MG Motor helps set automotive safety standards

With just 18 months to go until the introduction of mandatory in-car emergency call (eCall) systems for all new type approval vehicles sold within the European Union, MG Motor UK has confirmed its involvement as part of the CEN TC278/WG15 intelligent transport systems working group.

Through Guillaume Honore – Telematics Engineer at the SAIC Motor Technical Centre (SMTC), which is based at MG’s Longbridge site in Birmingham – the iconic British automotive marque will play a key role in the ongoing development of lifesaving eCall technologies across Europe.

As one of just sixty global members, only seven of whom are based in the UK, Guillaume will represent MG and the wider British automotive industry within the steering group, exchanging knowledge, best practice and industry experience, as well as consulting on the wider capabilities of in-car emergency technologies.

Alongside managing the preparation of standards in the run-up to eCall’s legislative roll-out across Britain, Guillaume will help to guide the integration of other state-of-the-art features into eCall capability, as well as work to identify additional benefits offered by cellular network connectivity.

Speaking about his involvement, Guillaume commented: “Being named as an expert within the CEN TC278/WG15 working group is a real honour.

“For MG, being part of the platform will help us to maintain our position as a forward-thinking automotive business, continually looking to identify new technologies and industry-leading capabilities.”

Matthew Cheyne, Head of Sales and Marketing at MG,added: “Introduced to improve safety and reduce emergency response times, eCall technology is a huge progression within the industry. Mandatory fitting will assist emergency services teams at the scene of an accident, helping to save the lives of countless motorists.

“Being involved in the EU steering group, through Guillaume’s expertise, is a significant achievement for MG, and one which will see us play a key role in the ongoing development of in-car technology standards.

“Guillaume has championed similar technology programmes for a number of other high-profile automotive manufacturers, making his experience and proficiency an invaluable asset. Bringing this knowledge to MG, while continuing his work as part of the group, is a huge opportunity for us to lead the way in technological capability, demonstrating our ambitions for the future.”

From March 2018, all new type approval cars sold within the European Union must be fitted with an approved eCall system. In the event of an accident, the system will transmit essential data – including type of vehicle, fuel used, time of accident and location – directly to the emergency services.

The European Commission estimates that, once eCall technology is implemented across the continent, hundreds of lives could be saved every year.

For more information about MG, or the technical work undertaken at the SAIC Motor Technical Centre (SMTC), visit www.mg.co.uk.