Drivers will set up new V16 emergency beacons on automobiles close to Spanish roads. It is a extra refinement technique ranging from 2026 below the DGT Security Laws. Credit score: jordi.magrans, shutterstock
For months, Spanish drivers had a V16 beacon deadline on their heads. From January 2026, all drivers might want to have this little gadget of their gloveboxes to maintain them authorized on Spanish roads.
the intention? We’re all groping on our stiff shoulders to exchange these harmful reflective triangles. However in the event you’ve already bought a V16, do not get too comfy. Spanish transport authorities, DGT, gave the brand new, extremely improved beacons a inexperienced gentle.
The most recent mannequin, HelpFlash IoT+, addresses all of the outdated criticisms. So, when you leap over the gun and seize the early model, you might be hoping that you have been ready for quickly. With a uncommon twist, this time the procrastinator is the winner!
What’s new in Assist Flash IoT+?
Let’s begin with imaginative and prescient. Certainly one of my largest complaints concerning the earlier V16 beacons was the disappointing brightness. All the guarantees of “360 diploma visibility” have been superb, however is there any Spanish sunshine? Not that a lot. The brand new assist packs IoT+ with flash+punches and over 200 candelas. That is 186% brighter than its predecessor. Because the legislation requires, it may be clearly seen in rain or glow, for greater than a kilometer, day and evening.
However that is not all. Early fashions tended to blind you when positioned on the roof of a automotive. It is not supreme if you’re already coping with a breakdown. The brand new model will soften the beam within the first few seconds, and counting each second will cut back life’s stress.
Connectivity can be vital. In line with the legislation, beacons should hyperlink to the DGT 3.0 platform. As soon as activated, it routinely shares the precise location with visitors authorities and sends digital alerts to different drivers through SAT navigation and street indicators. A real twenty first century replace of Spanish roads.
However this is the catch. From January 1, 2026, solely related V16s can be authorized. You are mainly not paying something.
Spanish visitors police weight
Among the harshest critics of the unique V16 rollout have been the Transportation Division of Guardia Civil. Their major dissatisfaction? The outdated beacons weren’t shiny sufficient to be seen from secure distances in full daylight and tough climate. The reflex triangle that emitted could have been painful, nevertheless it supplied higher imaginative and prescient, particularly on the winding hills.
There may be additionally concern about battery life. The principles say the V16 ought to final not less than half-hour, however executives level out that it might take for much longer for the breakdown to be resolved. Happily, the brand new assist claims that IoT+ solved this, offering higher battery efficiency and reliability.
So, do it’s essential improve now or wait?
For those who’ve already been fired by a V16 beacon, do not panic. It is authorized even when it is related and DGT permitted. However for these nonetheless buying, the recommendation is evident. Look ahead to assist for PlashIoT+ or one other next-generation mannequin. With shiny lights, smarter connectivity and fewer trouble in emergencies, the brand new requirements are well worth the wait.
The ethical of the story? Depart it to the final minute often is the smartest transfer, not less than with regards to Spain’s ever-evolving street security devices.
Be certain that your emergency package is updated and do not get caught up in new guidelines. For motoring updates, we’ll be staying on dailyview. It is the go-to supply of the whole lot Spanish drivers have to know.
