8512 - Electrical lighting or signaling equipment (excluding articles of heading 8539), windshield wipers, defrosters and demisters, of a kind used for cycles or motor vehicles; parts thereof:

Heading 8512 encompasses electrical lighting or signaling equipment specifically designed for use with cycles and motor vehicles. This broad category includes items like headlights, taillights, turn signals, and other visual signaling devices intended for automotive and bicycle applications. Crucially, it excludes articles classified under heading 8539, which deals with electric filament or discharge lamps. Also included are windshield wipers, defrosters, and demisters that serve a similar purpose of enhancing visibility and safety in vehicles.

This heading is distinct from other machinery and electrical equipment by its focus on the specialized application of lighting and signaling within the automotive and cycling industries. Unlike broader electrical component headings, 8512 is driven by the functional use of the equipment on these specific modes of transport. Its position within Section XVI underscores its role as a functional accessory within the broader context of electrical machinery and equipment.

Within heading 8512, further subdivisions provide specific classification for different types of equipment. Subheadings differentiate between lighting or visual signaling equipment for bicycles (8512.10) and other similar equipment not solely for bicycles (8512.20). Sound signaling equipment, such as horns, is classified under 8512.30.00, while windshield wipers, defrosters, and demisters form their own distinct category at 8512.40. Finally, 8512.90 is dedicated to parts of all the foregoing articles, allowing for the separate classification of components used in the repair or manufacture of these items.