Trystan Casey
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular due to their environmentally-friendly nature and cost savings. While not all EVs have autopilot, many come with Level 3 driving assistance, meaning they can steer, accelerate and brake automatically within their lanes. This advanced technology has made EVs a target for theft, with over 850,000 vehicles stolen in the United States in 2024 alone. To prevent EV theft, various measures can be taken, such as installing anti-theft devices, using visible and audible deterrents, and employing vehicle recovery systems. Additionally, EV owners should be cautious when charging in public areas and consider securing their charging cables with padlocks or built-in locking mechanisms to deter cable theft.
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What You'll Learn
Using audible and visible devices
Audible and visible devices are a highly effective way to deter car thieves. These devices bring attention to an unauthorized attempt to steal or enter a vehicle, alerting the car owner and nearby individuals and discouraging the thief from continuing their actions.
Visible devices such as steering wheel locks, steering column collars, and theft-deterrent decals act as a clear warning to potential thieves that your car is well-protected. The bright colours and imposing appearance of a steering wheel lock, for instance, can be enough to discourage thieves from targeting your vehicle. Similarly, theft-deterrent decals and stickers can warn thieves of the presence of an alarm or other anti-theft devices.
Audible devices like car alarms are also highly effective. These alarms are typically equipped with motion, impact, or vibration sensors, which, when activated, trigger a loud, high-pitched siren. The sensitive and responsive nature of car alarms makes them an excellent tool for detecting and preventing theft. The volume and duration of the alarm can often be adjusted to meet the owner's preferences.
In addition to these, other visible and audible devices can be used in conjunction for greater effectiveness. For example, installing motion detection lights can startle a would-be thief and alert those nearby. A combination of visible and audible devices can increase the difficulty for thieves and make your car seem like more trouble than it's worth.
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Installing dashcams
Dashcams are an effective way to prevent the theft of autopilot electric vehicles. Firstly, they act as a visual deterrent, as thieves are less likely to target a vehicle with a visible dashcam. Secondly, if a thief does attempt to steal the vehicle, the dashcam will record their actions, providing valuable evidence for the police and increasing the chances of recovering the stolen vehicle.
When installing a dashcam, it is essential to consider the placement and type of dashcam to maximize its theft-deterrent capabilities. A smaller and inconspicuous dashcam, such as the VIOFO A119 Mini 2 or Thinkware F70 Pro, can blend seamlessly into the vehicle's interior without attracting unwanted attention. However, it should still be placed in a visible location to maximize its deterrent effect.
To ensure continuous recording, it is recommended to invest in a dashcam with a parking mode feature. This allows the dashcam to keep recording even when the vehicle's engine is turned off, providing 24-hour protection. Dashcams with motion-sensing security, such as the Cobra SC series, can detect vibrations or sudden changes in direction and start recording when a thief attempts to break in.
Additionally, consider a cloud-connected dashcam, such as those offered by BlackVue and Thinkware. These dashcams offer remote viewing and real-time alerts in case of motion or impact detection. This allows you to access the dashcam footage from anywhere via a smartphone app or web browser and take immediate action in the event of a theft attempt.
To reduce the risk of theft, it is crucial to properly secure the dashcam and its cords. If your dashcam has an adhesive mount, be aware that repeatedly pulling it off can cause the adhesive to lose its grip. Some dashcams use a magnetic connection, allowing for easy detachment and secure storage. Hiding the dashcam cords can also make the camera less appealing to thieves.
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Charging vehicles in a garage
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular due to their environmentally friendly nature and cost savings. However, with the rise in EVs, there has been a corresponding increase in the theft of charging cables from public charging stations and home EV charge points. This issue is concerning for EV owners as replacing stolen cables is costly and disruptive to their ability to charge their vehicles.
To prevent EV cable theft, it is recommended to charge your vehicle in a garage, as this keeps the car and cable out of sight from potential thieves. If you do not have a garage, charging your EV away from street view and in a well-lit area can also help to deter thieves. Installing CCTV provides an extra layer of protection, as it can deter thieves from targeting your cable. When using public charging stations, it is advisable to remain near or inside your car instead of leaving it unattended. This allows you to keep a watchful eye on both the vehicle and the cable.
There are also smart electric vehicle chargers with theft-deterrent features. For example, the Easee One allows you to lock your cable into place, and the MyEnergi Zappi has a built-in PIN code system to lock and unlock the charger. Most socketed (untethered) electric vehicle chargers have protective smart features, and you can always remove your cable and keep it elsewhere, such as in your car boot or garage, to hide it from view.
Additionally, dashcams can deter potential thieves and provide valuable evidence to the police if a theft occurs. While audible and visible devices, such as horn alarms and steering-wheel locks, can also help prevent vehicle theft, they may be less effective in preventing EV cable theft specifically.
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Using smart chargers
Electric vehicles (EVs) are increasingly common, and with them, the problem of EV charger theft. The cables contain valuable copper wire, which thieves can sell for scrap. While EV theft is not a widespread issue, the advancement of technology has made it a potential concern for the future. To prevent the theft of autopilot electric vehicles, one can employ smart chargers, which offer several security benefits.
Smart chargers often have theft-deterrent features. For instance, the Easee One allows users to lock their socketed cable into place with a cable lock, giving it the security of a tethered charger. It can be kept in an 'Always Locked' state, only changeable via the app. The MyEnergi Zappi uses a built-in PIN code system to lock and unlock the charger.
Tethered chargers, where the cable is permanently attached to the charger, are another way to secure your EV. This makes it more difficult for thieves to remove. Several home EV chargers are socketed models with a cable lock feature, allowing users to lock the cable with an app. This gives the security benefits of a tethered model while providing the flexibility of an untethered one.
Additionally, there are aftermarket cable locking devices, such as loop-ended cord locks, which can attach the cable to solid surfaces. Padlocks can also be used to secure the cable to fences, wheels, or installed cable tethers. These simple measures can significantly increase the safety of your EV charging setup.
While smart chargers are an effective deterrent, other precautions should also be taken. Charging in secure locations, such as a garage, away from street view, or in well-lit areas, reduces the risk of theft. Installing CCTV or a dashcam can also help prevent theft or aid in catching the perpetrators. Finally, keeping your vehicle locked, using steering wheel locks, theft-deterrent decals, flashing lights, and window etching are all ways to make your EV less appealing to potential thieves.
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Implementing vehicle recovery systems
There are various types of vehicle recovery systems available, each utilising different technologies to track and locate vehicles. One of the most common technologies used is Global Positioning System (GPS) technology. GPS tracking software provides precise location data in real time, allowing you to keep a constant eye on your vehicles. These GPS tracking devices are compact, reliable, and easy to install, and they can be supplemented with diagnostic information about the vehicle. Radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags are another type of technology used in vehicle recovery systems. These small devices can be installed anywhere on a vehicle and work similarly to GPS systems, using satellite communication to track and locate stolen vehicles, even in remote areas.
When choosing a vehicle recovery system, it is important to first define your specific needs and goals. Do you require a standalone recovery device, or do you want a comprehensive solution that promotes driver and vehicle safety? By setting clear objectives, you can narrow down the options and select the system that best aligns with your requirements. It is also essential to engage your team in the process, providing them with training on the chosen system and explaining the benefits of installing these devices.
In addition to GPS and RFID technologies, some vehicle recovery systems use cellular network technology to transmit and monitor a vehicle's locational data. These systems often include a user interface, such as an app or website, that allows users to track their vehicles in real time. Furthermore, some providers offer a 24/7 recovery hotline and trained recovery specialists who can assist in collaborating with local law enforcement to initiate the recovery process. This combination of technology and human support has resulted in impressive recovery rates of up to 94%.
Vehicle recovery systems are an effective tool for fleet managers and vehicle owners, providing peace of mind and a sense of security. By implementing these systems, you can quickly locate and take action to recover your vehicles, minimising the time and damage associated with theft. With the rising cases of vehicle theft, taking proactive measures to protect your assets is more important than ever.
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Frequently asked questions
In 2024, more than 850,000 vehicles were stolen in the United States, costing vehicle owners over $8 billion. While electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular, petrol and diesel cars are still predominant in the market.
Here are some tips to prevent EV theft:
- Take your vehicle's key with you and do not leave it in or on your vehicle.
- Close and lock all windows and doors when you park.
- Park in well-lit areas.
- Do not leave valuables in your vehicle, especially not in view from outside the vehicle.
- Install audible and visible theft-deterrent devices such as a horn alarm, steering-wheel locks, flashing lights, and window etching.
To prevent the theft of your EV charging cable, try the following:
- Charge your vehicle at home or in a garage, away from public view.
- Install dashcams and CCTV to deter thieves and provide evidence to the police.
- Use a padlock to secure your charging cable.
- Use a smart EV charger with theft-deterrent features such as a cable lock or a PIN code system.
While there are no known methods to prevent the theft of autopilot electric vehicles specifically, the preventative measures above can be applied to any electric vehicle, regardless of its autopilot capabilities.
