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 and nine different system suppliers. At least four further vehicle manufacturers are expected to introduce systems within the next two years.

Continental’s recent take over of Siemens puts them clearly in front as the main supplier of Smart Key systems. However, Marquardt’s new innovations have put them ahead in terms of technical capability. Next generation systems have been advertised by a range of suppliers including Hella and Valeo, who only supply a single vehicle model each.

There are a range of fitment strategies in evidence from vehicle manufacturers. Using standard fit system to provide grade differentiation, reducing functionality to lower the system cost, combining the system with other features as an option bundle, or even splitting smart entry and smart start in order to reduce the perceived option cost to the customer.

This report shows the current relationships between suppliers and manufacturers. Using standard fit system with other features as an option bundle, or even splitting smart entry and smart start in order to reduce the perceived option cost to the customer.

It also identifies the hardware fitment trends for each of the four basic smart key system functions: smart lock, smart unlock, smart start and emergency start.

• Push button start systems continue to increase rapidly in popularity for both Smart Key and non-Smart Key equipped vehicles
• The use of separate capacitive touch sensors on door handles for lock and unlock is increasing
• There is little commonality in the method of starting the car if the Smart Key battery is flat
• Emergency operation continues to be an area where the variety of solutions may provide driver confusion

Request more information about this research by downloading our information bulletin or contacting Juanita Appleby on jappleby@sbd.co.uk