Overview
- Spain’s rule replacing roadside warning triangles with V16 electronic beacons on highways has been in force since January 1, 2026.
- When activated, V16 devices transmit a vehicle’s GPS position to a DGT-linked public platform, and the agency says only location data are shared.
- Cybersecurity experts and a Guardia Civil union spokesperson report that criminals and rogue tow operators have used the public data to target motorists, with at least three cases filed by January 16.
- Authorities advise stranded drivers to call emergency services or their insurer for assistance and to decline unsolicited roadside offers of help.
- Foreign-registered vehicles are exempt from the mandate and may continue using triangles, while Spanish rental cars must carry a V16; Spain is reported as the first country to fully switch to the system.