Corvette Stingray Coupe

Make
Chevrolet
Segment
Coupe

The European Union has just mandated that as of March 31, 2018, all new cars in Europe must have an eCall system. What is eCall? It's a device that automatically contacts emergency personnel in the event of an accident. It's triggered by certain sensors, such as those on the airbags, and automatically creates an audio link to 112 (the EU's 911). It also transmits pertinent crash data, such as location and the time of the crash.

The system is designed to save lives by cutting emergency response times, with estimates coming in at a 40-percent reduction for built-up regions and 50 percent in the country. Experts estimate that eCall could save up to 2,500 lives a year. There has been opposition from some governments about the system awakening before a crash has occurred. The system is expected to cost manufacturers about $109 per car to install. Those wishing to install it on older calls will need to pay more.