The regulations of the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) have initiated a significant transformation in road emergency signage. As of January 1, 2026, warning triangles will no longer be permitted and will be replaced by the V16 beacon connectedWhy this change? What are the key differences between the two devices?
What is an emergency triangle?
For decades, emergency triangles have been the mandatory system for warning other drivers in the event of a breakdown or accident. They consist of a reflective structure that must be placed on the roadway, at a minimum distance of 50 meters from the vehicle (or 100 meters on expressways).
To place them correctly, the driver must get out of the vehicle and walking on the shoulder, which involves a high risk, especially in conditions of low visibility or heavy traffic.
What is a connected V16 beacon?
An V16 beacon connected It's a luminous device that sits on the roof of a vehicle without having to leave it. It's activated by pressing a button and emits high-intensity flashes visible in 360°. But its added value lies in its connectivity: the beacon automatically sends the vehicle's location to the DGT through technology NB-IoT or similar.
This allows traffic systems and other drivers to know the location of the stopped vehicle in real time and take preventive measures.
Key differences between triangle and connected V16 beacon
| Feature | emergency triangle | V16 connected beacon |
|---|---|---|
| Placement | Requires exiting the vehicle | It is placed from the inside |
| Visibility | Limited and dependent on conditions | 360º and high light intensity |
| Driver safety | Risk of being run over | Total security by not getting out of the car |
| Connectivity | Does not have | Automatic geolocation to the DGT |
| Regulation | Allowed until 31/12/2025 | Mandatory from 1/1/2026 |
Advantages of the connected V16 beacon
- Greater personal security: is activated without leaving the vehicle.
- Location in real time: transmits the position instantly.
- Compatibility with DGT 3.0: improves incident management.
- Easy use and high autonomy: Ready in seconds, with long-lasting battery.
Hero Driver LED: Connected technology to save lives
La V16 connected Hero Driver LED beacon It combines visibility, resilience, and IoT technology. Approved by UCA and connected via Vodafone's NB-IoT network, it includes fee-free connectivity until 2040Its compact and robust design is designed for real emergencies, in all types of conditions.
With Hero Driver LED, you can signal safely and comply with tomorrow's traffic regulations today.
Links of interest
For more information on the V16 Hero Driver LED beacon, please visit the following official links:
