Spain to Roll Out V27 Virtual Hazard Warning
Spain will introduce an optional V27 "virtual triangle" digital warning system in January 2026, complementing the mandatory V16 emergency beacon by providing early hazard alerts directly to connected vehicles.
From January 1, 2026, all vehicles in the Canary Islands and the rest of Spain will legally need to carry a V16 emergency beacon. But this isn't the only new safety feature the Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) is planning for next year.
They are also getting ready to introduce the V27 beacon, often called the "virtual triangle," which will be available in vehicles starting in January. Unlike the physical V16 light, the V27 is a digital signal meant to work alongside the new emergency beacon.
This smart V27 signal, regulated by Royal Decree 159/2021, will start being rolled out in early January 2026. It works like a virtual emergency triangle, showing a warning directly on your car's screen before you can actually see the danger ahead.
The V27 will turn on when a nearby car uses its V16 beacon or when a hazard is detected on the road. Its main job is to give drivers an early warning about dangers on their route.
This early warning system helps drivers become aware of risks sooner, giving them more time to be careful and react. This is especially useful because the V16's flashing light has faced criticism for its visibility. For example, if the V16's flash is hard to see due to bright sunlight, sharp bends, or hills, the V27 steps in with its advanced digital alerts.
The DGT explains that this optional signal will only appear in vehicles that are connected to the National Access Point for Traffic and Mobility Information, either directly or through a service provider. This connection, often via the DGT 3.0 platform, is how the alerts are sent to the vehicle.
Getting these warnings ahead of time will be crucial for preventing accidents like crashes and people being hit, giving drivers a chance to slow down and be extra careful before reaching the dangerous spot. This system uses V2V, or vehicle-to-vehicle, communication.
The V27 beacon won't be compulsory. Instead, it will be included in vehicles that come with advanced connectivity systems and can access the DGT's cloud services. Whether a car has this feature will depend on its specific model and manufacturer.
The DGT aims to boost technology in vehicles, allowing them to communicate and anticipate issues like breakdowns, accidents, or obstacles on the road. The main goal is to improve vehicle technology and enhance road safety, all without requiring drivers to put themselves in harm's way.