Volvo is using Vodafone’s IoT technology to let drivers in Europe track their vehicles.

The Vodafone Automotive VTS S5 is available for all Volvo models. It provides vehicle tracking and recovery via Vodafone Automotive’s network of secure operating centres, operational round the clock and working in partnership with local police across 44 European countries.

The device has received Cat S5 approval in testing by Thatcham Research, certification which may help car owners secure reductions in their insurance premiums or allow them to take advantage of specific insurance products for their car. The tracking device uses IoT technology, provided in partnership with Trinsic Connected Car.

“Our close and longstanding partnership with both Vodafone and Volvo Car continues to keep us at the top of our game, helping us to deliver unique and bespoke IoT services that address our customer’s specific needs,” said Darren Webb, CEO of UK-based Trinsic. “We aim to sit at the centre of customer’s commercial needs and Vodafone’s unbeatable technical capability. We are delighted to extend the Trinsic Connected Car programme to provide Volvo Car with Vodafone’s stolen vehicle tracking technology and recovery service, to ensure that the safety and security of our customers comes first.”

The tracking function works round the clock and can pinpoint a car’s location down to ten metres. Using the associated app, drivers can also monitor their car’s location in real time, check data on previous journeys and obtain directions to their car, whether they are walking or driving.

The system automatically recognises a small card carried by the driver; Vodafone Automotive is notified immediately if the car is stolen or is driven without the card being present. To prevent false alerts, special modes can be activated if the car is at a garage or being transported.

The system will also detect attempts to tow the car away, tamper with its battery or cut wires in a theft attempt. If the car is stolen, a Vodafone operator will contact local police services to give a minute-by-minute log of the car’s location, providing intelligence in helping the police secure the recovery of the car and a conviction.

“At Volvo, we have always put the safety of our customers first and, as we move into an increasingly digital world, we know how important the role of technology is in achieving this,” said Hanif Jivani, accessories programme manager at Volvo Car. “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.”

Nick Gliddon, business director at Vodafone, added: “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 such as Volvo are using our technology and connectivity to help their customers when they need it most.”