The eCall system serves as a 'hidden guardian' embedded in vehicles. By creating a closed loop of 'accident detection-automatic emergency call-precise rescue', it transforms the traditional passive alarm system into an active response mechanism, providing crucial technical safeguards for road traffic safety.
1. What is eCall? —— The vehicle's built-in "first responder" during an accident
eCall is an intelligent emergency system embedded in vehicles. It automatically or manually triggers emergency calls during accidents like collisions, sending minimal data sets (MSD) including vehicle location and model information to public safety answer points (PSAP) via wireless networks, while simultaneously establishing voice channels.
eCall is not just a feature, but a responsibility:
The data show that eCall systems can reduce emergency response time in suburban areas by about 50 percent, improve urban environments by about 40 percent, and reduce deaths by about 2,500 per year.
2、How does the eCall system work? —— A life-saving network woven by technology
The eCall system achieves precise positioning through Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS, including GPS, GLONASS, and GALILEO) and Satellite-Based Augmentation Systems (SBAS, such as EGNOS). Leveraging communication technologies like GSM and UMTS, it transmits basic vehicle data (MSD) and voice information to Public Safety Answer Points (PSAPs) via base stations through the In-Vehicle System (IVS) when an accident occurs. Additionally, users in Europe can call 112 for free to access 24/7 services including police, emergency medical, and fire departments, enabling rapid rescue operations. This system is primarily designed for emergency response scenarios following road vehicle accidents.
3、Global eCall certification trends
Since the Eurasian Economic Union launched its eCall system in 2015, the European Union, Japan, the UAE and other countries have implemented eCall certification at different times. Overall, eCall technology has gradually expanded globally, covering more and more countries and regions.
4、EU eCall certification
(1) Introduction
On April 29,2015, the European Union enacted a regulation mandating that all newly approved M1 and N1 category vehicles must be equipped with the eCall system as of March 31,2018. Subsequent guidelines were issued to facilitate implementation. This certification system applies to the vast majority of new vehicle models, with exemptions granted for specific cases such as small batches, single-vehicle units, and armored vehicles.
（2）EU eCall certification requirements and types
(3) Three authentication methods for EU eCall
Full vehicle eCall certification: covers all attachment requirements and applies to complete vehicle models.
Independent Technology Unit (STU) certification: For portable software and hardware systems.
eCall component authentication: for control modules, antennas, and other critical components.
(4) EU eCall certification testing system
During the testing phase, we utilized an advanced testing system that integrated navigation satellite simulators, communication base station simulators, and public response point simulators. This comprehensive verification process ensured the vehicle-mounted eCall system met all EU regulatory requirements.
5. Certification Process
(1) EU eCall certification process
mainly include ：
1. The manufacturer submits the application and prepares the technical data;
2. Send samples to qualified laboratories for testing;
3. Technical service agencies shall witness and audit on site;
4. After passing the examination, the certification body will issue the certification certificate.
(2) UAE eCall Certification
Period: about 3 months
Core process:
1. Pre-test + CE RED Report
2. Register on TDRA's official website
3. Conformance Testing (ETSI TS 103 412)
4. Police Station Real Network Test
5. Issuance of certificates
6. Common eCall Test Issues and Technical Support
During eCall testing, we frequently encounter the following typical issues, and we provide targeted coaching and corrective support for each one.
lMSD data content is inaccurate or transmission failed.
lVoice calls cannot be established in both directions.
lPSAP callback is unresponsive, call is interrupted or continuously busy.
lNetwork rollback issues (e.g., IMS eCall returning to 2G/3G);
lThe standby power supply does not meet the requirements;
lRegistration is not available in live network environments.
7. Zhongle certification advantages
lEnd-to-end service: from pre-testing, rectification guidance, formal certification to certificate maintenance, one-to-one technical support throughout the process.
lEfficient and reliable: Familiar with the practical path of various countries, significantly shorten the certification cycle, reduce the risk of repeated testing;
lExtensive practical experience: Successfully assisted multiple automotive manufacturers and parts suppliers in obtaining eCall certifications from the European Union, UAE, and other regions.
Contact us to get your exclusive eCall certification solution!
Tel: 13417442373(Wechat)
E-mail: finny.zhou@zhongletest.com
Teams:nancy.le@zhongletest.com
