Vehicle Emergency Call System (eCall) Compliance Certification: New Regulations (2025 Update)

#1️⃣ Overview: eCall Certification Enters a New Era

The Vehicle Emergency Call System (eCall) is undergoing a major technological transition.
Both the European Union (EU) and China have introduced new regulatory frameworks demanding enhanced communication, positioning, and data transmission capabilities.

These updates redefine how vehicle emergency call systems are designed, tested, and certified — especially as 2G/3G networks are phased out.

#2️⃣ eCall Compliance: New Regulation Dimensions (EU vs. China)

#3️⃣ Core Insights: What the New Regulations Mean

1️⃣ EU NG eCall — Complete Technology Overhaul

The EU’s next-generation eCall (NG eCall) represents a fundamental shift from legacy 2G/3G circuit-switched systems to 4G/5G packet-switched networks based on IMS.

• Why this matters: 2G/3G networks across Europe are shutting down, forcing automakers to adopt IP-based communication.

• New capabilities: Enables richer accident scene data — video, crash impact, and vehicle diagnostics.

• Dual-mode requirement: During transition, NG eCall terminals must support fallback to legacy CS eCall to ensure reliability in poor 4G/5G coverage.

2️⃣ China AECS — Localized and Comprehensive Standard

China’s GB 45672-2025 (AECS) builds on global practices while integrating domestic technologies and networks.

• Beidou Positioning Support: Mandatory Beidou-priority or single-mode location service.

• Enhanced Trigger Conditions: Expands automatic activation beyond frontal impacts to include side, rear, and rollover scenarios.

• Network Modernization: Requires full-band 4G support due to nationwide 2G/3G phase-out.

This national standard marks a new baseline for emergency call compliance in China’s automotive industry.

#4️⃣ eCall Certification Process & Timeline (8–12 Weeks)

The certification process for NG eCall devices follows four main phases:

1️⃣ Preparation (≈ 1–2 Weeks)

• Select an EU-recognized Technical Service (e.g., KBA – Germany, SNCH – Luxembourg).

• Non-EU manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Representative (EC-REP).

• Prepare documentation:

  • Technical design & architecture

  • MSD data flow and privacy plan

  • Circuit diagrams

  • English user manual

2️⃣ Laboratory Testing (≈ 3–6 Weeks)

Conducted in authorized labs, covering:

• Functional & Performance Tests:
  MSD accuracy, call setup time (≤10s), positioning validation.

• Environmental & Reliability Tests:
  Temperature, vibration, and drop tests.

• EMC & Power Backup:
  Ensures electromagnetic compatibility and verifies the system operates for ≥10 minutes post-accident.

3️⃣ Field Operational Test (≈ 1–2 Weeks)

Validates system reliability in real road environments — testing network handover, location accuracy, and emergency call success rate.

4️⃣ Review & Certification (≈ 2–3 Weeks)

Technical Services review test reports and technical documentation before issuing the eCall compliance certificate.
Certificate validity: 3 years.

#5️⃣ Key Compliance Recommendations

✅ Manage Design Changes Carefully
Even minor hardware or firmware modifications — including OTA updates — may require partial or full re-testing.

✅ Plan for Parallel Certifications
If the eCall system includes wireless modules, coordinate CE-RED testing simultaneously to streamline compliance.

✅ Use Experienced Technical Partners
Early engagement with an accredited lab (such as BLUEASIA) minimizes delays and ensures your test plan aligns with 2026–2027 regulation deadlines.

#6️⃣ FAQ: eCall Certification Essentials

Q1: When do the new NG eCall requirements take effect?
 From January 1, 2026, all new type approvals must comply; from July 1, 2027, all new M1/N1 vehicles must include NG eCall.

Q2: How long does eCall certification take?
 Typically 8–12 weeks, depending on device complexity and test results.

Q3: Can existing 2G/3G-based eCall systems still be used?
 No. Legacy certifications will expire by January 2027.

Q4: Does China’s AECS standard apply to foreign automakers?
 Yes. Any imported or locally assembled vehicle sold in China must comply with GB 45672-2025.

Partner with BLUEASIA for Global eCall Compliance

BLUEASIA provides one-stop certification support for:

• EU NG eCall (2024/1180, UN R144)

• China AECS (GB 45672-2025)

• CE-RED & EMC testing for integrated communication systems.

Contact BLUEASIA: +86 135 3422 5140
Email: king.guo@cblueasia.com