V16 beacons

The current DGT magazine has an article with Qs & As about the beacons, which hopefully will clear up any misunderstandings people have about them. I've just used DeepL for translation:

The connected V16 beacon will be the only legal means of signalling vehicles stopped on the road from January 1, 2026. From that date, all drivers will be required to carry one of these devices while driving so they can use it in case of emergency.

1. Why are warning triangles being replaced by the V16 connected device?

Warning triangles were introduced in 1999 and represented a step forward in road safety, as they alerted other drivers to the presence of an immobilized vehicle. However, studies conducted on pedestrian fatalities on interurban roads over the last two decades warn of the danger of getting out of the vehicle to retrieve the triangles from the trunk and walking along the road. Consider that placing them at the appropriate distance and returning to the vehicle means walking 100 meters in a highly vulnerable situation. Since 2023, a transition has been underway in which triangles and V16 beacons coexist as accepted signalling devices. Since July 1, 2023, triangles are no longer mandatory on highways and expressways, although they are still mandatory on conventional roads. This transition will end on January 1, when the connected V16 will be the only device allowed.

2. Why is it called connected V16?

Since the incorporation of the V16 light as a legal hazard warning device on January 1, 2021, two types of beacons coexist: V16 and connected V16. Although both must meet certain design and visibility requirements, the connected V16 offers, as its name suggests, connectivity. In other words, when activated, it sends its geolocation to the DGT 3.0 platform, a kind of ‘switchboard’ that collects information transmitted by all connected traffic actors.

DGT 3.0 is also a major source of data used by DGT information services (Traffic Management Centers) and external services (digital operators). Both collect the geolocation of the immobilized vehicle and disseminate it through their channels (variable message signs, navigators, apps, etc.). Royal Decree 159/2021 stipulates, as we have pointed out, that the connected V16 will be the only legal signalling device as of January 1, 2026.

3. Are all connected V16s sold legal?

No. From January 1, only connected V16s from brands and models that have passed the certification process and comply with the General Vehicle Regulations (RGV) will be valid. These can be consulted on the DGT website (https://www.dgt.es/muevete-con-seguridad/tecnologia-e-innovacion-en-carretera/Dispositivos-de-presenalizacion-V16/). The cover of each device bears a mark consisting of the name of the testing laboratory, followed by the test report number.

4. Will I still be able to use triangles or an unconnected V16 beacon?

No. Neither triangles nor unconnected V16s will be valid in Spain as a means of signaling immobilized vehicles as of January 1. There is one exception: vehicles that are registered in other countries and are in international traffic.

5. I already have a V16 beacon connected. What should I do with it?

The main thing is to always keep it in the glove compartment of your vehicle (you may need it at any time). It is also very important to make sure that the beacon is charged, either with batteries or rechargeable batteries, depending on the model purchased. It should be noted that, as indicated in the regulations, connected V16s must have a minimum battery life of 18 months when not in use. In other words, under normal circumstances, if we have not had to use it, it should be fully operational for 18 months.

6. So, is keeping it in the glove compartment for 18 months sufficient?

Not necessarily. The maintenance of the V16 depends on many factors. To ensure the device's effectiveness, it is essential to check its condition regularly. If it runs on ordinary batteries, it is recommended to replace them every year. If it is powered by a rechargeable battery, it is advisable to fully charge it at least once a year.

7. Where should the beacon be placed?

As a general rule, on the highest part of the vehicle (on the roof, if possible), ensuring maximum visibility. The specifications require that the beacon be able to remain stable on a flat surface; however, if due to the height of the roof (heavy vehicles, buses, etc.) or any other reason it is not possible to access or place it on the roof of the vehicle, the V16 device must be equipped with a magnet so that it can be placed on the driver's door. One of the advantages of the device is that it can be activated without leaving the vehicle.

8. Is the V16 clearly visible when connected?

This device is visible in two ways. As a light, it emits a high-intensity beam that makes it visible from 1 kilometer away in favorable conditions. And thanks to its connectivity, it provides “virtual visibility”: other vehicles will receive information about the accident or breakdown via their navigation systems, mobility apps, or on-board computers. In addition, variable message signs on the roads near the incident will report the situation.

9. And on a curve? In bad weather?

Under certain conditions, high-intensity light is less visible. For example, on a sharp curve or a change in grade, or on a day with thick fog. However, compared to triangles, the V16 offers two major advantages. You don't have to get out of the vehicle to set it up (driving on the road in the situations described above is putting your life at risk). Secondly, thanks to its connectivity, other drivers will know, from miles away, that there is an incident at that point.

10. Do I need a cell phone to connect?

No. We just have to turn on the beacon and place it outside. The connected V16 includes a GPS chip and a non-removable SIM card inside that handle the connection. There is also no need to register the beacon or pay fees to an operator. The price of the beacon includes connectivity for a minimum period of 12 years. However, it is important to note the expiration date of this connectivity, which is printed on the packaging and on the device.

11. Does the V16 beacon also connect to emergency services?

No. The V16 light only transmits the exact position of the immobilized vehicle; it does not send any personal or vehicle information. Nor does it function as a warning system for emergency services; this task falls to the vehicle occupants, as far as possible.

12. If I break down in a tunnel, does the V16 also transmit my location?

The V16 works even without conventional coverage thanks to its connection via specialized networks. And even if these networks are unavailable, it will continue to function as a visual signal and store data to send when the connection is restored.

13. In an emergency, should I stay in the vehicle?

According to the General Drivers' Regulations, "in the event of an accident or breakdown, as a general rule, if the vehicle is immobilized and cannot be restarted, the occupants must leave the vehicle, provided that there is a safe place outside the traffic lane, and in any case, they must exit the vehicle on the side opposite to the flow of traffic without walking or standing on the lanes or shoulders that make up said lane. If traffic conditions do not allow the occupants to leave the vehicle safely, they must remain in the passenger compartment with their seat belts fastened."

14. How long does the V16 battery last?

The devices must guarantee a minimum of 30 minutes of continuous operation after activation. It is therefore important to fully recharge the device after use so that it has full battery life for the next use.

15. Are all vehicles required to carry a beacon?

According to the General Vehicle Regulations, passenger cars, mixed-use vehicles, vehicles intended for the transport of goods, and buses are required to carry one.

16. Isn't it mandatory on a motorcycle?

No. But it is recommended because of the advantages it offers. We can place the beacon on the gas tank; on the seat or trunk; or on the mirror bar.

17. With the new V16, will drivers be more closely monitored?

No, with the V16 connected, no vehicle is permanently geolocated. They will not be able to track you or know how fast you are travelling. The beacon only transmits your position when activated, but does not send personal or vehicle data.

18. I have several vehicles. Is it mandatory to carry the beacon in each one?

No, the V16 is not linked to a specific vehicle or driver. Therefore, it is not necessary to have a beacon in each vehicle, although it is mandatory to carry one when driving any of them.

19. If I sell my vehicle, do I have to include the V16?

Not necessarily. The owner of the vehicle is responsible for providing the V16, so when it is transferred, the obligation falls to the new owner. The same applies when we purchase a new vehicle (the dealer is not obliged to provide it) or in a leasing agreement (the lessee is responsible).

20. Is the beacon valid outside Spain?

Yes. According to the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, vehicles in international traffic must comply with the provisions of the country in which they are registered. Therefore, any vehicle registered in Spain that is driven in another country that is a signatory to the Convention may legally use the connected V16.