From April 2018, every vehicle in the European Union (EU) with a new type approval must have the eCall automatic emergency call system installed –meaning connectivity will be standard.

Technology company Continental has been developing telematics units since 1996 and welcomes the decision of the European Commission (EC). “For us, eCall means that we are a huge step closer to Vision Zero – mobility without road deaths or injuries – as help is now automatically on its way in the case of an accident,” said Johann Hiebl, head of Continental’s Infotainment & Connectivity business unit.

“By using the telematics unit for other applications, such as real-time information about traffic flows or potential hazards, accidents can even be actively avoided and congestion minimised.”

The eCall system automatically sends an emergency alert with the vehicle’s exact location to the closest appropriately equipped public-safety answering point.

Continue reading European eCall mandate poised to come into effect at ADAS & Autonomous Vehicle International.