The Vehicle Emergency Call System (eCall) is critical for vehicle safety, ensuring automatic emergency calls in case of accidents. With the transition to Next Generation eCall (NG eCall) using 4G/5G networks, understanding required documents and validity obligations is essential for manufacturers.
Official Name: eCall Certification (EU), NG eCall Certification (Next Generation)
Core Regulations: EU (EU) 2015/758, (EU) 2024/1180
Governing Body: EU Member State Recognized Technical Services
Certification Purpose: Ensures automatic emergency call triggering, improving rescue efficiency.
Mandatory Scope:
EU: M1 (passenger cars) and N1 (light commercial vehicles)
Saudi Arabia: Light vehicles ≤ 3.5 tons GVW
Preparing complete and accurate documentation is the first critical step.
2.1 Technical Core Documents
System Architecture & Circuit Design Diagrams: Clearly show hardware design and system composition.
MSD Data Logic Description: Details the Minimum Set of Data (MSD) generation, format, and transmission. NG eCall must use MSD V3 per (EU) 2024/1180.
Technical Specifications Sheet: Describes product functions, performance parameters, and technical indicators.
2.2 Testing & Proof Documents
Detailed Test Plan: Specifies all items for verification (function, performance, environment, network compatibility).
Complete Test Reports: Issued by an authorized lab, covering function, performance, environmental reliability, EMC, power failure reliability, and audio tests.
Privacy Protection Scheme: Demonstrates GDPR compliance, e.g., AES-256 encryption for user data.
2.3 Administrative & Legal Documents
EU Authorized Representative (EC-REP) Appointment Letter: Mandatory for non-EU manufacturers.
English User Manual: Includes privacy clauses and eCall labeling (e.g., permanent “eCall” mark, font height ≥1 mm).
2.4 Sample Requirements
2–3 fully functional final product samples are required for lab and real-world testing.
Understanding certificate validity is crucial for ongoing compliance.
Certificate Validity Period: Both legacy eCall and NG eCall certificates typically valid for 3 years.
Conditions for Maintaining Validity: Companies must fulfill ongoing obligations to avoid invalidation.
Annual Conformity Checks & Reporting: Annual reports (e.g., false/missed trigger analysis) and spot checks are required.
Design Change Management: Hardware/firmware changes (including OTA updates) affecting performance require partial/full re-testing and notification, adding time and cost.
NG eCall Mandatory Timeline:
Jan 1, 2026: New vehicle approvals must support NG eCall (legacy 2G/3G no longer accepted).
Jan 1, 2027: Legacy 2G/3G certificates expire; non-compliant vehicles banned from EU market.
Technology Foundation Overhaul: NG eCall uses 4G/5G + IMS, replacing legacy networks, supporting richer data (video, sensor data) and higher positioning accuracy.
Associated Certification: Devices with wireless modules (e.g., 4G/5G) must also comply with CE-RED certification.
BLUEASIA Testing & Certification Laboratory helps automotive brands achieve smooth eCall certification.
Email: king.guo@blueasialabs.com
Phone: 13534225140
✅ Expert guidance reduces time, cost, and regulatory risks.
Q1: What is EU NG eCall Certification?
A1: Compliance for next-generation emergency call systems using 4G/5G + IMS, improving rescue efficiency.
Q2: What are the core documents required?
A2: System architecture, MSD V3, technical specs, test plan, lab reports, GDPR compliance, EC-REP letter, English user manual.
Q3: How long is the certificate valid?
A3: Typically 3 years, with annual reports and spot checks required.
Q4: What are the differences between NG and legacy eCall?
A4: NG eCall uses 4G/5G + IMS, supports video and sensor data, positioning ≤ 3m. Legacy uses 2G/3G, basic MSD, GPS ~150m.
Q5: How can non-EU manufacturers apply?
A5: Appoint an EU Authorized Representative and work with EU Technical Services.
Q6: Are additional certifications needed for wireless eCall devices?
A6: Yes, CE-RED certification is required.
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