The Department for Transport has issued guidance warning motorists that Next Generation (NG) eCall systems fitted to many new cars and light commercial vehicles may not operate reliably until the UK’s telecommunications infrastructure has been upgraded by 31 March 2027.

NG eCall has been introduced in most new cars and vans registered from 1 September last year (the ’75’ registration plate onwards) and is designed to automatically contact the emergency services following a serious collision.

The updated technology is being introduced to provide a consistent approach across Europe and to ensure compatibility with 4G and 5G mobile networks as existing 2G networks, which support the previous generation of eCall, are phased out between 2029 and 2030. Once operational, NG eCall is expected to remain compatible for the majority of a vehicle’s lifespan.

However, the Government says that, until the national infrastructure upgrade is complete, drivers should not rely on the system in an emergency and should instead use a mobile phone or roadside SOS phone where possible.

The DfT says motorists purchasing a new vehicle should check with their retailer whether it is equipped with NG eCall. It adds that owners of vehicles registered before 1 September 2025 do not need to take any action.

(File picture – VESOS)