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Spain Enforces Connected V16 Emergency Beacon Rule, Replacing Roadside Triangles

Authorities cite crash‑reduction benefits, with the beacon sending location to DGT 3.0 without personal identifiers.

Overview

  • Drivers must use a certified connected V16 to signal an immobilized vehicle from January 1, with a €80 fine for non‑use during an incident.
  • Related safety breaches carry stiffer penalties, including €200 and four points for exiting without a reflective vest.
  • Only homologated connected models count; the DGT updated its certified list and revoked approval for several units, prompting warnings about non‑compliant devices.
  • Exemptions apply to motorcycles and some light or special vehicles, and historic or rental fleets may rotate a single beacon when vehicles are not used simultaneously.
  • Catalonia requested a moratorium that the DGT declined, and authorities indicate early enforcement will focus on use during breakdowns; foreign‑registered cars may follow their home-country rules, and Spanish V16s function abroad without connectivity.