Spain Approves Royal Decree to Digitalize Road Infrastructure and Enhance Connectivity
Spain has approved a new Royal Decree to digitalize its road infrastructure by centralizing traffic data and mandating the use of connected safety technologies to improve emergency response and mobility efficiency.
The Council of Ministers has approved a new Royal Decree, backed by the Ministry of Transport and the DGT, that signals a major shift toward digitalizing Spain’s road infrastructure. By adopting EU Directive 2023/2661, the government aims to improve efficiency and create a connected mobility network where information moves seamlessly between all parties involved.
At the heart of this strategy are "National Access Points." These act as central hubs where both public and private managers can share vital data about the road network. Information regarding accidents, roadworks, and traffic restrictions will now be centralized across three main areas: the DGT’s traffic node, a multimodal transport node, and a dedicated node for secure heavy-vehicle parking. By making it mandatory to report road changes electronically, the system aims to provide drivers with near-instant alerts, significantly reducing response times during emergencies.
This regulation also provides a legal framework for the technology the DGT has been rolling out. Tools like the DGT 3.0 platform, V16 emergency lights, connected cones, and smart tow trucks are moving from pilot programs to standard road safety equipment. Experts believe that the ability of these devices to transmit real-time data about hazards is a crucial step toward automated traffic management.
The decree also includes important protections for citizens. All data processing must comply with strict privacy laws, and the government has emphasized that this digital transition must be accessible to everyone. The goal is to ensure that technology serves as a tool for all, including people with disabilities and those less comfortable with digital systems, rather than creating new barriers.
With this move, Spain is aligning itself with the European Union’s goal of creating a unified, intelligent mobility space. By prioritizing connectivity and shared data, the initiative aims to reduce accidents and optimize resources, making information the most valuable tool for modern road safety.