When eCall activates, it makes a call to 999/112. The first thing it does when the call is answered is to send the Minimum Set of Data, or MSD for short.

This MSD contains information that is vital to get you help quickly. Deaths and serious injuries can be reduced with faster responses.

The MSD includes the following key information:

• If the eCall was activated automatically or manually.
• The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle, which allows the manufacturer, make and model to be found. This can be used by operators to find the vehicle from CCTV or from response units on the road. Rescue services can use the VIN to work out how best to rescue your from the vehicle.
• The fuel type, such as petrol, diesel, electric, hybrid, etc. Knowing the fuel type is important for rescue and recovery. Electric vehicles in particular need handling carefully.
• The position of the vehicle, as latitude and longitude, and whether the position is accurate.
• The previous two known positions. This helps to work out the path the vehicle took before the activation. The time between each position is not known, so no-one can work out the speed.
• The direction of travel.
• The number of passengers, usually worked out from the number of connected seatbelts or weight detectors in the seats.