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The countdown has begun: from 2026, traditional luminous safety triangles will be a thing of the past, replaced by the sleek and modern V-16 emergency lights on all vehicles. But what do these new road safety beacons mean for Spanish drivers and how much will they set you back?

 

V-16 lights are designed to be placed on the roof of a vehicle to alert other drivers to a breakdown or other issue. These innovative lights are designed to keep you safe on the road, emitting a 360º beam of light for at least half an hour to alert other drivers to your presence.

 

The Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) insists that they’re much safer than the traditional triangles, as motorists don’t even have to leave their car to put them on.

 

Moreover, V-16s are built to withstand the toughest weather conditions, from freezing cold to scorching heat, and come equipped with a long-lasting battery that guarantees 18 months of operation.

 

But not all V-16 lights are created equal. To meet the strict standards set by the DGT, these lights must be fully approved and compliant with the latest regulations. This includes the ability to connect to the DGT 3.0, a cutting-edge system that enables seamless communication between your vehicle and the emergency services.

 

To simplify matters, the DGT has released its own list of all approved V-16 lights, which you can find here.

So, how much will these high-tech lights set you back? The good news is that approved V-16 lights can be found for around 50 euros, although prices may vary depending on the brand and model.

 

With hundreds of options available on sales platforms, it's essential to do your research and choose a light that meets the DGT's stringent standards.

 

If you haven't already, now is the time to invest in a V-16 light. Not only will you avoid the risk of a hefty fine, but you'll also be ensuring your safety on the road. With the DGT cracking down on non-compliant lights from 2026, it's crucial to choose a model that meets the necessary requirements.

 

 

Image: DGT