X-HeERO Project

The urgency of this project stems from the current technological transition: mobile network operators across Europe are progressively deactivating 2G and 3G networks, on which the current eCall system operates. The new NG eCall will function on 4G and 5G networks, allowing information to be transmitted through data packets, exponentially increasing communication capacity in emergency situations.

X-HeERO features a consortium of 38 project partners from eight EU member states (Germany, Belgium, Cyprus, Spain, Italy, Luxembourg, Moldova, and Romania), plus six associated partners from four states (Czech Republic, Finland, Romania, and the United Kingdom), demonstrating Europe's commitment to unified emergency response systems.

By 2026, X-HeERO aims to have all participating PSAPs fully prepared for NG eCall, resulting in enhanced emergency response times, seamless cross-border communication, and improved traffic incident management on European roads.

Applus+ IDIADA's Contribution to the Project

Applus+ IDIADA actively participates in three key work packages of the X-HeERO project:

WP1: Study for an Upgrade of PSAP for NG eCall

In collaboration with the Spanish consortium, Applus+ IDIADA will analyze the NG eCall standards and contribute to upgrading two PSAPs in Spain (Valencia and Galicia) to be fully operational with the new technology. Additionally, IDIADA will deploy a new NG eCall PSAP at our own facilities to use in testing between our centers once the project is completed.

WP2: eCall for Vulnerable Road Users and Autonomous Vehicles

Applus+ IDIADA will contribute its regulatory expertise, providing information on applicable requirements within the framework of current regulations. IDIADA's Homologation department, expert in regulations for Vulnerable Road Users (VRUs) and Connected Autonomous Vehicles (CAV), will be actively involved with working groups at the recommendation and standardization level, working jointly with CTAG.

WP3: PSAP Data Integration

Applus+ IDIADA will be the only actor from the Spanish consortium involved in this work package, providing support as an expert in protocols for data exchange and cybersecurity in eCall. Our expertise in the UNECE R155 Cybersecurity Regulation will be fundamental to ensuring the security and integrity of eCall data and transmission.

This project will not only revolutionize the emergency response infrastructure in Europe but will also establish the foundations for NG eCall technology to benefit vulnerable users and integrate into the autonomous vehicles of the future, making a significant contribution to European road safety.