The more things change, the more things stay the same. The EC’s long and slow march towards pan-European eCall took another important step forward recently. But as always, hurdles and uncertainties remain, making it hard for the automotive industry to distinguish fact from fiction. The ITS Directive ~ Progress but just as much confusion as ever. [More]

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 recent approval of the ITS Directive by the European Parliament has received widespread coverage within the telematics industry, but there remains a great deal of confusion about what it actually means. Contrary to various claims, the approval of the ITS Directive does not mean that eCall ha... [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]

A global analysis of the future market for steering locks Mechanical and electrical steering and transmission lock suppliers’ concerns over the future of their products prompted SBD to produce a report that analyses the impact of global technology developments in this market. Asian, Eu... [More]

The Brazilian government has recently announced another extension to the introduction timing for mandatory anti-theft devices (immobiliser and telematics unit with remote immobilisation and tracking capability) on all new vehicles. This delay allows vehicle manufacturers more time to complete the te... [More]

The winning vehicles in the 2010 British Insurance Vehicle Security Awards were announced yesterday which included for the first time recognition for the manufacturers of the greenest car and van. One of SBD’s closest clients, Toyota were placed 1st and 2nd in the Green Car award for its P... [More]

The winning vehicle manufacturers in the 2010 British Insurance Vehicle Security Awards were announced with one of SBD’s closest clients, Nissan, recognised for their commercial vehicle security fitment and performance. Since 2004, these highly regarded awards by Thatcham have recognised a... [More]

There is no right answer when it comes to deciding what is going to be the dominant solution for the future of in-car navigation. That's the conclusion of Andrew Hart, senior specialist on navigation at automotive industry consultancy SBD. He believes that embedded navigation will cont... [More]

After many years of slow growth within the telematics industry, vehicle manufacturers are beginning to accelerate the launch of new services in order to meet consumer expectations for a connected in-car experience. Over 130 services are now offered by 22 brands in Europe and the USA. Many more serv... [More]