20 key questions and answers about the new mandatory device from January 1, 2026
La V16 beacon connected will the only legal means of signaling vehicles immobilized on the road from January 1, 2026From that moment on, all drivers must carry one of these approved beacons so they can be used in the event of an accident or breakdown.
En Ryme Automotive We want to resolve the main doubts about the regulations and use of this new emergency device, which definitively replaces the pre-signaling triangles. Below, we present the 20 essential questions and answers that every driver should know:
1. Why are the triangles replaced by the connected V16 beacon?
Triangles were introduced in 1999 and required drivers to exit the vehicle to place them at a certain distance, exposing them to a high risk. The V16 beacon eliminates this danger, as it can be activated without leaving the vehicle. Furthermore, its connectivity allows real-time alerts to traffic systems and other drivers.
2. What is the difference between a V16 and a connected V16?
Both emit flashing light to signal an incident, but the V16 connected incorporates geolocation and sends the vehicle's position to the platform DGT 3.0, which distributes the warning to browsers, information panels, and applications such as Google Maps or Waze.
3. Are all connected V16 beacons valid?
No. Only the certified by accredited laboratories (such as LCOE or IDIADA) and must appear registered in the official website of the DGT to be valid. The certification code must appear on the device's tulip.
4. Will I still be able to use the triangles or an unconnected V16?
No. Since the January 1, 2026 Only the following will be valid: V16 beacons connected. Triangles and unconnected lights will no longer be legal.
5. I already have a beacon connected, what should I do?
You must always carry it in the vehicle and check its condition periodically. The beacons must guarantee a minimum autonomy of 18 months in standby.
6. Does it require maintenance?
Yes. It is recommended. Check the charge or replace the batteries once a year, even if it has not been used.
7. Where is the beacon placed?
It should be placed on the highest part of the vehicle, preferably on the roof. If this isn't possible, it can be attached to the door using the built-in magnet. It can be activated without having to leave the vehicle.
8. How far is it visible?
The flashing light is visible up to 1 kilometer under favorable conditions. In addition, thanks to its connectivity, the warning is displayed on the navigation systems of other vehicles.
9. Does it work in bad weather or on curves?
Yes, although visual visibility may be reduced, the digital connection ensures that other drivers are aware of the incident in advance.
10. Do I need a mobile phone or a subscription?
No. The beacon has a GPS chip and an integrated SIM card. The Connectivity is included in the price and has a minimum duration of 12 years (15 in the case of Hero Driver LED).
11. Does the beacon contact emergency services?
No. It only transmits the vehicle position, without personal details. The emergency call must be made by the driver.
12. Does it work inside tunnels or without coverage?
Yes. Connected beacons use specialized NB-IoT networks, which work even without conventional coverage, sending data as soon as the connection is reestablished.
13. Should I stay inside the vehicle in case of a breakdown?
Only if it is unsafe to leave. The General Driver's Regulations state that the vehicle must be abandoned. on the opposite side of traffic, as long as there is a safe place.
14. How long does the battery last?
Must guarantee at least 30 minutes of continuous operation after activation. After use, it is recommended to replace it with a new one.
15. Which vehicles are required to carry it?
Passenger cars, mixed vehicles, trucks, vans and buses.
16. And motorcycles?
They are not required, although its use is recommended due to the visibility and safety advantages it provides.
17. Can the DGT track my location?
No. The beacon It only transmits the position during its activation, without associating it with a driver or license plate. No personal or vehicle data is sent.
18. Is it necessary to have one per vehicle?
No. You can use the same beacon on multiple vehicles, as long as you carry it in whatever you are driving.
19. Should I include it if I sell the car?
Not necessarily. The obligation to have a V16 falls on the new owner vehicle.
20. Is the beacon valid outside of Spain?
Yes. Vehicles registered in Spain can use it in any country adhering to the 1968 Vienna Convention:
La Vienna Convention on Road Traffic of 1968, promoted by the United Nations, has been ratified by more than 80 countries worldwide. These include: Germany, Austria, Belgium, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Sweden and Switzerland, as well as other non-EU European countries such as Norway, Iceland, Ukraine and Russia.
Outside Europe they are also part Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Cuba, Ecuador, Paraguay, Uruguay, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Philippines, South Korea, Thailand, Iran, Pakistan, South Africa, Ivory Coast, Morocco, Tunisia and Turkey, among others.
Botton line
From 2026, the V16 beacon connected will mandatory and will completely replace the triangles. This device provides greater security, connectivity and speed of notification in emergencies, without having to leave the vehicle.
Discover the Hero Driver LED V16 Connected, certified by the DGT, with NB-IoT connectivity included until 2040.
More information in www.herodriver.es
