Urgent: Spain to Fine Drivers Using Older V16 Emergency Beacons – What You Need to Know Now
Madrid, Spain – Spanish drivers are facing a looming deadline and potential fines as the country prepares to fully enforce the use of connected V16 emergency beacons, replacing both traditional warning triangles and older, unconnected beacon models. The change, mandated by the Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT), takes effect on January 1, 2026, and drivers caught using outdated equipment could face an €80 penalty.
The Phase-Out: From Triangles to Connected Beacons
For years, Spanish roads have seen a transition underway. The DGT first began discussing the introduction of luminous beacons as a replacement for the traditional warning triangles back in 2018, officially confirming their arrival the following year. Voluntary use of V16 beacons as a substitute was permitted from July 1, 2021, giving drivers a grace period to adapt. However, that flexibility is rapidly diminishing. While the initial beacons didn’t require connectivity, the rules are changing dramatically.
The key shift comes with the requirement for connected V16 beacons. These beacons, which began appearing on the market in 2022 (with brands like Orange offering early models), transmit location and status information to emergency services, enhancing road safety and response times. Starting in 2026, only these connected beacons will be considered valid.
What Happens to Your Existing Beacon? A Costly Paperweight
This presents a significant problem for drivers who proactively purchased earlier-generation, unconnected V16 beacons. As one driver shared with archyde.com, a beacon bought in anticipation of the change is now essentially useless. “It’s going to be a new light for the garden,” he lamented, highlighting the frustration of investing in equipment that will soon be obsolete.
The DGT is firm on this point: neither triangles nor unconnected V16 beacons will be accepted. Even beacons that are connected but lack official approval will result in the same €80 fine, falling under Article 130 of the General Traffic Regulations for “not properly marking the obstacle created on the road in the event of an accident or vehicle breakdown.” The exception applies only to vehicles registered in other countries and in international circulation.
Can You Upgrade? The Search for a Solution
The question on many drivers’ minds is whether it’s possible to upgrade an existing, unconnected V16 beacon to a connected model. One driver even contacted the DGT directly, hoping for a cost-effective solution to avoid purchasing a new device. As of now, the DGT has not provided a clear answer, raising concerns about the potential for unnecessary waste and financial burden on consumers.
While attempts to repurpose smartphones as beacons are discouraged, the idea of retrofitting existing hardware remains a viable, and potentially environmentally friendly, option. The lack of a definitive response from the DGT suggests this avenue may not be officially supported, but it remains a topic of interest for resourceful drivers.
Staying Ahead of the Curve: A Lesson in Proactive Planning
This situation serves as a reminder that sometimes, waiting for the last minute isn’t the best strategy. While early adopters may have faced a higher initial cost, they’ve avoided the impending expense and inconvenience of a last-minute purchase. For those who haven’t yet upgraded, now is the time to act. Research approved connected V16 beacons and ensure you’re compliant before January 1, 2026, to avoid a costly fine and ensure your safety on Spanish roads.
As road safety technology continues to evolve, staying informed is crucial. archyde.com will continue to provide updates on this developing story and offer expert guidance on navigating the changing landscape of traffic regulations. For more in-depth information on V16 beacons, including recommended models, visit Xataka Mobile’s comprehensive guide and their recommendations for approved models.
