The ongoing postponement of equipping all vehicles produced for sale in Russia and those imported from abroad with in-vehicle emergency call systems remains in effect. This policy, which began earlier, continues to govern both domestic manufacturers and foreign imports until new guidance is issued.
It should be noted that the optional installation of the system was set to be valid through December 31, 2022, with the possibility of extension if supply chain constraints persist. In practical terms, this means that buying or owning a vehicle during the transition period does not require immediate full installation, though authorities may adjust the timeline if components remain scarce.
The traffic police in Russia has reiterated this position via its Telegram channel, citing clarifications provided by the Ministry of Industry and Trade. The ministry, which oversees technical regulation and related standards, confirmed that vehicles imported into Russia from abroad may not be outfitted with the in-vehicle emergency call equipment at this time. This rule applies to privately owned cars, as well as those used by legal entities or individual entrepreneurs, ensuring a uniform approach across import categories.
ERA-GLONASS modules are designed to automatically alert emergency services when an accident is detected. The system is intended to identify a crash, notify the relevant services, and transmit precise location data to attending officers. This capability supports rapid response by ambulances, the traffic police, and the Ministry of Emergency Situations, potentially saving valuable time at the scene of an incident.
In the meantime, AvtoVAZ has begun re-installing ERA-GLONASS units in vehicles already in service. However, the current installations do not yet provide a fully automatic alert function. Instead, the system activation relies on a manual trigger, such as pressing a dedicated button, to notify authorities if an emergency occurs. This phased approach aligns with the broader regulatory stance while producers work toward full system functionality.
Industry observers note that the regulatory environment remains fluid, with updates expected as supply chains stabilize and technical capabilities mature. Drivers and fleet operators should stay informed about any changes to installation deadlines, module requirements, and the availability of automatic calling features. By keeping abreast of official statements from the Ministry of Industry and Trade and the traffic police, stakeholders can plan purchases, maintenance, and safety upgrades with confidence, while authorities balance safety benefits against practical considerations for importers and manufacturers. [Citation: Ministry of Industry and Trade of Russia; State traffic safety authority]