Spain’s new V16 beacon rule sparks surge in Andorra sales

Spain’s upcoming requirement to use V16 luminous beacons connected to the DGT from January 2026 has already driven demand in Andorra. Several shops report a “very noticeable” increase in sales in recent weeks, mainly to Spanish drivers buying ahead of the rule.

At Fotoclic in Andorra la Vella, manager Albert Segovia said the beacons have been a regular draw for more than a year. “When our supplier warned that this would be required by the Spanish rules, we decided to stock them. When customers see it, they grab it automatically,” he said, adding that “almost always the buyers are Spanish.”

Merchants warn of confusion between approved and unapproved models. Segovia noted that many cheap devices sold online mislead buyers: “We have found quite a bit of confusion because there are many cheap things sold on the internet, and people think ‘this is the one I want’. However, the official one has an IMEI number, a QR code and connectivity with the DGT app.”

Fotoclic sells the homologated FlashLED V16 model, which the shop says has a validity until 2038 and is priced at €39.90. Segovia also questioned the device’s usefulness inside the Principality: “Here in Andorra I don’t think it’s necessary. We don’t have such long roads or big motorways.”

At Raya Electrònics, owner Àngel Raya described the business case as poor: “As a business, it’s an absolute ruin. You buy them for €25 and sell them for €28 or €29.” He said he purchased only one box and does not plan to reorder once stock runs out. Despite the weak margins, Raya defended the safety benefit: “It’s a very good piece. The problem is commercial, but having it in the car is essential. You don’t have to get out to place the triangle and risk your life.”

Fernando García of Wi‑Fi Electrònica said the shop sold about 150 units in two or three weeks. He criticized the sector’s lack of preparation, saying he had been negotiating with suppliers for a month over how many beacons to buy. García warned that December demand could be ten times greater than available stock.

Andorra’s government has not indicated any intention to adopt the Spanish regulation; the beacon is not mandatory for vehicles with Andorran plates. Nevertheless, retailers believe the luminous V16 device may be useful for drivers who frequently travel outside the country.