The World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations (ECE Regulations) develops and maintains international-consensus UN Regulations on light sources acceptable for use in lamps on vehicles and trailers type-approved for use in countries that recognise the UN Regulations. These include Regulation 37, [1] which contains specifications for filament lamps, and Regulation 99 and its addenda [2] [3]

EXTENSIVE RANGE OF QUALITY BULBS – Simply’s extensive range of automotive light bulbs are carefully created for a long-lasting, high performance quality driving experience, range from headlight to gas discharge, auxiliary, and chrome bulbs. Your driving needs and safety are our greatest concern. In Canada, vehicle headlamps may use light sources (bulbs) conforming to either the US or the international ECE regulations. [8] :108(5)(a) Replaceable Light Sources for Vehicle Headlamps Bulb Type

Despite their similarities, each of these bulb types is slightly different. They differ in number of filaments, nominal power, and base type.

It's worth noting here that problems will mostly occur when switching between fittings. If you want to upgrade your bulbs, you shouldn't have any problems with any wattage or voltage change, unless you're installing an aftermarket kit. Upgrade bulbs from a reputable source such as PowerBulbs are perfectly safe to install and use. Although xenons generally last much longer than halogen bulbs, their light output can decrease over time, so eventually they won’t emit enough light to be safe for night use. Some manufacturers therefore recommend replacing xenon bulbs every three years. Xenon headlights are a popular choice for luxury cars, using metals and heat gases to create a bright blue or white glow. While the brightness and range of the light is impressive, xenon bulbs can dazzle other drivers and create glare. More light allows to see farther and therefore react sooner. Signs, obstacles and hazards can be recognised sooner

Types of car headlight bulbs compared

The H17 and H18 bulbs are smaller, more powerful halogen bulbs, while the H8, H9 and H11 are self-sealing bulbs that don’t have to sit inside a watertight unit, so they’re often used as foglights. Some bulbs have only one filament, but others have two. Also known as dual filament bulbs, these are used to power both the main and dipped beam of your headlights. One filament is dedicated to each purpose. This can be easier for drivers, as you only have one headlight bulb. Cars that use single filament need one bulb for the main and another for the dipped. UN Regulation 37 covers motor vehicle filament lamps. These are categorized in three groups: those without general restriction that can be used in any application, those acceptable only for signalling lights (not for road illumination lamps), and those no longer allowable as light sources for new type approvals but still permitted for production as replacement parts. LED or light emitting diodes are now replacing xenons on new cars, because they are more energy efficient, last longer and allow car makers to create signature light shapes.