The carmaker is installing the Vodafone Automotive VTS S5 tracking device in all Volvo models, it announced.
Nick Gliddon, business director at Vodafone, 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 uses internet of things (IoT) technology, provided in partnership by Vodafone and a UK company called Trinsic Connected Car.
Vodafone said the round-the-clock tracking function can pinpoint a car’s location down to 10 metres. “Using the app, drivers can also monitor their car location in real time, check data on previous journeys and obtain directions to their car, whether walking or driving.”
The system automatically recognises a small card carried by the driver and Vodafone Automotive is notified immediately if the car is stolen or is driven without the card being present. The tracker will also detect attempts to tow the car away, tamper with its battery or cut wires in a theft attempt.
The tracker is priced at £595, including fitting, tax and a three-year subscription to the stolen vehicle recovery service.
Hanif Jivani, accessories programme manager at Volvo Car UK, said: “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 relationship between Vodafone and Trinsic is not new. Last year Vodafone said Trinsic was its IoT partner of the year, largely for its work with Volvo.
