The biggest trends in truck lighting from leading brands

Truck and trailer lighting is evolving quickly. Manufacturers, fleet managers and drivers no longer look only at basic functionality. They want lighting that improves safety, integrates more intelligently and reduces installation time. Design now plays a bigger role as well.

In the market for 24V truck trailer lighting, three brands stand out: Hella, Strands and TRALERT®. These names are among the best-known and most influential players in Europe. In this article, we explore the key trends shaping the market and compare these brands in terms of innovation, ease of use and market position.

The biggest trends in truck lighting

Within the trailer-building and transport sector, the focus is increasingly on functionality, design and installation efficiency. These developments are especially noticeable:

1. Multifunctional lamps in a single housing

More manufacturers are combining several light functions in one compact unit. Think of a rear light, brake light, indicator and fog light all integrated into a single housing. This reduces the number of mounting points, creates a cleaner finish and lowers the risk of connection errors.

2. Dynamic indicators and sequential side markers

Sequential flashing lights are more noticeable in heavy traffic and poor visibility. As a result, they improve visibility and help other road users respond more quickly. This trend is particularly relevant for vehicles that cover long distances.

3. Multiple rear light units on each side

On long trailers and bodywork, it is increasingly common to see multiple rear light units on each side. These are mounted vertically or horizontally to improve spread and recognition. The result is a stronger light signature and a more professional appearance.

4. Number plate holders with integrated LED lighting

Number plate lighting is becoming smarter too. Modern holders with integrated LED lighting deliver a neat finish, even light distribution and faster installation.

5. Neon-look rear lighting

Demand for neon-look lighting is growing strongly. These units create a smooth, modern light signature that stands out immediately. They therefore enhance both safety and brand appeal, while also giving the vehicle a more premium look.

6. Modular plug-and-play solutions

Installation time is under pressure. That is why modular systems and plug-and-play solutions are gaining ground. They reduce fitting time, minimise errors and help companies work more efficiently. This matters even more in a market where skilled technicians are in short supply.

7. Smart and durable LED systems

LED lighting is becoming more intelligent and more robust. Think of systems that offer better resistance to moisture, vibration and intensive daily use. Durability also matters, with long service life and fewer maintenance intervals.

A notable development is that lighting is no longer chosen solely as a safety component. It is increasingly seen as part of a truck or trailer’s brand identity. Functionality and visual distinction now go hand in hand more than ever.

How we compare the brands

For this comparison, we use five relevant criteria:

• innovation and alignment with current market developments
• durability, approvals and reliability
• light output and real-world performance
• price-quality ratio
• position and recognition in the market

Comparison of leading truck lighting brands

1. Hella

Hella has long been recognised as one of Europe’s most established names in vehicle lighting. The brand has a strong reputation for German engineering, technical reliability and OEM-focused quality. For professional fleets and heavy-duty applications, that remains a key reason to choose Hella.

Hella’s strength lies in proven performance, robust build quality and broad applicability across a wide range of commercial vehicle lighting requirements. This makes the brand a logical choice for companies that value certainty, consistency and long-term reliability.

2. TRALERT®

TRALERT® has built a strong position in the European market through its wide product range, practical lighting solutions and strong focus on everyday commercial vehicle use. The company operates as a European truck lighting wholesaler, offering a broad package for trucks, trailers and work vehicles.

The brand stands out through modular systems, plug-and-play installation and practical product development that matches the needs of installers, trailer builders and distributors. Combined with personal support and a fast-growing presence across Europe, this makes TRALERT® a highly relevant player in today’s market.

3. Strands

Strands has secured a clear position through distinctive design, powerful light signatures and a strong focus on heavy-duty applications. The brand is especially popular among operators and builders who want lighting that delivers both performance and visual impact.

It combines striking appearance with solid functional performance. As a result, Strands appeals strongly to buyers who value styling and visibility alongside reliability.

 

The wider development in truck lighting

Truck lighting is no longer a simple finishing touch. It has become an essential part of safety, efficiency and vehicle appearance. Effective lighting helps drivers and other road users recognise situations more quickly. At the same time, it supports builders and fitters with solutions that are quicker and cleaner to install.

That is why the market is shifting towards lighting that combines multiple functions, reduces installation time and performs reliably under intensive daily use. In transport, trailer building and heavy vehicle applications, every gain in reliability and fitting speed matters.

Design is also becoming more important. A modern light signature improves recognition on the road and strengthens the professional appearance of the truck or trailer. It is this combination of safety, durability and visual quality that makes truck lighting more relevant today than ever.

The biggest trends in truck lighting revolve around multifunctionality, smart integration, fast installation and a powerful light signature. Lighting must not only perform in demanding conditions, but also contribute to a modern and professional vehicle build.

Within this development, TRALERT®, Hella and Strands clearly stand out. Each brand does so in its own way, yet all three respond to the growing demand for reliable, durable and visually strong lighting solutions.