Can V16 lights explode inside the car?

In less than three months, many drivers on Spanish roads will be required to carry a V16 warning light connected to the DGT 3.0 platform among their vehicle's safety features. This warning light typically includes a battery as a power source, which has raised concerns among the automotive community .

Cars can be exposed to extremely high temperatures when they spend many hours in the sun , and the V16 must always be kept indoors. Therefore, there may be uncertainty about the possibility of it exploding due to overheating , but the DGT has prepared for these situations.

Are V-16 batteries dangerous?

Every battery carries a risk of explosion , which is usually small, however, the DGT has ensured that the probability of this occurring with approved V-16 beacons is minimal .

One of the requirements these devices must meet to pass the "test" the DGT subjects the different authorized models to is to withstand temperatures of up to -10 degrees Celsius minimum and 50 degrees Celsius maximum . Therefore, under normal circumstances, the V16 light batteries should not overheat while in the vehicle's glove compartment.

The danger could increase if the driver decides to place the V-16 light in places where it is not recommended: on the dashboard, passenger seat, or rear seats . In these areas, exposure to high temperatures is greater, even reaching well over 50 degrees Celsius , increasing the danger of the battery, which must always be a rechargeable lithium battery or powered by AA batteries .

What other requirements must these lights meet?

On the one hand, the V-16's geolocation connectivity to DGT 3.0 must be at least 12 years old , and the cost of this feature must be included in the retail price. On the other hand, when the light is activated in an emergency, it must be visible in all directions within a 1-kilometer radius for a minimum duration of 30 minutes.

What will be the fine for not having a V-16 light on your car?

According to the DGT (Directorate-General for Traffic), the fine for not displaying a V-16 warning light will be equivalent to driving without warning triangles , with a fine of up to 80 euros. Therefore, starting in 2026, if a driver stops on the hard shoulder after breaking down and fails to activate the V-16 warning light, the Civil Guard may issue this fine .