Overview
- From January 1, the connected V‑16 beacon is the sole legal roadside signal, replacing warning triangles nationwide.
- The DGT has launched periodic homologation and ITV oversight with a first review one year after approval, alternating documentary and sample tests thereafter up to 12 years, and at least four models have already lost approval.
- ITV stations are verifying that each unit’s connectivity and power are functional, with expired data service or degraded batteries rendering a device non‑compliant.
- The Guardia Civil warns of organized “pirate tow” operations exploiting beacon geolocation to intercept incidents and defraud motorists.
- An unofficial real‑time map displaying activated beacons has appeared using DGT data, raising privacy questions as the AEPD stresses the devices are not tied to individuals, and some municipalities such as El Port de la Selva say they will not sanction for now.