Starting this week, all new cars sold in 28 European nations will come equipped with an automated 'eCall' system that will automatically report accidents, allowing first responders to get to the scene faster, and hopefully reduce fatalities.
The system, mandated by an EU law passed in 2015, uses technology similar to General Motors' OnStar system, including links to both the mobile phone network and GPS satellite-location networks. Unlike OnStar, there is no monthly charge for the system. Also unlike OnStar, the system notifies local emergency services directly, without a company operator in the middle.
Part of the push for the requirement comes from data showing that 55% of Europe's fatal accidents occur in rural areas, where low traffic can mean long delays in getting help—and possibly leading to fatalities that could have been avoided if help had arrived quickly.
Despite the obvious benefits, some critics have expressed concerns that the system's microphone, which allows emergency personnel to speak with people in the car, could also be used for eavesdropping, and that the tracking technology could be put to other uses as well.
There's no requirement for eCall to be installed in cars made for export outside the EU, but it's expected that other European countries may add the requirement soon. As for exports to the U.S., it may depend on whether manufacturers see it as a possible selling point.
Photo: Tomwsulcer/Wikimedia
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