The vehicle emergency call system (eCall) is undergoing a major technology upgrade. Both the EU and China have defined clear standards for next-generation systems, focusing on 4G/5G-based communication, improved positioning, and enhanced safety features.
| Certification Dimension | EU (NG eCall) | China (AECS National Standard) |
|---|---|---|
| Core Regulation / Standard | (EU) 2015/758, (EU) 2024/1180 | GB 45672-2025 |
| Technology Basis | 4G/5G & IMS | 4G full-band, Beidou priority/single-mode positioning |
| Key Upgrade | From 2G/3G circuit-switched to packet-switched | New mandatory national standard |
| Positioning Accuracy | Dynamic scenario error ≤ 3m | As per Beidou system national standards |
| Data Transmission | Beyond 140-byte MSD; supports video & dynamic sensor data | Vehicle location, status info, 2-way voice call |
| Mandatory Timeline | 2026.1.1: NG eCall mandatory for new type approvals 2027.1.1: Legacy certificates expire | 2027.7.1: All new M1/N1 vehicles must comply |
1. EU NG eCall – Packet-Switched Upgrade
Moves from 2G/3G to 4G/5G IMS networks.
Supports dual-mode fallback to legacy CS eCall for reliability.
Key technical specifications: EN 17240:2024 (IMS-based end-to-end conformance) and updated ETSI interoperability specs.
2. China AECS – Localization & Comprehensive Protection
Beidou priority positioning for accurate vehicle location.
Automatic triggers for frontal, side, rear collisions; rollover detection under development.
Terminal must support full-band 4G communication.
Audio testing per GB/T 45314-2025, ensuring voice clarity and hands-free performance.
1. Functional & Performance Testing
Trigger Mechanism: Automatic activation (≥4g) & manual button response (≤2s).
MSD Transmission: Verify completeness, accuracy, and V3 MSD standard for EU.
Positioning Accuracy: EU ≤3m dynamic error.
Call Setup Time: ≤60s from trigger to PSAP connection.
2. Environmental Reliability & Network Compatibility
Function under extreme temperature (-40°C to +85°C), vibration, and shock.
EU NG eCall mandates 4G/5G with VoLTE/IMS; 5G NR connection stability tested.
3. Audio Quality & Safety Redundancy
Audio clarity ≥80 dB, compliant with ITU-T P.1140.
Backup battery ensures ≥10 minutes of operation post-power loss.
1️⃣ Follow Regulatory Timelines
EU NG eCall mandatory Jan 1, 2026; legacy certificates expire Jan 1, 2027.
2️⃣ Consider Associated Certifications
Wireless eCall modules: CE-RED certification required.
In China: Use CNAS-accredited labs for testing.
3️⃣ Pre-Testing & Pre-Assessment
Early design verification reduces modification costs and avoids certification delays.
BLUEASIA Testing & Certification Laboratory helps automotive brands navigate EU NG eCall, China AECS, and related standards.
Email: king.guo@blueasialabs.com
Phone: 13534225140
✅ Professional guidance reduces time, cost, and compliance risk.
Q1: What is the difference between EU NG eCall and China AECS?
NG eCall focuses on 4G/5G IMS with ≤3m positioning, EU mandatory from 2026.
AECS mandates Beidou-based positioning, 4G full-band, effective from 2027.
Q2: Which vehicles require eCall certification?
Passenger cars (M1) and light commercial vehicles (N1).
Components like T-Boxes and integrated eCall modules.
Q3: What tests are critical for certification?
Functional triggers, MSD transmission, GNSS positioning, call setup, environmental reliability, network compatibility, audio quality, and power failure redundancy.
Q4: Can overseas companies apply?
Yes, but EU requires EC-REP (Authorized Representative) for non-EU manufacturers.
Q5: How to reduce certification cost and risk?
Pre-test during design, avoid repeated failures, combine certifications (CE-RED, EMC), and use experienced labs.
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