Innovative Road Safety Technology Set to Transform Driving in Spain

Beginning January 1, 2026, a significant shift in road safety regulations will take place across the Canary Islands and mainland Spain. All vehicles will be mandated to include the V16 beacon, a crucial component of a comprehensive initiative spearheaded by the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) aimed at improving safety on the roads.

Alongside the V16 beacon, the DGT is set to introduce the V27 beacon, commonly referred to as the “virtual triangle.” This cutting-edge digital signal will start appearing in vehicles from January, serving as an essential supplement to the traditional emergency light systems currently in use.

Exploring the Functionality of the V27 Beacon

The V27 beacon represents a significant advancement in road safety technology, governed by the Royal Decree 159/2021. Its rollout is scheduled for early January 2026, and it functions as a virtual emergency triangle, providing critical visual alerts on the vehicle’s display even before drivers can perceive potential dangers on the road.

Activation of the V27 signal occurs under specific circumstances: either when a nearby vehicle activates a V16 beacon or when the system detects a risk on the roadway. This proactive alert mechanism is designed to inform drivers in advance about hazards they may encounter, allowing them to adjust their driving behavior accordingly.

By receiving these alerts ahead of time, drivers can take necessary precautions and respond effectively to road dangers. This feature is particularly vital given the criticisms surrounding the visibility of the V16 beacon, which can be compromised in bright sunlight, on winding roads, or at varying elevations. The V27 beacon addresses these concerns by offering early digital warnings, enhancing the overall safety of the driving experience.

Seamless Integration with DGT 3.0 Technology

The V27 beacon operates through a voluntary system, which will only be visible in vehicles that are connected via telematics to the National Traffic and Mobility Information Access Point. This connection is facilitated through the DGT 3.0 platform, a technological advancement that is expected to play a pivotal role in accident prevention.

This innovative system will enable drivers to reduce their speed and exercise caution before approaching critical areas, thereby enhancing overall road safety. The V27 beacon exemplifies a vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication system, which is crucial for fostering a safer driving environment.

Understanding the Distinction Between Mandatory and Voluntary Regulations

While the V16 beacon will be a mandatory requirement for all vehicles, the V27 beacon will not share the same obligation. Instead, it will be included in vehicles equipped with advanced connectivity systems that can access the DGT cloud, depending on the specific vehicle model and manufacturer. This distinction highlights the DGT’s commitment to leveraging technology to ensure effective communication between vehicles, ultimately improving safety on the roads.

The DGT’s initiative is part of a broader strategy to modernize road safety measures, utilizing cutting-edge technology to facilitate real-time communication between vehicles. This approach aims to create a more responsive driving environment, where potential hazards can be communicated swiftly and effectively.

Key points

• The V16 beacon will be mandatory in all vehicles in the Canary Islands and Spain starting January 1, 2026.
• The V27 beacon, known as the “virtual triangle,” will also be available from January 2026.
• The V27 beacon acts as a virtual emergency triangle, providing visual alerts before danger is visible.
• This system activates when a nearby vehicle uses a V16 beacon or detects a road risk.
• The V27 beacon will be part of a voluntary system, dependent on vehicle connectivity to the DGT 3.0 platform.
• The DGT aims to enhance road safety through advanced technology and vehicle communication.