The V16 beacon that will be mandatory in Spain: how to choose an approved one

There's very little time left until the V16 beacon Connected went from being an optional accessory to an essential element in the car. From January 1, 2026, its use will be mandatory in Spainreplacing traditional triangles as an emergency road signaling system.

The measure comes with doubts, offers from all sides, and a lot of fine print that needs to be understood. Between connectivity, certifications, fines, and privacy, it's easy to get lost, so here's a complete guide with everything relevant published by specialized sources, the industry, and the company itself. DGT.

What exactly is a connected V16 beacon and why will it be mandatory?

The V16 is an emergency light that is placed on the outside of the immobilized vehicle and emits a flash visible in 360º and up to 1 km. Its main difference compared to triangles is that it can be installed without leaving the vehicle.reducing the risk of being run over when an incident needs to be signaled.

The Directorate General of Traffic set the schedule years ago: Since July 2023, its use has been permitted on a voluntary basis on motorways and dual carriageways.And from 2026 it will replace the triangles on all roads. The decision is based on a very specific statistic: between 2019 and 2022, an average of 22 pedestrians died each year after getting out of their cars to signal, a maneuver that can involve walking up to 200 meters on conventional roads. Avoiding that exposure is key.

Spain, in fact, will be the first country where this signal is mandatory and also connected. That "connected" component triggers a notification on the DGT 3.0 platform so that other users receive alerts via roadside panels, compatible vehicle systems, or navigation and mobility apps.

How does the connection with DGT 3.0 work and what happens to privacy?

When the light is activated, the device sends your position to DGT 3.0 through an integrated IoT eSIM. The regulations require that this connectivity be included for at least 12 years And there are no fees for the user. The alert is sent to the cloud so that other drivers can be notified of the incident in real time.

The DGT highlights a sensitive point: The beacon is not linked to the car nor does it allow tracking of movements.The data shared is the location of the incident, and it is done anonymously, limiting itself to managing the danger alert on the road.

Important: The V16 is connected It does not automatically alert emergency services.Unlike the eCall system found in modern cars, if you need a tow truck or roadside assistance, you'll have to call 112 or your insurance company. This distinction is emphasized by clubs like RACE and RACC, which support the measure but are calling for improvements such as a reduced VAT rate, given its importance to road safety. The V16 warning does not replace the call for help..

Who must carry the V16 and who is exempt

The obligation applies to virtually all vehicles in circulation, with two main exceptions: motorcycles and mopeds due to the difficulty of its placement and tractors because they already incorporate their own signage. Apart from these exceptions, it is estimated that some 31 million vehicles should be equipped with it. The scope of the measure is massive..

The sector estimates an average cost per unit of between 30 and 50 euros (in many cases with connectivity included), which projects a potential business of between 930 and 1.500 million euros. This figure explains why so many brands and operators have entered this market..

Technical requirements that a legal V16 must meet

The DGT (Spanish Directorate General of Traffic) maintains an official list of authorized models. If you don't have it handy, just focus on the essentials: Valid homologation and guaranteed connectivityThis is what we absolutely must demand.

• Identifiable homologation with alphanumeric code starting with LCOE or IDIADA, the admitted certification laboratories.
• Mandatory connectivity for at least 12 years via non-removable IoT eSIM and without user fees.
• Light emission visible from 1 km and in 360º, as required by regulations.
• Minimum autonomy 30 minutes; they accept batteries or USB rechargeable batteries and must facilitate replacement.
• Stability on flat surfaces; magnet recommended to place it without leaving the car (through the window).
• Resistance to impacts and inclement weather (IP-rated and drop-resistant design), to withstand real-world road use.

In addition, the manufacturer should specify the validity period of the eSIM and the technological coverage (NB-IoT, LTE-M…), This ensures that the data service is included throughout the entire lifecycle..

Homologation: how to recognize it and why it is key

All valid devices must carry an approval code. Look for the reference that begins with LCOE or IDIADAfollowed by numbers and, sometimes, the product's trade name. Without that identifier, it is not legal.

The official catalog includes hundreds of references certified by both laboratories. It features products with codes and names that cover everything from IoT beacons with geolocation even private label versions for large chains. There are entire product lines from the same manufacturer that are sold under different names, which explains the enormous apparent variety in stores. The same hardware can have several brands..

The listings frequently include product families such as “Beacon Light IoT” and “V16IoT” models, with dozens of different brands and certification dates. References with designations like CH-009, CH-010L, CH-019, CH-020L, and CH-015 are also listed. which gives you clues about each manufacturer's technical platforms.

The market: prices, connectivity and the role of telecoms

The average price is around 50 euros including data, although options below 25 euros are already available thanks to Asian offers. Competition has put downward pressure on prices. And many brands include free connectivity until 2038 in their packages.

The major operators have entered the market strongly: Telefónica, Vodafone and Orange They provide NB-IoT/LTE-M connectivity to numerous manufacturers, integrating eSIMs at the factory. For the user, this translates to a "ready-to-use" V16 for years. No fees or sign-ups, just turn it on and you're good to go..

With over 30 million cars potentially required to display a warning light, the volume is enormous, as is the tax revenue. Industry estimates hundreds of millions of euros in VAT derived from the implementation, a factor that has added controversy to the public debate.

Fines, liabilities and extreme situations

If you are not carrying a V16 beacon or it is not legal, the infraction is minor: €80 fine without pointsIf, in addition, you fail to signal the breakdown or accident and remain an obstacle on the road, the fine increases to 200 euros. Proper signage is mandatory.

There are more serious scenarios. If a failure to provide signage (or doing so negligently) causes an accident, Your insurance company could claim from you the damages paid to third parties.And although lacking a V16 is not a crime, if the lack of signage results in injury or death to another person, you could face charges for recklessness, with penalties of up to four years in prison and loss of your license. It's about safety, not just a rule.

Practical use: how to install it and what else to pack in the car

The safest way is to place it without leaving the vehicle: lower the window, place it on the roof and let the magnet do its job. The main goal is to avoid stepping on the road.Periodically check the battery charge or the condition of the batteries and store it in an accessible place (the glove compartment is a good option, avoiding direct heat).

It is still mandatory to carry [the following in the car] approved reflective vest In case you need to go out, in addition to the required documents (also available in the miDGT app), you'll need your vehicle registration, ITV (MOT) certificate, and environmental sticker. A small first-aid kit, flashlight, mobile phone charger, and some water are also recommended. If you have a puncture repair kit or a spare wheel, even better.

Traveling outside of Spain: are the V16 and the triangles useful?

In most neighboring countries, a connected V16 is not mandatory; they continue to use triangles. If you are going to drive abroad, it is advisable to follow the local regulations. And carry the warning triangles in case they are required. Article 39 of the 1968 Vienna Convention is often invoked to allow a vehicle to comply with the regulations of the country of registration, but in the event of a check or an accident, the sensible thing to do is to comply with the local rules. You'll avoid unpleasant surprises and potential penalties..

Who manufactures and who was certified first

The official listing provides a clear picture of the market: Many models are manufactured by Chinese companies They adapt very quickly and are sold under several brands. Even so, there are relevant Spanish players: Netun Solutions was the first to certify its Help Flash IoT in 2022; other brands such as FlashLED (Turisport), OSRAM, Wottoline (iWottoLight), RSR Global (ONAlight) o Philips They appear with different references and connected versions. The mix between multinationals, SMEs and Asian OEMs is complete.

There are also well-known lines of technology integrators such as LIMBURG TECHNOLOGY LIMITED, with “Beacon Light IoT” platforms approved in numerous variants (CH-009, CH-010L, CH-019, CH-020L, CH-015), often marketed in Spain under different brands. A supply engine that explains the price drop.

Actual specifications and functions: concrete examples

To put the above into perspective, it's helpful to look at the technical specifications. There are devices like these. Light Phase with approximate dimensions of 6,5 x 9 x 9,5 cm (single box), about 195 g without batteries, a range of 1 km in 360º and 2,5 hours of battery life with 4 AAA batteriesThey incorporate connectivity with DGT 3.0 via Telefónica Tech's NB-IoT and IoT SIM valid until 01/01/2038, with shockproof design and IP54 water resistance rating for rain and wind.

In some cases, it is complemented by a verification app. SOS Alertwhich allows anonymous verification that the signal is being transmitted correctly and, through integrations such as TIREA, facilitates coordination with insurance assistance. It doesn't replace your call, but it helps to streamline the process..

You'll also see models on the market like SOOS DGT Approved Emergency Light With SIM card and paid data until 2038, geolocation, and express approval from accredited laboratories. It's the type of device that complies with the new regulations. Connected, certified and with included data service.

How to choose without making a mistake: a quick checklist

Before you buy, check these essential points. You'll avoid returns and roadside scares:

• It must have a homologation code that begins with LCOE or IDIADA, clearly visible on the product or box.
• It should include a minimum IoT connectivity of 12 years (integrated eSIM) without mandatory paid subscriptions or apps.
• It should have 360º visibility at 1 km, a minimum autonomy of 30 minutes and magnetic attachment or a stable system.
• The manufacturer should specify weather resistance (IP) and drop-resistant materials; it's even better if they indicate the connectivity provider.

If you are unsure between several, choose the one that clearly states the validity of its SIM until a specific date (for example, 2038). and keep the invoice with the homologation codeIt will be useful in case of claims.

As a final detail, many stores advertise “Shipping within 48 hours” or fast deliveries, complemented by volume discounts such as “Additional 5% from €100”Also, check if they offer assistance with price differences ("Have you seen a lower price? Let us know"), which is common practice to maintain competitiveness. Commercial terms add up, but legality prevails..

The connected V16 is here to stay: it improves safety by enabling signaling without getting out of the carIt geolocates the incident to alert other drivers and standardizes a single system across Spain. There is room for improvement (more public information, potential tax incentives, coverage in complex areas) and legitimate debate about costs and usefulness in certain scenarios, but the regulatory framework is already in place and the market has responded with a wealth of approved models, including connectivity, and increasingly competitive prices. With an informed purchase and correct installation, you'll save yourself fines and, above all, unnecessary risks..