Mandatory installation of SOS buttons with ERA-GLONASS in cars imported into Russia postponed

The introduction of mandatory installation of emergency response call devices connected to the ERA-GLONASS system in vehicles imported by individuals, which was planned for 1 April 2026, has been postponed to a later date.
The new dates for the requirements to take effect have not yet been determined.

The Ministry of Industry and Trade said that the draft government resolution is undergoing interagency approval:

“The introduction, from 1 April 2026, of mandatory installation of emergency response call devices connected to the ERA-GLONASS system in vehicles imported by individuals is not planned and is being postponed to a later date”

The ministry also explained that car owners need more time to equip vehicles with SOS buttons at accredited service centers, and that there are also logistical difficulties between regions when carrying out such installations.

The ERA-GLONASS system is designed to automatically and manually call emergency services in the event of road traffic accidents. It is already used in new cars manufactured in Russia, and its scope of application is gradually expanding.

A moratorium on mandatory installation of emergency call buttons was introduced in 2022 due to an equipment shortage, which, in turn, was caused by a lack of the electronic components used in them as a result of sanctions. Since spring 2022, the requirement for individuals to install GLONASS modules has been optional, and it remains so to this day.