The Romanian-American University is partner in the European project X_HeERO – eCall Next Generation
The Romanian-American University (RAU) is a partner in the X_HeERO – eCall Next Generation project (ID: 101175713), a CEF Transport initiative that supports the preparation of Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) in the EU Member States for the transition to Next-Generation eCall (NG eCall) on 4G/5G networks, based on 112. The project develops a blueprint and reference implementations for modernising PSAP infrastructure, with end-to-end testing and recommendations for cross-border interoperability and digital data exchange.
Implementation period: 1 March 2024 – 30 June 2027 (40 months). Action type: CEF-INFRA. Implementing agency: CINEA.
Context: As mobile networks migrate and 2G/3G are phased out, NG eCall enables faster and more reliable data transmission during emergency calls and allows the integration of additional data (including from Third-Party Services – TPS).
Official X_HeERO website: xheero.eu (news, webinars, public resources).
RAU’s role in the project
As an academic partner, RAU contributes to analysis, applied research and dissemination regarding the transition to NG eCall, supporting the exchange of best practices within the consortium and taking part in information and training activities for the eCall community and stakeholders.
General objectives
- Prepare PSAPs for NG eCall (112) through blueprints and reference implementations interoperable at European level.
- Upgrade PSAP infrastructure and stimulate investment/interoperability by the end of 2025.
- Integrate new use cases: eCall for vulnerable road users and autonomous vehicles.
- Define/adjust the data interface between TPS and PSAP 112, including security and data management recommendations.
- Training & dissemination (training materials for 112 operators, recurring webinars).
- Economic and Cost–Benefit Analysis (ECBA) on the feasibility of large‑scale NG eCall deployment.
Expected results
- X_HeERO blueprint for upgrading PSAPs to NG eCall, accompanied by reference implementations, documented processes and replication guides.
- PSAPs equipped and tested end‑to‑end in the participating states; staff training and progress reporting on deliverables.
- Recommendations and guidelines for: migration to NG eCall over 4G/5G; integration of additional data; cooperation between PSAPs and traffic management centres; the TPS–PSAP interface.
- Studies and prototypes for VRU and autonomous vehicles, assessing the impact on data flows and PSAP procedures.
- Updated training materials and a series of webinars (announced on the project website).
- Two‑stage ECBA (methodology agreed with the European Commission) – recommendations for implementation and public policies.
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