EU Next Generation (NG) eCall Certification: Process & Timeline (2025)

2025-10-27

The EU Next Generation (NG) eCall certification process has evolved significantly with new technical and regulatory requirements. Below is a detailed, SEO-optimized breakdown to help manufacturers understand the step-by-step process, key timelines, and practical strategies for efficient compliance.



1️⃣ NG eCall Certification Process — Step by Step

1. Preparation Phase (Approx. 1–2 Weeks)

  • Select Certification Body:
    Choose a recognized EU Technical Service (e.g., Germany’s KBA, Luxembourg’s SNCH).
    Non-EU manufacturers must appoint an EU Authorized Representative (EC-REP) as their legal entity.

  • Document Preparation:
    Compile all required technical documentation:

    • System architecture diagrams

    • Circuit design and logic overview

    • MSD (Minimum Set of Data) logic (using V3 per (EU) 2024/1180)

    • English user manual (including privacy clauses and eCall labeling)

    • Detailed test plan

  • Prototype Preparation:
    Provide 2–3 fully functional final product samples for testing.


2. Laboratory Testing (Approx. 3–6 Weeks – Core Phase)

This stage represents the most time-consuming and technically intensive part of the process.

  • Functional & Performance Testing:
    Validates auto/manual trigger mechanisms and MSD data accuracy.
    NG eCall performance requirements include:

    • Positioning accuracy ≤ 3 meters (dynamic)

    • Call setup time ≤ 10 seconds

  • Environmental & Reliability Testing:
    Conducted per ISO 16750 to ensure durability under extreme conditions:

    • Temperature cycling: -40°C to +85°C

    • Vibration & damp heat resistance

  • EMC & Power Failure Reliability Testing:
    Verifies that the backup battery maintains system operation for ≥10 minutes after vehicle power loss.

  • Cybersecurity & Privacy Assessment:
    Evaluates compliance with GDPR and other EU data protection standards.


3. Field Operational Test (Approx. 1–2 Weeks)

After laboratory approval, on-road testing validates:

  • Real-world call functionality

  • Network handover stability

  • Positioning and GPS accuracy under live network conditions


4. Review & Certification (Approx. 2–3 Weeks)

The Technical Service reviews all test reports and supporting documents.
Once approved, the NG eCall Certificate of Compliance is officially issued.



2️⃣ NG eCall Certification Timeline & Key Risks

Typical Duration:
A full certification cycle takes 8–12 weeks (2–3 months) — longer than legacy eCall due to more complex technical requirements and added cybersecurity validation.



3️⃣ Key Risks & Mitigation Strategies

  • 1. Test Failure:
    Failed tests require design modification and re-testing, extending the project by 1–2 weeks and increasing cost by 50%–70%.

  • 2. Design Changes After Certification:
    Any hardware, firmware, or OTA updates that may impact performance require partial re-testing, adding 2–3 weeks and 30%–70% additional cost.



4️⃣ Practical Recommendations

Early Preparation:
Start documentation early and confirm your EC-REP appointment before testing.

Select Experienced Laboratories:
Partner with labs like BLUEASIA, familiar with automotive EMC, eCall functional, and cybersecurity testing.

Plan for Future Updates:
Design your system architecture with modular testing in mind to minimize re-testing impact after OTA updates.



5️⃣ Summary

The EU NG eCall certification ensures safety, interoperability, and regulatory compliance for next-generation in-vehicle emergency systems. With increasing integration of GPS, LTE/5G, and cybersecurity elements, planning ahead is critical to achieve smooth market access.

For professional consulting and certification testing services,
Contact BLUEASIA: +86-13534225140
Email: king.guo@cblueasia.com



6️⃣ FAQ — Common Questions About NG eCall Certification

Q1: Is NG eCall certification mandatory for all vehicles sold in the EU?
✅ Yes. All new vehicles in the EU with eCall systems must comply with Regulation (EU) 2024/1180, which specifies NG eCall requirements.

Q2: Can legacy eCall devices still be sold after 2025?
 No. Only NG eCall devices that meet the latest EU requirements will be accepted after the transition period.

Q3: How long is the NG eCall certificate valid?
 Generally, the certificate remains valid unless major hardware or firmware modifications occur that impact performance.

Q4: What documents are essential for submission?
 Technical file, circuit diagrams, MSD data description, privacy statement, user manual, and test reports.