The British government is opposing the European Union’s idea to include eCall system as a mandatory feature in cars. eCall is a life-saving communication system that calls emergency services automatically, in the event of a collision.

The anti-eCall advocates claim that the smart motorways across United Kingdom already render a quick emergency response service for such accidents. Moreover, the government would have to take on a burden of £370 million as a training and advertisement expense.

On the other hand, supporters of the new safety system are of the view that the smart motorways do not cover the rural locations of the country. Studies show, above 70 percent of total accidents in the UK are recorded in rural areas. In addition, a significant number of motorists drive to other EU member states, where the eCall system will be enforced.

Major EU states other than UK have already mandated this technology by legislation. By March 2018, all cars sold across EU will come with an eCall chip. However, this chip will carry an additional cost of £100, which will be borne by the consumer. Manufacturers like Ford and Citroen are already offering eCall system as standard equipment in some of their vehicles sold in Europe.

It must be noted that the UK government has just published a review of regulations for automated vehicle technologies, and will soon bring a code of practice for testing driverless cars in UK.

If this goes as smooth as planned, the eCall system will save up to 2,500 lives a year. Do you think the UK government should comply to EU? Share with us in the comments section below.