On June 1, 2026, Keysight Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: KEYS) announced a significant milestone in automotive safety communications by achieving Hybrid eCall certification to the EN 18052:2025 standard from DEKRA. This certification highlights Keysight’s proactive approach in providing standards-based testing solutions that are essential for automotive manufacturers to comply with evolving safety regulations while expediting the rollout of next-generation connected vehicles.

2. Addressing the Transition in Cellular Networks

As the automotive industry steps into an era dominated by advanced connectivity, the transition away from legacy 2G and 3G networks to more robust packet-switched 4G and 5G infrastructures presents a unique set of challenges for automakers. The pressure is on manufacturers to implement compliant Next-Generation eCall (NG-eCall) systems that can operate seamlessly across various network environments, as modernization efforts vary by region.

Keysight’s Hybrid eCall solution is designed to tackle these challenges head-on. By allowing in-vehicle systems (IVS) to dynamically switch between legacy and NG-eCall systems based on real-world network availability, Keysight is empowering automakers to ensure reliable operation of emergency communications, regardless of the network conditions.

3. Comprehensive Validation from DEKRA

The certification from DEKRA not only validates Keysight’s Hybrid eCall solution but also assures that it effectively mitigates risks associated with integration across various components of the automotive safety ecosystem. This ecosystem spans IVS, mobile networks, and public safety answering points (PSAPs).

Key Testing Scenarios Covered

The DEKRA validation encompasses several critical real-world testing scenarios essential for ensuring the effectiveness of emergency communications:

Emergency Call Setup: Validates quick connection establishment and stability across diverse network structures.

Minimum Set of Data (MSD) Transmission: Ensures that accurate vehicle location and telemetry data are transmitted to first responders without delay.

Voice Communication: Guarantees clear and uninterrupted voice quality, even in challenging network conditions.

Network Fallback: Assesses the system’s fail-safe performance during transitions between NG-eCall and legacy network environments.

4. Leadership in Testing and Interoperability

Keysight is set to showcase its leadership in Hybrid eCall and NG-eCall testing at the upcoming ETSI NG-eCall Plugtests™ 2026 event. This event, organized by ETSI’s Centre for Testing and Interoperability, will gather automotive manufacturers, suppliers, network operators, and emergency services stakeholders to validate multi-vendor interoperability in real-world conditions using commercial infrastructure.

5. Statements from Industry Leaders

Lourdes Sánchez, Connectivity Director of DEKRA, emphasized the importance of this certification, stating, “At DEKRA, we are committed to supporting the automotive industry in the transition towards next-generation emergency communications through testing and certification services aligned with the latest European standards. Our collaboration with Keysight in validating its Hybrid eCall capabilities according to EN 18052:2025 has enabled the verification of critical aspects related to interoperability, reliability, and regulatory readiness.”

Thomas Goetzl, Vice President and General Manager of Keysight’s Automotive & Energy Solutions, echoed this sentiment, noting, “The automotive industry is at a critical juncture as cellular infrastructure evolves. Achieving this DEKRA certification underscores our commitment to delivering real-world-ready solutions, giving manufacturers the confidence to scale their connected vehicle platforms globally while meeting the highest safety standards.”

6. Conclusion

The achievement of Hybrid eCall certification by Keysight Technologies marks a pivotal step forward in enhancing automotive emergency communications. With the ongoing evolution of cellular networks and increasing demands for safety compliance, Keysight is positioned as a vital partner for automakers navigating this complex landscape. The company’s commitment to real-world-ready test solutions not only facilitates manufacturers in meeting regulatory requirements but also fosters the development of safer, more connected vehicles for the future.

For more information about Keysight’s innovative solutions, visit the Keysight E6950B eCall Conformance Test Solution.

Original press release