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Spain Confirms Jan. 1 Switch to Connected V‑16 Beacons, With DGT Vowing Initial Flexibility

Officials urge purchases of certified units due to reports of look‑alike devices lacking approval.

Overview

  • From January 1, 2026, most cars and light goods vehicles must carry a SIM‑enabled V‑16 that transmits location to the DGT 3.0 platform and it does not automatically alert emergency services.
  • DGT chief Pere Navarro says there will be no postponement of the mandate, and traffic agents will initially focus on informing drivers rather than issuing fines.
  • Consumer group FACUA warns of rising sales of non‑homologated lights, some boxed with DGT markings, and advises checking the official list of roughly 200 certified models.
  • Approved beacons display permanent identifiers starting with LCOE or IDIADA or a unique IMEI, must be visible at about 1 km for at least 30 minutes, and typically cost around €40–€50.
  • Penalties include about €80 for not carrying a V‑16 and around €200 for failing to signal a stopped vehicle correctly, while motorcycles remain exempt.