V16 Emergency Light to replace Warning Triangle in Spain

Adios old fashioned analog warning triangle! In Spain it is being phased out and replaced by a high tech beacon. The new V16 emergency light beacons will become mandatory as of January 1, 2026 but are already available for purchase.

The new beacons have a magnetic base that cling onto the roof of your car and the flashing orange light can be seen up to one kilometer away. This modern beacon also includes geolocation and some can even be connected to your phone via bluetooth which can request roadside assistance when activated. The beacons send out a signal to the DGT cloud every 100 seconds letting helpers know exactly where you are located. This also allows operators to adjust the dynamic road signs to warn other drivers of your situation to avoid any further accidents.

DGT approved V16 emergency light beacons must fullfill the following requirements:
– Be water resistant
– Be visible for at least one kilometer
– 360 viewing range (or visible from all sides)
– be IP54 certified

The V16 emergency light beacon is being implemented to protect drivers that are stuck on the side of the road and require assistance. In recent years the number of people involved in fatal accidents when placing or collecting the warning triangles has risen which called for a new system that doesn’t involve leaving your vehicle. As a general rule you should never leave your vehicle when stuck on the side of a motorway unless there is a safe place off of the road where you can go. If you cannot leave your vehicle safely then stay put with your seatbelt fastened until assistance arrives.

For more information visit the DGT Website