Many exporters target the Saudi market, yet few fully understand SASO 2944 certification. Most automakers are familiar with EU eCall rules but confused about SASO 2944 versions, enforcement timelines and exemption policies. This article sorts out the full update progress and 2026 latest changes.
SASO 2944 is the Saudi standard for Motor Vehicle Emergency Call Technical Requirements. The eCall system automatically dials the 911 PSAP after severe collisions, transmitting standardized MSD minimum dataset including GPS location, VIN code, occupant number and driving direction. Manual trigger and voice communication with rescue centers are also mandatory.
It applies to LDV light vehicles with GVW ≤3.5 tons imported into Saudi Arabia.
2. Version Evolution: 2020 to 2023
SASO 2944:2020 set phased enforcement: new vehicles mandatory from 2023 MY, all vehicles mandatory from 2025 MY, later partially postponed.
SASO officially released SASO 2944:2023 in July 2024 via WTO TBT notification (G/TBT/N/SAU/1304/Rev.1), with three core updates:
·Mandatory 4G LTE support for eCall modules, phasing out pure 2G/3G solutions.
·Low-volume exemption: annual production/import below 75 units eligible for eCall waiver.
·Unified mandatory enforcement postponed to January 1, 2027, implemented by calendar year instead of model year.
3. Core Technical Requirements
·Post-collision continuous operation: Independent backup power supply mandatory to sustain eCall operation after main power failure.
·MSD specification: GNSS positioning required, ASN.1 UPER encoding format limited to 140 bytes; 2023 edition prioritizes 4G channel for data and voice transmission.
·Bilingual HMI: Arabic and English mandatory for onboard display and user manuals.
·Service independence: Basic eCall function must work without paid TSP subscription.
·Document compliance: User manual shall specify eCall installation, operation, telecom characteristics and maintenance rules.
4. SABER Platform Access Mechanism
Saudi market access adopts the SABER conformity assessment system, with two core certificates:
·PCoC (Product Certificate of Conformity): Type approval for vehicle model + eCall system, issued by SASO-recognized CAB after technical document review and test report verification.
·SCoC (Shipment Certificate of Conformity): Mandatory per-batch certificate for customs clearance, applied via SABER with valid PCoC.
Vehicle eCall certification is integrated into whole vehicle type approval, not standalone certification.
5. 2027 Enforcement Timeline & 2026 Preparation Suggestions
The 2027 mandatory deadline leaves limited preparation time in 2026. eCall verification, laboratory testing, document audit and certificate issuance usually take several months; hardware upgrade for 4G modules requires supply chain adjustment and integrated testing.
Key note on low-volume exemption: The 75-unit threshold is based on brand annual total sales, not single-model sales; do not misjudge exemption eligibility.
SASO 2944 is not merely a standard update, but the construction of the Middle East automotive IoT safety infrastructure.
For Saudi SASO 2944 certification, contact BlueAsia technical consultant: 13534225140
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