A new security device from RAC is set to help reduce car thefts in the UK, regardless of the thief having the owner’s keys.
A new security device from RAC is set to help reduce car thefts in the UK, regardless of the thief having the owner’s keys.
RAC Invisishield works by being an invisible guard against vehicle theft. A sensor is fitted in the inside of the car in a secret location of the owner’s choice, which can only be activated by a special fob unique to the owner. There are no buttons to press or codes to remember; the owner simply needs to hold the fob against the sensor for a couple of seconds, which disarms the system, allowing the car to then be started in the usual way. This means that if thieves do get hold of car keys they won’t be able to start the car, even if they have the fob, as they still have to find the secret location (an almost impossible task given the number of possible locations).
Home Office statistics show that over 80% of stolen cars are driven away by thieves using the owner’s car keys*. In addition to keys being stolen from places such as pockets and handbags, thieves are now resorting to burglaries and muggings, specifically to steal car keys.
Simon Bates, RAC marketing manager said: "The reality is that no one is immune from car theft. Thieves are becoming ever more intrusive in the way they steal cars, resorting to stealing car keys through burglaries and muggings. Once a thief has the car keys it renders alarms and immobilisers useless. RAC Invisishield is a sophisticated piece of technology that will ensure the thief will not be able start the engine, regardless of having the keys, hence avoiding the sheer inconvenience and distress of having a car stolen."
Invisishield, which was developed by Karma Innovations in the UK and is manufactured in Bridgend.
The product retails for Ł249 including professional installation by RAC technicians, at either a fitting centre or at home or work. For more information and to arrange an installation call 01246 223 274.
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RAC Press office contact:
Adam Cracknell on 01603 684916 or 07800 699517
Notes to editors:
*Home Office research (Emerging Methods of Car Theft - Dec 2004) shows that there is an increasing trend in keys being used to steal cars – particularly by committing burglary. For cars registered after 1997, keys were used in 85% of incidents where the method of theft was known.
- Invisishield does not affect your car’s performance in any way
- Invisishield comes with a 12 month guarantee
- Invisishield uses state of the art electronic technology and is UK-designed and made.
About RAC:
With around seven million members, RAC is one of the UK's most progressive motoring organizations, providing services for both private and business motorists. Whether it's roadside assistance, windscreen repair and replacement, learning to drive, vehicle inspections and checks, legal and financial services or up-to-the-minute traffic and travel information - RAC is able to meet motorists’ needs. RAC incorporates BSM, RAC Auto Windscreens, RAC Direct Insurance and HPI.
Aviva bought RAC last year. The acquisition brings together RAC's powerful brand and customer base with the expertise and leading position in motor insurance of Norwich Union Insurance (part of Aviva). Norwich Union is the UK's largest insurer, insuring one in seven motor vehicles and with a market share of around 14%.
About Karma Innovations Ltd:
Invisishield is the trading name of the company Karma Innovations Ltd. which is based in South Wales. The company is committed to developing sophisticated security systems which are easy to use.
The Invisishield anti car theft system achieves this through the use of Radio Frequency Identification Technology which is configured to make the system easy to use and virtually impossible for the would be thief to overcome. It is designed to prevent car theft even when the thief has the owner’s keys. The development of the system was undertaken in direct response to the vastly increased incidence of the use of owner’s keys in car theft. This typifies the company’s approach to using its technical expertise to solve real, practical security problems and needs.
The company is currently developing Invisishield solutions to theft of motor cycles and Heavy Goods Vehicles using similar technology.