The cost of EU Next Generation (NG) eCall certification varies significantly depending on product type, technical complexity, and test pathway. This 2025 guide summarizes all essential cost components, influencing factors, and strategies to help manufacturers and suppliers optimize budget planning and ensure smooth certification.
The total cost of NG eCall certification consists mainly of testing fees, certification service fees, and additional costs. Below is a breakdown of estimated costs for different product types:
| Cost Category | Comm Module / Aftermarket Device | Whole Vehicle / System | Notes & Latest Dynamics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Functional Testing | $270 – $1,350 USD | $15,000 – $30,000 USD | Validates auto/manual trigger, MSD V3 data accuracy. |
| Performance Testing | $675 – $1,600 USD | +€1,350 – €2,700 EUR (GNSS test) | Ensures positioning ≤3m dynamic error, call setup ≤10s. |
| Environmental & Reliability Testing | $800 – $2,000 USD | €13,500 – €34,000 EUR (EMC test) | Includes temperature (-40°C~85°C), vibration, humidity, and EMC. |
| Network Compatibility Test | — | €2,700 – €5,400 EUR | 4G/5G interoperability with EU operators — critical for NG eCall. |
| Crash Testing Fee | — | $27,000 – $68,000 USD / test | Required for full vehicle validation; includes vehicle destruction. |
| Certificate Issuance Fee | $4,000 – $11,000 USD | $4,000 – $11,000 USD | Charged by EU Technical Service (Notified Body). |
| Doc Review & Modification Fee | 20%–30% of total test cost | 20%–30% of total test cost | For translation, technical corrections, or design changes. |
| Prototype & Accessories | $2,700 – $6,800 USD | $2,700 – $6,800 USD | Prepare 3–6 fully functional prototypes with antennas, harnesses. |
| Estimated Total Cost | $1,900 – $4,500 USD | $34,000 – $81,000 USD | Whole vehicle includes crash tests & NG eCall system upgrades. |
Several technical evolutions in NG eCall significantly impact total certification costs.
Transition from 2G/3G (CS eCall) to 4G/5G IMS eCall increases protocol complexity and test items.
Adds network compatibility and IMS signaling verification, raising total cost by approximately 30% compared to legacy eCall.
Enhanced data (from 140-byte MSD to rich sensor/video payload) demands higher system stability and processing capability.
NG eCall mandates ≤3 meters dynamic positioning error, compared to ~150m in legacy systems.
This may require fused GNSS + IMU technologies, leading to extra €1,350–€2,700 for GNSS verification in full-vehicle tests.
Proactive planning helps reduce cost duplication and testing delays.
Jan 1, 2026: All new vehicle type approvals must support NG eCall.
Jan 1, 2027: Legacy 2G/3G eCall certificates expire.
Plan certification early to avoid re-certification costs due to expired regulations.
Partner with an authorized test lab (e.g., BLUEASIA) that supports both module and system testing to consolidate phases and reduce handling costs.
Combine multiple test items (e.g., EMC + performance) in one project to save logistics and documentation fees.
Avoid overbuilding — provide only 2–3 fully functional samples matching production intent.
Ensure firmware stability before testing to reduce retest risks.
Budget planning for NG eCall should also account for long-term compliance expenses and potential penalties.
Certificates are valid for 3 years.
Manufacturers must submit annual compliance reports and possibly pay periodic fees to maintain validity.
Selling uncertified or non-compliant systems in the EU can lead to:
Customs seizure or recall
Market access bans
Fines up to $150,000 USD per violation
Early engagement with compliance experts minimizes legal and financial exposure.
✅ NG eCall certification costs scale with system complexity and testing scope.
✅ Planning ahead for the 2026–2027 regulatory transition is essential to avoid duplicate certification.
✅ Partnering with an experienced lab helps control both time and cost efficiently.
For expert support in EU eCall, EMC, and automotive wireless compliance, contact our team for tailored consultation and quotation.
Tel: 13534225140
Email: king.guo@cblueasia.com
Website: www.blueasialabs.com
Q1: Can NG eCall certification be combined with other EU automotive tests?
✅ Yes, tests like EMC, RF, or GNSS can be integrated under one project to reduce total cost.
Q2: How can small suppliers reduce cost?
Use module-level certification instead of full system testing when possible.
Q3: Is there a cost difference between 4G and 5G-based eCall systems?
Yes, 5G NG eCall involves more complex IMS and QoS validation, usually adding 15–20% more cost.
Related News
