German automotive parts supplier HELLA intends to start the first production of its digital smartphone-based car key within the next two years.
HELLA Smart Car Access will be using ultra-wideband (UWB) technology to ensure that HELLA’s system solution will not necessarily require an app and that it would continue to run despite inaccessibility to networks or an internet connection. The system solution is compatible with both Android and iOS operating systems.
“HELLA manufactures around 25 million classic remote keys per year for a large number of reputable car manufacturers worldwide,” Bjorn Twiehaus, HELLA Electronics Division Managing Director, told Automotive World. “That means that we already hold a leading position in this market field. Building on our strong technology base, we are now taking the next step with our smartphone-based Smart Car Access by making vehicle access even smarter, more comfortable and more secure, thus taking it to a new level.”
HELLA has been putting UWB technology in classic remote keys since 2019.
The smartphone-based car key from HELLA enables hands-free vehicle access. The car doors will be unlocked as soon as it detects the mobile device within 2 meters (about 6.5 feet) of the vehicle.
Access authorizations will be available for car-sharing services or fleet providers, according to Automotive World.
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