THE increasing popularity of car leasing, car rental and mobility solutions is prompting a new wave of development in keyless entry systems.

The new wireless technologies to emerge include Bluetooth low energy (BLE), and biometrics and near-field communication (NFC) for the automotive industry.

This follows saturation of the current radio frequency technology.

These new advanced access technologies will allow specialist companies, such as cybersecurity enterprises, telematics providers and mobile application developers to develop wireless access, according to a report by Frost & Sullivan.

Mobility research analyst Meena Subramanian said: “Advanced biometric technologies such as face, voice and iris recognition are highly accurate and frictionless, encouraging automotive OEMs to make them an integral authentication layer.

“Traditional keys will exist along with smartphone-based access becoming secondary option as smart devices face threats such as battery dependency, accuracy and security risks.”

Automotive OEMs are currently working  on resolving security-related challenges so will be cautious about incorporating new technologies. For instance, they have been using standardised frequencies for communication as well as encryption and rotating codes for access.

“In the case of virtual keys, they are focusing on cybersecurity for connected devices and placing restrictions on the number of features offered remotely.”

Subramanian added: “OEMs that are keen to offer advanced access systems are increasingly partnering with technology companies, as this market transformation calls for industry consolidation.

“Overall, advanced passive start and entry system (PASE) structures that include personalisation features, such as steering wheel and tuner adjustments, smartphone-based access and frictionless access, will be the future of vehicle access systems.”