Volvo Car UK is providing its customers with additional security and safety of their car with the introduction of Vodafone’s new vehicle tracking accessory.
Using the VTS S5 device, developed by Vodafone Automotive, drivers can monitor their vehicle location to within 10 metres at any time through their mobile. And if the vehicle is stolen, a 24/7 Secure Operating Centre works with police forces in 44 European countries to locate and recover the vehicle.
Connected over the Vodafone network, the device collects journey data, helps drivers with directions back to their car, and even alerts them if the car is started by someone it doesn’t recognise.
Internet of Things (IoT) smart sensors also detect if the car battery is being tampered with or being towed away, alerting the owner and gathering minute-by-minute information to aid police in its recovery.
Hanif Jivani, Accessories Programme Manager at Volvo Car UK, said:
“At Volvo, we have always put the safety of our customers first, and as we move into an increasingly digital world, we know how important the role of technology is in achieving this. Vodafone Automotive’s stolen vehicle recovery service will help us protect our customers and keep them reassured that their car is fitted with the highest standards of security in the industry.”
The IoT tech is powered by Vodafone in partnership with Trinsic Connected Car. Vodafone boasts more than 120m connected devices worldwide.
The tracking function works 24/7 and can pinpoint a car’s location down to 10 metres. Using the associated app, drivers can also monitor their car’s location in real time, check data on previous journeys and obtain directions to their car, whether they are walking or driving.
The system automatically recognises a small card carried by the driver; Vodafone Automotive is notified immediately if the car is stolen or is driven without the card being present. To prevent false alerts, special modes can be activated if the car is at a garage or being transported. The system will also detect attempts to tow the car away, tamper with its battery or cut wires in a theft attempt.
If the car is stolen, a Vodafone Automotive operator will contact local police services to give a minute-by-minute log of the car’s location – providing valuable intelligence in helping the police secure the recovery of the car and a conviction.
Nick Gliddon, Vodafone’s UK Business Director, said:
“Should you happen to fall victim to vehicle theft, our Stolen Vehicle Tracking technology puts you in the best possible position to locate and recover your car.
“We are delighted that companies like Volvo are using our technology and connectivity to help their customers when they need it most.”
The tracker is priced at £595, including fitting, VAT and a three-year subscription to the stolen vehicle recovery service.
