Automatic driver recognition in connected cars makes Volvos even safer
Vodafone has created a vehicle tracking system for Volvo Cars, delivered with Internet of Things (IoT) specialist partner Trinsic Connected Car.
The benefits include micro-management of the stationary vehicle, through monitoring its location to within ten metres across 44 European countries to getting a better insurance deal.
The Vodafone Protect and Connect VTS S5 is a tracking system with automatic driver recognition. It creates a vehicle tracking and recovery service over Vodafone’s comms and through Vodafone Automotive’s network of operating centres. These communications units are operational 24/7 in partnership with the police in all regions of every European nation.
Volvo for life
The tracking device is hidden within the car and automatically recognises a small card carried by the driver. Vodafone Automotive is notified immediately if the car is driven in the absence of the cardholder.
To prevent false alerts, there are special modes in the system’s software that can be activated if the car is at a garage or being transported.
The tracker is intelligent enough to detect any activity that fits the pattern of an attempted theft, such as movements to tow the car away, tampering with the battery or cutting wires. 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.
It provides a range of useful intelligence. It can help the police follow the movements of the car and recover the stationary vehicle, in addition it can also provide digital evidence for a prosecution.
Drive safely
The system is rated Category S5 by safety and security specialist Thatcham Research, a certification which can help car owners negotiate better insurance premiums.
Some insurers are now creating special offers on new insurance packages and their contents, in recognition of the protection given by IoT system for connected cars, according to Vodafone Automotive.
“We have always put the safety of our customers first and technology has an increasingly important role in achieving this,” said Hanif Jivani, accessories programme manager at Volvo Car UK.
Should you happen to fall victim to vehicle theft, Vodafone’s technology is your best option for getting it back, said Nick Gliddon, Vodafone business director.