Why does the Wuling Hongguang S have only one reverse light?
2 Answers
Because the Wuling Hongguang S is equipped with only one reverse light, as is the case with many other vehicle models. On the other side, it corresponds to the rear fog light, which also reduces the failure rate. The reverse light is installed at the rear of the car to illuminate the road behind and warn vehicles and pedestrians behind that the car is reversing. All reverse lights are white. Since 2001, China's National Traffic Law has revised regulations, requiring each vehicle to be equipped with at least one fog light and one reverse light. Vehicles less than 6 meters in length are mandated to have one reverse light, with the other being optional. Due to this national regulation, many automakers, in compliance with the law, install only one reverse light. This not only adheres to national legal requirements but also saves manufacturing costs. The national law's reduction of one reverse light has a scientific basis. Since reverse lights are white and highly bright to illuminate the rear, having two symmetrical reverse lights could make it difficult for drivers to see the road ahead clearly. On dark roads at night, this could mistakenly lead drivers to think the car in front is moving in the opposite direction. A single reverse light is more easily identifiable. When the tail light on the other side lights up, it creates a combination of red and white lights, naturally eliminating such misunderstandings. This also benefits color-blind individuals and better captures drivers' attention, helping to avoid traffic accidents.
I've been repairing cars for many years, and it's quite common to encounter situations where the Wuling Hongguang S has only one reverse light working. This is actually a small design detail by the manufacturer, mainly to save costs and simplify the structure. The purpose of the reverse light is to alert vehicles and pedestrians behind you that you're reversing, and one light placed in the middle of the rear bumper is sufficient for visibility; adding another light would increase bulb and wiring costs, and while it might look symmetrical, it's unnecessary. Economical cars like Wuling focus on practicality and cost-effectiveness, and many similar vehicles, such as Chang'an minivans, have similar designs. If you suspect a malfunction, you can first check whether the connector is loose or the fuse is blown, but it's usually not a major issue; it doesn't affect daily use, just be sure to check your mirrors when reversing. Don't compare it to luxury cars—they have different designs.
