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Spain’s V‑16 Beacons Near Jan. 1 Mandate as Sales Lag and Officials Counter Myths

Regulators say the device transmits only an anonymous location when switched on.

Overview

  • From January 1, 2026, connected V‑16 warning lights replace emergency triangles under Royal Decrees 159/2021 and 1030/2022.
  • The AEPD and DGT clarify that the units do not track movements or measure speed, are not linked to licence plates, and send no data when off.
  • Activation is manual; reporting describes a first location signal after about 100 seconds with repeats every 100 seconds, plus embedded non‑removable SIMs.
  • Enforcement guidance reported an €80 fine for not carrying the beacon, while the DGT warns of €200 penalties for malfunction or poor maintenance.
  • Adoption remains low in Galicia at roughly 78% without a device as retailers see late demand; typical prices run about €30–70 with 35 homologated makers and over 240 brands, alongside debate over visibility versus triangles.