Jan/Feb 2005

Thales has gained Thatcham 5 accreditation for its vehicle theft detection and recovery systems. Systems meeting Category 5 requirements use telematics to detect unauthorised vehicle movement, alert vehicle owners and guide police to vehicle recovery. The Category 5 classification (or "CAT 5", as it is known) is a new rating developed by the Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre in association with insurers and the Association of Chief Police Officers, and was launched last year.

Thales says its systems have been tested rigorously to ensure they meet the new standard, particularly in regard to their ability to assist actively in the recovery of stolen vehicles. Its secure operations centre informs the vehicle owner of unauthorised movements, and can liaise with police to facilitate fast vehicle recovery. In some cases CAT 5 accreditation leads to a reduction in insurance premiums.

Thales says this type of system is becoming increasingly necessary to address the growth in key thefts from domestic burglary and aggressive car crime.