MESH

In the ever-evolving landscape of vehicle security, one term that has gained prominence, especially here in the UK, is the Thatcham Tracker.

As car theft continues to be a prevalent concern, drivers increasingly turn to advanced security measures to protect their vehicles.

In this blog post, we will delve into the world of Thatcham Trackers, exploring what they are, how they work and why they have become a vital component in the car security market.

The Rise of Car Theft in the UK

Car theft remains a significant issue across the United Kingdom and in many places around the world, with criminals employing increasingly sophisticated methods to bypass traditional security measures.

The need for robust, intelligent solutions to counteract these threats has never been more critical. Recognising this, the Thatcham Research Centre, a leading authority on vehicle safety and security, first introduced the Thatcham Tracker system in the 1970s.

What is Thatcham Tracker?

Fast forward to today, a Thatcham-approved tracker has become a sophisticated vehicle tracking and recovery system designed to enhance car security. Thatcham Research, an independent organisation established by the UK insurance industry, sets the standards for vehicle security, among other things.

Thatcham Trackers, therefore, adhere to a set of stringent criteria to ensure their effectiveness in deterring theft and aiding in the recovery of stolen vehicles.

How Thatcham Trackers Work

Most Thatcham trackers operate on a combination of GPS (Global Positioning System) and GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) technology, whilst others also incorporate VHF, GLONASS and MESH.

The GPS component allows for accurate location tracking, while the GSM technology enables communication between the tracker and a monitoring centre. This real-time connectivity ensures that the vehicle’s location is constantly updated and can be monitored remotely, either by the user or a dedicated control centre operated by tracking system manufacturers.

In the event of a theft, the Thatcham Tracker becomes an invaluable tool for recovery.

Once the theft is reported to the monitoring centre, they can track the vehicle’s movements and liaise with the Police to facilitate a swift recovery. The speed and accuracy of Thatcham Trackers make them a formidable deterrent against thieves.

Thatcham Tracker Categories

Thatcham Research categorises vehicle tracking systems into various classes, each denoting a specific level of security and functionality.

Whilst the designations have changed over the years, and continue to evolve, the current categories are as follows:

1. Thatcham Category S7: This category covers basic vehicle tracking systems with GPS functionality. While providing location tracking, they may lack additional features found in higher categories.
2. Thatcham Category S5: These trackers offer enhanced security features, including motion sensing and automatic driver recognition. They are often equipped with smartphone apps for remote monitoring and control.
3. Thatcham Category S5 Plus: The highest level of tracking system, S5 Plus includes all the features of the S5 but with the added capability of remote engine immobilisation. This feature allows the monitoring centre to prevent the vehicle from even starting, increasing the chances of recovery.

Why Thatcham Trackers Matter

1. Insurance Approval: Many insurance providers in the UK require vehicles to have Thatcham-approved security systems for coverage. Installing a Thatcham Tracker can lead to lower insurance premiums as it significantly reduces the risk of theft and aids in quick recovery.
2. Proactive Security Measures: Thatcham Trackers offer more than just location tracking. With features like automatic driver recognition and remote engine immobilisation, they actively deter thieves and protect vehicles even when the owner is not present.
3. Quick Recovery: In the unfortunate event of a theft, the real-time tracking capabilities of Thatcham Trackers greatly enhance the chances of a swift recovery. This not only minimises the financial loss for the owner but also aids law enforcement in apprehending criminals.

Choosing the Right Thatcham Tracker

Selecting the right Thatcham Tracker for your vehicle involves considering factors such as:

⚬ Your budget

⚬ The level of security required, and

⚬ Any additional features that may be beneficial.

Consulting with an experienced car security professional like the team here at Infiniti can help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.

In the face of rising car theft rates, the Thatcham Tracker has emerged as a powerful ally for vehicle owners in the UK.

Combining cutting-edge technology with stringent security standards, the Thatcham trackers we sell all offer a comprehensive solution to the ever-present threat of theft. As the automotive industry continues to innovate, investing in a Thatcham Tracker is a proactive step toward safeguarding your vehicle and ensuring peace of mind on the road.

If you want to protect your car, bike, truck or motorhome, we have a tracking system that will be perfect for you. To find out more please call our team who are available from 9 am – 6 pm, Monday to Friday on 0330 043 3993 and we’d be delighted to help.