Here’s What the Police Say:

What is the V‑16 emergency light?

As of January 1, 2026, Spanish law will phase out classic warning triangles and make it mandatory for all vehicles with Spanish plates to carry a V‑16 flashing beacon with geolocation capabilities.

These battery‑powered beacon lights:

• Emit 360° yellow/orange flash with visibility up to 1 km, day or night.

• Are magnetically attached—placed from inside the vehicle—for driver safety.

• Transmit real‑time GPS location to the DGT’s 3.0 platform every 100 seconds.

• Comply with technical standards under Royal Decree 159/2021 and must bear homologation codes (e.g., LCOE…G1 or IDIADA PC…)

▪ Why is this change being made?

The DGT’s initiative is rooted in stark statistics: on Spanish highways in 2020, 20 deaths occurred as people placed triangles outside their vehicles — often walking into live traffic.

Compared to triangles (visible only ≈100 m), the V‑16 beacons significantly enhance both physical and virtual visibility, improving road safety and reducing pedestrian risk.

▪ The police critique

Law enforcement bodies have raised concerns that:

1. Mandating a connected device introduces privacy and data protection issues, potentially creating vulnerabilities in geolocation data collection.

2. Not all approved models are easily accessible or clearly labeled, which could complicate compliance.

3. Penalties for non‑compliance (up to €200) risk catching legitimate Spanish vehicle owners unaware—especially since many may still rely on triangles.

These critiques underscore the need for robust legal guidance in acquisition, data handling, and penalties. At SGM Abogados, we emphasise that the success of this new rule hinges on clear implementation and public awareness.

▪ Who must comply—and who is exempt?

• Spanish‑registered vehicles: Required from January 1, 2026.

• Foreign‑registered vehicles: Exempt, provided they carry a reflective triangle, under the Vienna Convention.

• Triangles abroad: If driving outside Spain, retain triangles—V‑16 is only legal in Spain.

▪ What should drivers do now?

1. Purchase an approved V‑16 beacon, checking the DGT’s official list of homologated models.

2. Use it properly: store it in the glovebox, and place it high on the vehicle (roof or top door edge).

3. Beware of fines: starting January 2026, enforcement will begin—ensure you’re ready.

4. Check privacy implications: drivers should verify how their location data is managed and stored.

💡 Key Takeaways from SGM Abogados

At SGM Abogados, we advise: