The digitalization of road safety in Spain is progressing with the incorporation of new smart signs. Starting in 2026, the Directorate General of Traffic will begin the progressive rollout of these new signs. V27 signalKnown as virtual triangleThis is a system that complements the beacon. V16 connectedwhich does not replace it and whose implementation will be voluntary.
In this article we explain What is the V27 signal, how does it work, how does it differ from V16, and why are they both compatible? within the connected road safety ecosystem.
What is the V27 signal or virtual triangle?
La V27 is a digital and intelligent traffic signalintegrated into the vehicle itself and visible through the instrument panel or information system of the car. It is not a physical device, but a virtual alert that is activated automatically or manually in case of an incident.
Its operation is linked to the connection of the vehicle with the National Access Point for Traffic and Mobility Information from the General Directorate of Traffic, from where real-time data on accidents, breakdowns, obstacles or road closures is managed.
When a V27 signal is activated:
- The driver receives a visual alert inside the vehicle.
- The information is shared with other connected vehicles within a certain radius.
- Traffic management systems also receive the alert.
How does the V27 signal work?
Although the DGT has not yet published all the final technical details, the V27 signal is based on:
- Cloud communication.
- Carbon-Negative V2V (vehicle to vehicle).
- Distribution of notices through Mobile Network.
The system alerts the driver to upcoming hazards when the incident has been previously reported by another user or by the traffic systems themselves. Similar to the V16 beacon, It is not necessary to leave the vehicle, which significantly improves driver safety.
The DGT has indicated that:
- V27 will begin to be implemented as of January 1, 2026.
- Its use will be voluntary.
- It will only work on connected vehicles to the national platform.
How can you tell if a V16 beacon is approved?
The beacon V16 connected yes it will be mandatory from 1 January 2026Therefore, it is essential to verify that the device complies with current regulations.
A homologated V16 must include one of the following codes:
- LCOE XXXXXXXXXXG1
(issued by the Official Central Electrotechnical Laboratory) - IDEADA PC XXXXXXXX
(issued by Applus IDIADA)
In addition, it must comply with these minimum technical specifications required by the DGT:
- Stability against air currents.
- Horizontal visibility of 360° and minimum vertical of 8 ° ±.
- Luminous intensity between 40 and 80 effective candles, for at least 30 minutes.
- Flash frequency between 0,8 and 2Hz.
- Minimum level of protection IP54K.
- Guaranteed operation between -10 ºC and 50 ºC.
- Mandatory connected geolocation system from 2026.
Differences between the V16 signal and the V27 signal
Although both are part of the new connected signage, V16 and V27 do not perform the same function:
| Feature | Signal V16 | Signal V27 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Physical beacon | Virtual signal |
| Location | Vehicle exterior | Vehicle interior |
| Principal function | Alert about immobilized vehicle | Warning of hazards on the road |
| Activation | Manual | Manual or automatic |
| Mandatory | Mandatory from 2026 | volunteer |
| Connectivity | Geolocation to the cloud DGT | V2V communication and cloud |
Are the V27 signal and the V16 beacon compatible?
Yes. The V27 and V16 are fully compatible and complementary..
- La V16 signals a stopped or broken-down vehicle.
- La V27 Dynamic risk alert: obstacles, slow vehicles, machinery, incidents ahead.
The combination of both technologies allows Improve anticipation, reduce risks and increase driver protectionespecially in an increasingly connected traffic environment.
