMINING REFLECTIVITY
1. DEFINITIONS
1.1. CIE
standard
illuminant
A
( 1 ):
λ
x
(λ)
600 1,062
2
620 0,854
4
650 0,283
5
1.2. CIE
standard
source
A
( 1 ): Gas-filled tungsten filament lamp operating at a correlated colour temperature of
T 68 = 2 855,6 K.
1.3. CIE
1931
standard
colorimetric
observer
( 1 ): Receptor of radiation whose colorimetric characteristics correspond to
the spectral tristimulus values xλ, y(λ), z(λ) (see table).
1.4. CIE
spectral
tristimulus
values
( 1 ): Tristimulus values of the spectral components of an equi-energy spectrum in the
CIE (XYZ) system.
1.5. Photopic
vision
( 1 ): Vision by the normal eye when it is adapted to levels of luminance of at least several candelas
per square metre.
2. APPARATUS
2.1. General
2.1.1. The apparatus shall consist of a light source, a holder for the test sample, a receiver unit with a photodetector and
an indicating meter (see figure 1), and a means of eliminating the effects of extraneous light.
2.1.2. The receiver may incorporate a light-integrating sphere to facilitate measuring the reflectance of non-flat (convex)
mirrors (see figure 2).
2.2. Spectral
characteristics
of
light
source
and
receiver.
2.2.1. The light source shall consist of a CIE standard source A and associated optics to provide a near-collimated light
beam. A voltage stabiliser is recommended to maintain a fixed lamp voltage during instrument operation.
2.2.2. The receiver shall have a photodetector with a spectral response proportional to the photopic luminosity function
of the CIE (1931) standard colorimetric observer (see table). Any other combination of illuminant-filter-receptor
giving the overall equivalent of CIE standard illuminant A and photopic vision may be used. When an integrating
sphere is used in the receiver, the interior surface of the sphere shall be coated with a matt (diffusive) spectrally
non-selective white coating.
2.3. Geometric
conditions
2.3.1. The angle of the incident beam (0) should preferably be 0,44 ± 0,09 rad (25 ± 5°) from the perpendicular to the
test surface and shall not exceed the upper limit of the tolerance (i.e. 0,53 rad or 30°). The axis of the receptor
shall make an angle (0) with this perpendicular equal to that of the incident beam (see figure 1). The incident beam
upon arrival at the test surface shall have a diameter of not less than 19 mm. The reflected beam shall not be
wider than the sensitive area of the photodetector, shall not cover less than 50 % of such area, and as nearly as
possible shall cover the same area segment as used during instrument calibration.
2.3.2. When an integrating sphere is used in the receiver section, the sphere shall have a minimum diameter of 127 mm.
The sample and incident beam apertures in the sphere wall shall be of such a size as to admit the entire incident
and reflected light beams. The photodetector shall be located so as not to receive direct light from either the
incident or the reflected beams.
( 1 ) Definitions taken from CIE Publication 50 (45), International Electronical Vocabulary, Group/45: lighting.

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L 185/18
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Official Journal of the European Union
13.7.2012
2.4. Electrical
characteristics
of
the
photodetector-indicator
unit
The photodetector output as read on the indicating meter shall be a linear function of the light intensity on the
photosensitive area. Means (electrical and/or optical) shall be provided to facilitate zeroing and calibration adjust
ments. Such means shall not affect the linearity or the spectral characteristics of the instrument. The accuracy of
the receptor-indicator unit shall be with ± 2 % of full scale, or ± 10 % of the magnitude of the reading, whichever
is the smaller.
2.5. Sample
holder
The mechanism shall be capable of locating the test sample so that the axes of the source arm and receptor are
intersecting at the reflecting surface. The reflecting surface may lie within or at either face of the mirror sample,
depending on whether it is a first-surface, second-surface, or prismatic ‘flip’ type mirror.
3. PROCEDURE
3.1. Direct
calibration
method
3.1.1. In the direct calibration method, air is used as the reference standard. This method is applicable for those
instruments which are so constructed as to permit calibration at the 100 % point by swinging the receiver to a
position directly on the axis of the light source (see figure 1).
3.1.2. It may be desired in some cases (such as when measuring low-reflectivity surfaces) to use an intermediate cali
bration point (between 0 and 100 % on the scale) with this method. In these cases a neutral density filter of
known transmittance shall be inserted in the optical path, and the calibration control shall then be adjusted until
the meter reads the percentage transmission of the neutral density filter. This filter shall be removed before making
reflectivity measurements.
3.2. Indirect
calibration
method
The indirect calibration method is applicable for those instruments with fixed source and receiver geometry. A
properly calibrated and maintained reflectance standard is required. This reference standard should preferably be a
flat mirror with a reflectance value as near as possible to that of the test samples.
3.3. Non-flat
(convex)
mirror
measurement
The measurement of the reflectance of non-flat (convex) mirrors requires the use of instruments which incorporate
an integrating sphere in the receiver unit (see figure 2). If the instrument indicating meter indicates n e divisions
with a reference standard mirror of E per cent reflectance, then, with a mirror of unknown reflectance, n x divisions
will correspond to a reflectance of X per cent, given by the formula:
n
X

x
E n e
Figure 1
Generalised reflectometer showing geometries for the two calibration methods

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EN
13.7.2012 Official
Journal
of
the
European
Union L
185/19
Figure 2
Generalised reflectometer, incorporating an integrating sphere in the receptor
SPECTRAL TRISTIMULUS VALUES FOR THE CIE 1931 STANDARD COLORIMETRIC OBSERVER ( 1 )
(This table is taken from CIE Publication 50(45) (1970))
λ nm x
(λ)
yλ
zλ
380 0,0014 0,0000 0,0065
390 0,0042 0,0001 0,0201
400 0,0143 0,0004 0,0679
410 0,0435 0,0012 0,2074
420 0,1344 0,0040 0,6456
430 0,2839 0,0116 1,3856
440 0,3483 0,0230 1,7471
450 0,3362 0,0380 1,7721
460 0,2908 0,0600 1,6692
470 0,1954 0,0910 1,2876
480 0,0956 0,1390 0,8130
490 0,0320 0,2080 0,4652
500 0,0049 0,3230 0,2720
510 0,0093 0,5030 0,1582
520 0,0633 0,7100 0,0782
530 0,1655 0,8620 0,0422

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L 185/20
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Official Journal of the European Union
13.7.2012
λ nm x
(λ)
yλ
zλ
540 0,2904 0,9540 0,0203
550 0,4334 0,9950 0,0087
560 0,5945 0,9950 0,0039
570 0,7621 0,9520 0,0021
580 0,9163 0,8700 0,0017
590 1,0263 0,7570 0,0011
600 1,0622 0,6310 0,0008
610 1,0026 0,5030 0,0003
620 0,8544 0,3810 0,0002
630 0,6424 0,2650 0,0000
640 0,4479 0,1750 0,0000
650 0,2335 0,1070 0,0000
660 0,1649 0,0610 0,0000
670 0,0874 0,0320 0,0000
680 0,0468 0,0170 0,0000
690 0,0227 0,0082 0,0000
700 0,0114 0,0041 0,0000
710 0,0058 0,0021 0,0000
720 0,0029 0,0010 0,0000
730 0,0014 0,0005 0,0000
740 0,0007 0,0002
( 2 ) 0,0000
750 0,0003 0,0001 0,0000
760 0,0002 0,0001 0,0000
770 0,0001 0,0000 0,0000
780 0,0000 0,0000 0,0000
( 1 ) Abridged table. The values of yλ Vλ are rounded off to four decimal places.
( 2 ) Changed in 1966 (from 3 to 2).

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EN
13.7.2012 Official
Journal
of
the
European
Union L
185/21
Explanatory figure
Example of device for measuring the reflection factor of spherical mirrors
C = Receiver
D = Diaphragm
E = Window of entry
F = Window
of
measurement
L = Lens
M = Object window
S = Light
source
(S) = Integrating sphere

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L 185/22
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Official Journal of the European Union
13.7.2012
ANNEX 6
PROCEDURE FOR DETERMINING THE RADIUS OF CURVATURE ‘r’ OF A MIRROR’S REFLECTING
SURFACE
1. Measurements
1.1. Equipment
The ‘spherometer’ described in the figure is used.
1.2. Measuring
points
1.2.1. The principal radii of curvature shall be measured at 3 points situated as close as possible to positions at 1/3, 1/2
and 2/3 of the distance along the arc of the reflecting surface contained in a plane parallel to the greatest
dimension of the mirror and passing through its centre and on the arc perpendicular to it.
1.2.2. Where, because of mirror size, it is impossible to obtain measurement in the directions defined in item 1.2.1 the
technical departments responsible for the tests may take measurements at this point in two perpendicular
directions as close as possible to those prescribed above.
2. Calculation
of
the
radius
of
curvature
(r)
‘r’ expressed in mm is calculated using the formula:
r
r
p1
r p2 r p3
3
where r p1 is the radius of curvature of the first measuring point, r p2 at the second and r p3 at the third.

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EN
13.7.2012 Official
Journal
of
the
European
Union L
185/23
ANNEX 7
CONTROL OF THE CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION
1. DEFINITIONS
For the purpose of this Annex,
‘Type of deflection system’ means a given combination of axes, swivel points and other articulating mechanisms
which ensures deflection of the rear-view mirror in the direction of impact concerned.
2. TESTS
Rear-view mirrors shall be subjected to the following tests:
2.1. Reflecting
surface
2.1.1. Verification of the nominal radius of curvature, pursuant to the requirements of paragraph 2 of Annex 6 to this
Regulation;
2.1.2. Measurement of the differences between radii of curvature pursuant to the requirements of paragraph 7.2.2 of this
Regulation.
2.2. Deflection
system
Impact test pursuant to the requirements of paragraph 8.2 of this Regulation.
3. FREQUENCY
AND
RESULTS
OF
TESTS
3.1. Verification of the nominal radius of curvature and measurement of the differences between radii of curvature
3.1.1. Frequency:
One test every three months, per approval number, per nominal radius of curvature.
3.1.2. Results:
All measurement results shall be recorded.
The maximum difference values prescribed in paragraph 7.2.2 of this Regulation shall be complied with.
3.2. Impact
test
3.2.1. Frequency:
One test every three months, per approval number, per type of deflection system, per base configuration.
3.2.2. Results:
All results shall be recorded.
The provisions of paragraph 8.4 of this Regulation shall be complied with.
3.3. Selection
of
samples
The selection of samples to be tested shall take account of the quantity produced for each type of rear-view
mirrors.

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