Car Insurance
Boost for Bristol drivers
Wed, 21 Sep 2005
Bristol drivers are hoping for a reduction in car thefts, and their car insurance premiums, following a new anti-car crime drive by the local police.
And whilst the latest campaign has all the traditional features of encouraging motorists to keep their cars locked at all times and keep valuables out of sight there is a surprise element – a capturing car.
Avon and Somerset Police are set to deploy a number of Covert Capture cars in known vehicle crime hotspots. If a thief breaks into these cars, the car will lock automatically, send a signal to a nearby police unit and inform the criminal that police are on the way to arrest them.
The cars feature state-of-the-art technology including remote engine imobilisers and the latest in GPS tracking software.
Stephen Foster, managing director of Inova Solutions which developed the car said. “The Covert Capture car uses the same satellite tracking technology that is incorporated in our vehicle usage management systems. These are used by commercial vehicle fleets as well as car rental firms to keep track of who is driving which vehicle when, where and how. We are pleased to be using our technology to fight car crime and hope other police forces will follow Avon and Somerset’s inspired lead.”
Councillor Gary Hopkins, chair of the Safer Bristol Partnership, said: “This is exactly the sort of innovative approach to tackling crime which the Safer Bristol Partnership is constantly seeking to adopt.
“Experience in Bath and elsewhere has shown that the covert capture car can make a major impact on car crime. Its deployment in Bristol sends a clear message to car thieves – don’t come to Bristol; you won’t get away with it. It also sends an important message of public reassurance to people living and working in Bristol.”
© Adfero Ltd
