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Spain Sets 2026 Switch to Connected V‑16 Emergency Beacons, With a Virtual V27 Warning Layer

To offset blind‑spot scenarios raised by rescuers, the DGT plans V27 alerts that pop up in connected cars.

Vista general de un supermercado Aldi y, en el recuadro, su baliza V16.
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El bombero muestra una baliza de emergencias en su vídeo grabando durante su asistencia por un accidente en carretera

Overview

  • From January 1, 2026, most vehicles in Spain must carry a geolocating V‑16 light instead of warning triangles, with motorcycles and certain special vehicles exempt.
  • When activated, the V‑16 sends the vehicle’s coordinates to the DGT 3.0 platform, and standard units do not automatically summon tow services, insurers or the 112 line.
  • Privacy concerns are addressed by activation‑only signaling, with manufacturers such as OSRAM noting a 100‑second delay to filter out accidental activations and no linkage to personal data.
  • The optional V27 ‘virtual triangle’ distributes incident alerts to approaching connected vehicles through in‑car displays via DGT 3.0.
  • Retail rollout is underway—Aldi is selling a DGT‑certified beacon for €37.99 with connectivity assured through 2038—yet promoters concede production limits mean many cars will lack a unit by the start date.