Overview
- Fewer than one in five drivers have purchased the connected V16 so far, a Coyote study finds, with price concerns and confusion about valid models cited as main barriers.
- All cars, vans, trucks, buses and most trailers must carry a connected V16 from 1 January 2026, while motorcycles, mopeds and special vehicles such as agricultural or construction machinery are exempt.
- The device uses GPS and an integrated SIM to transmit a stopped vehicle’s location to DGT 3.0, which can trigger warnings on road panels, navigation apps and in-car ‘virtual triangle’ alerts (signal V-27) on newer connected models.
- DGT guidance to verify approval is to confirm the model appears on its website and that the certifying laboratory’s name is visible on the unit, while app-based user linking can offer extra services but is not legally required.
- Retailers warn against very cheap or non-homologated units and report setup hurdles for some buyers, as consumer group FACUA accuses the DGT of enabling widespread sales of non-compliant devices and officials reiterate that the standard fine aligns with triangles at €80 despite some reports of higher amounts.