Most eCall manufacturers get confused by mixed regulations: EU 2017/79, EN 17240 and EU 2025/1871. This article clarifies standard hierarchy, test item division and product certification routes clearly.

1. Hierarchy of EU 2017/79 Regulatory System

·Basic Layer – EU 2015/758:The core framework mandates M1/N1 vehicles to equip eCall with basic functional definitions, enforced from 2018.

·Execution Layer – EU 2017/79:Specifies technical indicators, test items and certification rules to implement EU 2015/758.

·Update Layer – EU 2024/1180 & EU 2025/1871:Incorporates 4G/5G NG eCall into the regulatory system, supplements test details and transition timelines. Newer provisions prevail while valid old clauses remain effective.

  2. Core EN Standards for EU 2017/79 Testing

·EN 15722:Defines MSD data format for accident information transmission; MSD V3 for NG eCall adds more sensor and battery data.

·EN 16072:Specifies overall eCall system performance; the 2025 version becomes mandatory for new certifications from Jan 1, 2027.

·EN 16062 / EN 16454:Regulates end-to-end communication protocol and conformance test methods for IVS and PSAP linkage.

·EN 17240:2024:Upgraded from CEN/TS 17240:2018; mandatory for new applications in 2027 and certificate renewal in 2028.

·ETSI TS 103 683:GNSS positioning performance test standard, defining cold/hot start time and positioning accuracy.

·UN R10:Mandatory EMC standard for all automotive electronic eCall systems.

  3. Four Major EU 2017/79 Test Modules

·Function & Communication Test:Verify automatic/manual emergency call trigger, 10s connection limit, MSD format and backup battery performance per EN 15722/16062/16072.

·NG eCall Special Test:IMS-based 4G/5G packet communication test is mandatory for new applications since 2026; 4G/2G/3G network switching is temporarily non-mandatory.

·GNSS Positioning Test:Independently verify module cold/hot start, static/dynamic accuracy in line with ETSI TS 103 683.

·EMC & Safety Test:Full UN R10 compliance; backup battery endurance test is enforced from Jan 1, 2027 per EU 2025/1871.

  4. Product Classification & Certification Routes

·M1 Passenger Cars:Adopt WVTA whole vehicle type approval with full test items; NG eCall certification takes 4-6 months.

·N1 Light Commercial Vehicles:Mandatory for eCall with slight differences in backup power and low-temperature adaptability compared with M1.

·IVS/STU Independent Certification:Available for T-Box and component suppliers; vehicle authorities may require supplementary interface verification.

·Hardware & Chip Modification:Minor software upgrades only need filing; core changes of communication module, GNSS chip and antenna require targeted or full retesting.

  5. Common Pitfalls to Avoid

·Backup battery endurance test is a hard deadline for 2027.

·Incorrect EN standard version numbers will lead to direct application rejection.

·WVTA eCall validity follows the vehicle lifecycle; independent STU certificates are valid for 3 years.

·No new CS eCall applications accepted after Jan 1, 2026; legacy CS eCall certificates expire on Jan 1, 2027.

For EU 2017/79 eCall certification, contact Blueasia Testing & Certification Consultant: 13534225140