Warning beacons for cars

[Wicksey]

I have just read this article about the mandatory warning beacons for cars that comes into force 1 January 2026.
https://www.surinenglish.com/spain/mand ... 53-nt.html
It seems that they have a strict criteria and there are a number of approved models (so a cheapie one from the Chinese bazaar won't do). I've had a look on Amazon and they are fairly expensive (especially as we will need two), but they seem to need to connect to your phone? Not sure how this will work in those areas without a mobile signal and also for anyone without a suitable mobile that can connect to it. We don't have data on our phones but I've seen some that connect via an app so possibly not much use. I always find it a bit annoying that so many things presume everyone not only has a Smart phone but has data on it all the time too. Glad I don't go to the UK as so many carparks seems to want you to pay via an app these days!

[El Cid]

No, you don't need a mobile phone. The beacon contains an e-sim which lasts for 12 years. Considering that, the price is very reasonable. It can connect to an app on your phone (entirely optional) which sends data to your insurer and recovery contact. Details at https://incidenceapp.com/
Buy one (or two) and throw the triangles in the bin - you don't have to wait until 2026.

Cellular coverage on the road in Spain is pretty good, but satellite technology will soon be incorporated to provide total coverage. My phone can already make emergency satellite calls if it is out of coverage.

Sid

[Wicksey]

Thanks for that information. We have a very poor/non existent mobile signal where we live so I presumed there are areas without good coverage. We have used the phone to call the bomberos and ambulance out here, so as you say, it must pick up something for emergency calls.

[markwilding]

I actually have a sort of panic button in my car with a direct line to some sort of emergency service. When I first bought the car I pressed it thinking it was a catch to open something which was on my previous version of the car. I got through to someone who asked me what my issue was.

So when i read this, I thought it was the same but it turns out that I will need to buy a beacon sometime this year. I have looked at prices and the cost seems to be 25 - 50 euros depending which version. I also came across this which might or might not be of help but at least will give an idea of what is available.
https://reviews.ecodelconsumidor.es/pro ... jhEALw_wcB

[Wicksey]

That's a useful comparison site, Mark. I have found them to be around 50€ each. Perhaps we'll buy one and just take it when we go out as it's rare for us to be out in both cars at once!

I wonder if hire cars will have one in? They could get stolen unless they are checked each time the car is returned.

[El Cid]

Since they all have to be DGT approved and have the same specifications, the prices will all be about the same and €50 is about right. When I was choosing one, size was more important as they have to be stored in the car, not the boot like the triangles, as you are not advised to get out of the car. All you do is to open a window and put it on the roof, where it is located by magnets.

Hire cars will have to have them. If you steal one, it will be noticed when the car is checked and no doubt you would get a very large charge against your card (probably much more than €50!).

Sid