E-Call in Bremen: Over 4,000 alerts, but almost 2,500 false alarms!

E-Call in Bremen: Over 4,000 alerts, but almost 2,500 false alarms!

Since 2018, the E-Call system, which is mandatory in all new vehicles in the EU, has been at the heart of the often lively transport debate. But not everything is going well, as the latest figures from Bremen show. In total, there have been almost 4,100 alerts since its introduction - a remarkable figure, but it also has its downsides: around 2,500 of these reports were false alarms. The Weser courier reports that out of 1984 alarms in Bremen, an impressive 1,661 were false alarms. In Bremerhaven the balance looks similar with 2,155 alarms and 762 false alarms.

The e-call system has its task of saving valuable time in an emergency and saving lives firmly under control. It automatically sends location data to rescue control centers when the airbags in the vehicle deploy. Interestingly, the system does not activate in less dramatic incidents such as parking collisions. However, sometimes drivers also manage to request help by manually pressing the E-Call button. This sounds like a well-thought-out system, but the high number of false alarms is caused by unwanted technical reasons or unintentional manual activations.

The benefits despite challenges

Although the error rate is worrying, experts emphasize the undeniable benefits of the e-call system. It should not only shorten the waiting time after an accident, but also significantly improve rescue times. An example from Twistringen in May 2025 shows how quickly help could be provided - a clear plus point for the concept. The EU Commission estimates that E-Call could save up to 2,500 traffic deaths every year. The numbers show that the system has potential if you just give it time to establish itself.

However, the e-call system faces a new challenge. It is currently based on 2G technology, which is expected to be switched off by Telekom in 2028 and by Vodafone in 2030. This change could have a dramatic impact as almost 16 million cars could be affected. From January 1, 2026, the next evolutionary step will be initiated: The Next Generation E-Call will in future be based on the 4G mobile network (LTE), which will become mandatory for all new vehicles by 2027.

Regulatory innovations

The regulatory framework is also in focus. On February 14, 2024 the Amendment to Regulation (EU) 2015/758 published to introduce standards for E-Call. These new guidelines, as a result of the knowledge gained to date, underline the need and importance of additional adjustments to the system.

In summary, it can be seen that the e-call system represents an exciting development in the area of ​​traffic safety - even if implementation is still bumpy. It remains to be seen how the new regulatory changes and the switch to the 4G network will overcome the current challenges. One thing is certain, however: a good hand is required to make the E-Call system what it should be: a life-saving help system on four wheels.