TS ISO 2575

TS ISO 2575 defines the symbols used for controls, indicators and tell-tales in road vehicles. Its purpose is to make functions easier to identify at a glance and to support more consistent, intuitive vehicle operation. The standard applies to passenger cars, light and heavy commercial vehicles, and buses.

Why control symbols and tell-tales matter

In vehicle interiors, symbols act as compact visual messages in place of text. This reduces language dependence and helps the same control or indicator remain understandable across markets. Optical tell-tales on the instrument panel are used to inform the driver whether a related system is operating correctly or whether a malfunction is present. A notable aspect of this standard is that it describes the purpose and application of the symbols and also indicates the colours of possible optical tell-tales.

General technical context for in-vehicle graphics

From a general engineering standpoint, symbol legibility depends on form, simplicity, contrast, and placement. A well-designed symbol helps drivers find the right function without taking unnecessary attention away from driving. For illuminated indicators, colour helps distinguish the type of message being conveyed: some signals represent normal operation, while others point to a condition that may require attention. TS ISO 2575 is one of the key references for keeping that visual language consistent in road vehicles.

• Covers symbols for passenger cars, light and heavy commercial vehicles, and buses.
• Provides a common graphic language for controls, indicators and tell-tales.
• Describes the purpose and application of the symbols and notes possible tell-tale colours.
• Supports quicker recognition than text-based labelling and reduces language dependence.