Interpretation ID: 86-1.2
TYPE: INTERPRETATION-NHTSA
DATE: 01/01/86 EST
FROM: ROGER WILLIAMS -- PRESIDENT TECHNICAL HALLMARK ENTERPRISES INC
TO: NHTSA
TITLE: NONE
ATTACHMT: ATTACHED TO LETTER DATED 07/18/86, TO ROGER WILLIAMS FROM ERIKA Z JONES, REDBOOK A29(3), STANDARD 108
TEXT: Dear Sir:
I am writing this letter as an inquiry of what regulations if any are applicable to the new lights that are now being seen on the trunk lids, and the rear windows of new automobiles.
Are there any laws regarding size of the light, color of lens, location, if there are any restrictions on when the light is allowed to come on and if a sequencing such as two or possibly even three individual bulbs pulsating in a on/off pattern would be legal? Would it be possible to allow the light to take on a specific shape or in this case logo or design (example - an Eagle, Cat, bolt of lightning). Could the light be in the form of letters or numbers (#1, U C L A.).
Is there a specific legal name for this light?
Should your department not be able to answer these questions or maybe only part of them, it would be very much appreciated if you would forward it to the correct one. If this is not possible please inform me of the address of that department and I will contact them.
We are looking into the possibility of manufacturing similar lights for installation on automobiles that do not have them and would need the above information to be sure we are within the law.
Thank you very much for your time and help in this effort.
Sincerely,