In 2025, Spanish roads are expected to see the introduction of a new monitoring system—so-called ‘black radars’, which are already operating successfully in France. These devices are designed to automatically detect violations in VAO lanes reserved for vehicles with multiple passengers, public transport, and eco-friendly transport.
VAO (Vehículos de Alta Ocupación) lanes are only permitted for certain categories of vehicles. These include cars carrying two or more people, buses, vehicles with environmental badges, and special service vehicles. It’s important to remember: unless an electronic sign specifically allows it, entering this lane may result in a fine.
The main feature of the new radars is their use of artificial intelligence. Thanks to advanced algorithms, the cameras can accurately determine the number of people inside a vehicle. The detection accuracy reaches 95%, making it nearly impossible to avoid punishment for misusing designated lanes.
In France, such systems are already operational in major cities, including Lyon, Rennes, and Strasbourg, as well as on highways connecting Paris with other regions. The primary goal is to improve road capacity and reduce congestion by identifying those who illegally use lanes meant for high-occupancy vehicles.
In Spain, violating the VAO lane regulations carries a fine of 200 euros. However, the driver does not lose any points on their license. By comparison, in France a similar offense costs less — 135 euros. To avoid unpleasant consequences, it’s recommended to check in advance that you have the required number of passengers in the car, and that children are seated in certified child seats that are clearly visible to traffic cameras.
Experts advise: if you’re unsure, it’s best to choose the regular lane. This will help you avoid unnecessary disputes with the traffic police and save time. In the coming months, the use of such technologies is expected to expand to other regions of the country, making compliance checks even stricter.
The introduction of “black radars” with artificial intelligence is part of Spain’s large-scale digitalization of road infrastructure. The new cameras not only record violations, but also help optimize traffic flow, making travel in cities and on highways safer and more efficient.
