Are Smart Keys a Smart Choice?
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SBD report identifies cost and security as principle concerns as market for easy-entry and easy-start systems accelerates
The past two years have seen a surge in the number of cars featuring "smart key" systems, with more and more motorists enjoying the convenience of using an electronic card or token in place of a traditional mechanical key.
(Click on the photo to enlarge. High resolution versions are available)
SBD, one of Europe's top independent vehicle security consultants, has taken the lead in benchmark testing new smart key systems and analysing market trends. In a new technical report it focuses on the principle factors that will move the market forward and highlights UK security requirements that will place new demands on manufacturers.
The report, Smart key system development and availability in Europe, shows that since Mercedes-Benz pioneered the technology on its S-Class range in 1999, 24 other vehicles have adopted similar systems, with 12 more scheduled for launch by the end of 2006. The majority are prestige models, although volume brands such as Ford, Opel/Vauxhall and Nissan, are making smart keys available to a much wider market.
SBD demonstrates how the relatively high cost of smart keys as optional equipment has dropped steadily in the past six years, to an average of almost £670. At the same time, the proportion of vehicle sold with smart keys provided has standard has grown significantly.
Smart keys are marketed as convenience features, yet their operation has implications for vehicle security. The UK insurance industry has taken a lead in Europe with the adoption of specific operating standards for smart keys. Developed by the research organisation Thatcham, these came into force in May this year and apply to systems fitted as standard equipment to new model ranges.
In the past year, SBD has tested nine vehicle smart key systems against the Thatcham criteria and found that all bar one - that offered on the Nissan Micra - would not meet the required level of security. Although the system developed for the Ford Focus does not conform exactly to the new criteria, SBD believes it could be passed.
Assessment of each system's convenience and features showed generally high performance levels, with the Audi A6's smart key emerging the best overall.
David Bell, SBD managing director, said: "Our testing has shown that many of the smart key systems on the market would not meet the security levels demanded by UK insurers, although in many instances the margins of non-compliance are small.
"This doesn't have a direct impact on their market status or on the insurance premiums paid by motorists, as most were launched before the Thatcham standards came into force, or are not offered as standard equipment across a model range. However, the results do show that manufacturers and equipment designers will have to work hard to meet the standards, if smart keys are to become standard features on future new models." ENDS
Research Material:
SBD Ltd. is an independent company providing specialist consultancy services in the design and development of automotive components and systems. The company founded in 1995 has extensive knowledge of the strategic development of vehicle systems.
Working closely with manufacturers and suppliers, SBD provides consultancy support at various levels, including: Technical Research, Strategic Planning, Program Management and Product Development.
SBD also provides the industry with detailed market and technical reports on various technologies, market trends and competitor analysis. The company has helped to develop many successful systems seen in the market today and is continuing to help manufacturers implement the next generation of systems with an emphasis on Vehicle Security and Vehicle Telematics.
For further information: -
Patrick Strauss, Business Development Manager
SBD Ltd
The Old Brewery
The Stocks
Cosgrove
Northants MK19 7JD
Telephone 01908 305101
Fax 01908 305106
web site www.sbd.co.uk
The past two years have seen a surge in the number of cars featuring "smart key" systems, with more and more motorists enjoying the convenience of using an electronic card or token in place of a traditional mechanical key.
(Click on the photo to enlarge. High resolution versions are available)
SBD, one of Europe's top independent vehicle security consultants, has taken the lead in benchmark testing new smart key systems and analysing market trends. In a new technical report it focuses on the principle factors that will move the market forward and highlights UK security requirements that will place new demands on manufacturers.
The report, Smart key system development and availability in Europe, shows that since Mercedes-Benz pioneered the technology on its S-Class range in 1999, 24 other vehicles have adopted similar systems, with 12 more scheduled for launch by the end of 2006. The majority are prestige models, although volume brands such as Ford, Opel/Vauxhall and Nissan, are making smart keys available to a much wider market.
SBD demonstrates how the relatively high cost of smart keys as optional equipment has dropped steadily in the past six years, to an average of almost £670. At the same time, the proportion of vehicle sold with smart keys provided has standard has grown significantly.
Smart keys are marketed as convenience features, yet their operation has implications for vehicle security. The UK insurance industry has taken a lead in Europe with the adoption of specific operating standards for smart keys. Developed by the research organisation Thatcham, these came into force in May this year and apply to systems fitted as standard equipment to new model ranges.
In the past year, SBD has tested nine vehicle smart key systems against the Thatcham criteria and found that all bar one - that offered on the Nissan Micra - would not meet the required level of security. Although the system developed for the Ford Focus does not conform exactly to the new criteria, SBD believes it could be passed.
Assessment of each system's convenience and features showed generally high performance levels, with the Audi A6's smart key emerging the best overall.
David Bell, SBD managing director, said: "Our testing has shown that many of the smart key systems on the market would not meet the security levels demanded by UK insurers, although in many instances the margins of non-compliance are small.
"This doesn't have a direct impact on their market status or on the insurance premiums paid by motorists, as most were launched before the Thatcham standards came into force, or are not offered as standard equipment across a model range. However, the results do show that manufacturers and equipment designers will have to work hard to meet the standards, if smart keys are to become standard features on future new models." ENDS
Research Material:
SBD Ltd. is an independent company providing specialist consultancy services in the design and development of automotive components and systems. The company founded in 1995 has extensive knowledge of the strategic development of vehicle systems.
Working closely with manufacturers and suppliers, SBD provides consultancy support at various levels, including: Technical Research, Strategic Planning, Program Management and Product Development.
SBD also provides the industry with detailed market and technical reports on various technologies, market trends and competitor analysis. The company has helped to develop many successful systems seen in the market today and is continuing to help manufacturers implement the next generation of systems with an emphasis on Vehicle Security and Vehicle Telematics.
For further information: -
Patrick Strauss, Business Development Manager
SBD Ltd
The Old Brewery
The Stocks
Cosgrove
Northants MK19 7JD
Telephone 01908 305101
Fax 01908 305106
web site www.sbd.co.uk
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