In-car automated emergency calls move a step closer

EU plans for all new cars to be fitted with automated emergency call devices (eCall) moved a step closer today following a vote by the European Parliament's transport committee. The European Transport Safety Council (ETSC), representing safety campaigners and experts across the EU, welcomed the latest development. Antonio Avenoso, executive director of ETSC said, "After a serious car crash, every second counts. This system has the potential to save many lives because it will enable the emergency services
December 17, 2013 Read time: 2 mins
3287 EU plans for all new cars to be fitted with automated emergency call devices (eCall) moved a step closer today following a vote by the European Parliament's transport committee.

The 1197 European Transport Safety Council (ETSC), representing safety campaigners and experts across the EU, welcomed the latest development.

Antonio Avenoso, executive director of ETSC said, "After a serious car crash, every second counts. This system has the potential to save many lives because it will enable the emergency services to respond quicker.

"The European Parliament has been a strong supporter of eCall, it's important that Parliament negotiators continue to support the strongest possible implementation of the technology during negotiations with member states on the final deal.

"This technology should not be limited to cars, it also needs to be extended to other vehicles, including lorries, buses and ultimately motorcycles."

The transport committee also urged member states to run awareness campaigns in advance of the system's introduction.

The eCall package of legislation also includes requirements for eCall devices to be approved under the European type approval system - this will be a subject to a vote in the parliament's Internal Market committee on 23 January 2014. Before becoming law, a deal will need to be struck with member state transport ministers and approved by the full parliament.
Highway & Network Management

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • Call for a new EU road safety action plan
    April 30, 2012
    Members of the European Parliament have this week proposed over one hundred measures to improve road safety in the European Union. Their key aim is to better protect vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians, cyclists, children and the elderly.
    Read More
  • Pan-European enforcement of driving laws due
    September 30, 2013
    Pan-European enforcement of driving regulations should catch offenders and help improve Europe’s road safety - Mike Woof reports. Agreements are being reached that will see Pan-European enforcement of driving regulations. Drivers will now face being penalised for any offences committed in other European countries. The change is due on 7th November 2013. After this date EU Member States will commence the cross border exchange of data relating to road traffic offences. For this scheme to work, eight offences
    Read More
  • Crash cushion design
    February 13, 2012
    There are key differences in crash cushion design and quality for the United States and European markets. Developments in barrier technologies have followed the varying demands of specific markets, resulting in manufacturers offering different solutions for US and European needs.
    Read More
  • ERF gains membership in the CCAM Single Platform
    December 12, 2019
    The ERF has been appointed as a member of the CCAM Single Platform (Cooperative, Connected, Automated and Autonomous Mobility), explains Christophe Nicodème* of the ERF
    Read More

Highlighted Content