Vehicle Emergency Call System (eCall) Compliance Certification: Costs 2025

The cost of compliance certification for the Vehicle Emergency Call System (eCall) varies depending on product type, market, functional complexity, and certification path. This guide provides a 2025 update on cost structures, regional differences, and practical optimization strategies.

1️⃣ eCall Certification Cost Overview

Cost Components:

eCall certification expenses mainly include testing fees, certification service fees, and additional costs such as prototypes or document modifications. Costs differ between communication modules/aftermarket devices and whole vehicle/on-board systems.

Regional Cost Reference (Approximate Ranges 2025):

2️⃣ In-Depth Core Cost Analysis

2.1 Basic Testing Fees

1. Functional & Performance Testing:

   • Automatic/manual triggering, MSD data transmission (V3 for NG eCall), positioning accuracy.

   • Cost: Communication modules ~$270–$1,600 USD; whole vehicle higher depending on GNSS & performance tests.

2. Environmental & Reliability Testing:

   • Includes high/low temperature cycling, vibration, EMC tests.

   • Cost: Modules ~$800–$2,000 USD; whole vehicle EMC tests €13,500–€34,000 EUR.

3. Crash Testing (Whole Vehicle Only):

   • Most expensive single test; includes vehicle write-off costs.

   • Cost: $27,000–$68,000 USD per test.

2.2 Certification Service & Other Costs

1. Certificate Issuance Fee:

   • EU Technical Service: ~$4,000–$11,000 USD.

   • Other regions (e.g., UAE TDRA): ~$1,350–$4,000 USD.

2. Document Review & Modification:

   • Typically 20–30% of total testing fees. Extra cost incurred if re-testing is required.

3. Prototypes & Accessories:

   • Usually 3–6 fully functional prototypes, costing ~$2,700–$6,800 USD.

3️⃣ Important Considerations & Hidden Costs

1. Certificate Maintenance Cost:

   • NG eCall certificates are valid for 3 years. Annual reporting and spot checks may require additional fees.

2. Design Change Cost:

   • Hardware or firmware changes (including OTA updates) affecting system performance may require re-testing, costing 30–70% of initial certification.

3. Non-Compliance Risk:

   • Selling non-certified products can lead to customs detention, fines, or market access delays in the EU and other regions.

4️⃣ Practical Tips for Cost Optimization

1. Plan Certification Early: Align certification with NG eCall deadlines to avoid redundant testing.

2. Pre-Testing & Lab Assessment: Conduct pre-tests to identify design issues before official certification.

3. Optimize Prototype Usage: Share prototypes for multiple tests when possible to reduce costs.

4. Coordinate Associated Certifications: For devices with wireless functions (4G/5G modules), ensure CE-RED compliance simultaneously.

5️⃣ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How long does NG eCall certification take?

• A: Typically 8–12 weeks, including preparation, lab testing, field tests, and review.

Q2: How many prototypes are required?

• A: Usually 2–3 fully functional final product samples are required for lab and real-world testing.

Q3: Are certificates permanent?

• A: No, NG eCall certificates are valid for 3 years. Annual reporting and spot checks are required.

Q4: Do I need CE-RED certification?

• A: Yes, if your eCall device contains wireless communication functions (e.g., 4G/5G modules).

Q5: What happens if a test fails?

• A: Re-testing is required, adding 1–2 weeks and 30–70% extra cost depending on modifications.

Q6: What if I want to sell in China or UAE?

• A: For China, refer to the AECS National Standard GB 45672-2025 (mandatory July 1, 2027). For UAE, crash testing is not required, but compliance with TDRA is needed.

6️⃣ Contact & Professional Consulting

For companies seeking expert guidance on eCall certification, BLUEASIA provides professional consulting services for EU NG eCall, China AECS, and other global markets.

• Email: king.guo@cblueasia.com

• Phone/WhatsApp: +86 13534225140

• Website: www.blueasialabs.com