The future of steering locks will be determined by the global need for vehicles that require a low cost solution. Value for money is the key phrase when selling cars in emerging markets. Vehicles must not only be at a low purchase price but be cost effective to run and maintain. Therefore, the simpl... [More]

The convenience of remote keyless entry is now almost ubiquitous and most drivers expect to be able to operate the locking functions, alarm system and often the power windows or exterior lighting of their vehicle via their RF key fob. The availability of vehicle data on internal networks and bet... [More]

Whilst optional take-up rates are still low due to lack of buyer motivation, overall availability of smart key systems continues to increase in Europe boosted by the trend towards push button start and higher technology vehicles. There are currently 85 systems available from 20 vehicle manufacturers... [More]

The fitment of smart key in the USA has been lower than in other major markets such as Europe, Japan and the Pacific regions, and a new report from SBD, "The market for Smart Key and Keyless Entry in the USA", looks at the reasons why. Although car buyers in the USA are g... [More]

The UK has the highest insurance related demands for alarm fitment in the world, and this study reveals how manufacturers meet those demands. In actual fact, this report shows that most models exceed those demands by fitting higher specification systems than are necessary to gain insurance relat... [More]

Smart Key systems have been available for over ten years, yet the industry is still struggling to generate strong customer interest. Drivers who have smart key systems are generally positive towards them and show strong likelihood of choosing a system on their next new car but overall fitment rate... [More]

SBD’s last in a three part series entitled “Understanding the UK car insurance system” has been released. “Part 3 – An introduction to Thatcham and their expanding global influence” explains who Thatcham are and the activities they are responsible for con... [More]

Which level of insurance approval should vehicle manufacturers and suppliers target for stolen vehicle tracking systems in the UK? There are more stolen vehicle tracking (SVT) systems sold in the UK than in any other country and they are categorised by a complex series of approval criteria,... [More]

SBD’s second in a three part series entitled “Understanding the UK car insurance system” has been released. “Part 2: How to gain competitive UK insurance ratings” explains how to gain competitive group ratings in the UK car insurance system at minimal cost. It ... [More]

Understand insurance and maximise your competitive position in the UK... The UK insurance approval system is one of the most complicated in the world and has specific performance requirements for damage & reparability in low speed impact, and security features. To help appreciat... [More]