eCall

Automatic crash notification (ACN) or eCall is becoming a standard feature of connected services provision. OEMs, telematics service providers, insurance companies and roadside assistance companies increasingly use eCall as a gateway to other connected services. But due to regulations and complex procedures, implementing eCall is different and more complex than any other connected service.

Before the 2018 EU-wide eCall mandate, obligating all OEMs to equip new type-approved vehicles in Europe with an embedded eCall device, the car manufacturers were already offering eCall via third-party service providers such as Bosch, IMA, Allianz and OnStar. By establishing relationships with PSAPs (Public Safety Answering Point) such as 112 emergency call centres, police and emergency medical service centres and appropriate local authorities, the B2B2C providers have developed necessary competences and geographic coverage to supply the OEMs worldwide. The task is however challenging, as country-specific emergency service protocols have different technical standards and design and require third party service providers to obtain authorisation and, in some case, certification to handle and transfer emergency calls to PSAPs.

Increasing road safety and monetisation efforts motivate players to develop eCall capability.

Bundled with other connected services such as bCall, concierge services, UBI as well as stolen vehicle tracking/recovery, eCall is often the core element of the connected service provision in the private car segment. Through integration with crash management and claims management functions (e.g. first notice of loss) and as a function of fleet telematics offerings, companies active in diverse segments look to further employ the emergency assistance feature.

Regulations and initiatives will continue to accelerate the deployment of eCall worldwide. PTOLEMUS assists companies to assess the challenges that arise and to decide how to utilise the vast opportunities of eCall and telematics. The development demands careful market examination and strategic planning. Our experience in the field of eCall and connected vehicle services includes:

  • Defining company’s future connected vehicle services global strategy
  • Assessing regulatory environment and market development of eCall and other connected services at country level in Europe, Asia and S-America
  • Building global forecasts for various connected vehicle services
  • Analysing key trends impacting the market for connected vehicle services and evaluate the impact on different players in the ecosystem
  • Facilitating development of go-to-market strategies for xCall and other connected services
  • Defining & implementing the company’s partnership strategy in the connected vehicle ecosystem