Skip advert
Advertisement

Car Tech A to Z: K is for keys

The letter K in our A to Z of car tech series takes a look at the humble car key

The technology contained within the modern motor car can be both fascinating and slightly baffling. Most such technology exists to make our cars safer, more efficient and just better than ever to drive but some of it can be quite confusing for the average motorist. In this A to Z series we will attempt to unravel the mystery of technology that is the modern motor car. This week, we’re visiting the letter K…

Advertisement - Article continues below

K is for…Keys. Car keys used to be simple things that you inserted into a lock to open a door, and then inserted again into a slot somewhere on the dashboard to twist and fire up the engine. But not any more.

Nowadays most car keys contain batteries and sensors and sophisticated coding to allow keyless entry and even keyless start up, where the vehicle sensors detect that the key is present and allow the engine to be started by the simple press of a button.

Some manufacturers even off wristband key options to allow drivers to go swimming or even skydiving while keeping their car key with them. Again the system works by detection; you leave the main key inside the car and when you walk away with the wristband on the car locks automatically – and only when you return and wave the wristband at the door handle does it unlock.

Clever technology that will become increasingly popular within the automotive industry in years to come.

Next, the letter L…

A-Z of car tech
Skip advert
Advertisement
Continue Reading
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

BMW X3 vs Lexus NX: which premium mid-size SUV takes top honours?
BMW X3 and Lexus NX - front tracking

BMW X3 vs Lexus NX: which premium mid-size SUV takes top honours?

BMW’s much-lauded new X3 is one of the best luxury compact SUVs on the market – but is it good enough to topple the cheaper hybrid-powered Lexus NX 35…
Car group tests
8 Feb 2025
Car Deal of the Day: handsome, sporty Mazda CX-5 dips under £250 per month
Mazda CX-5

Car Deal of the Day: handsome, sporty Mazda CX-5 dips under £250 per month

The Mazda CX-5 is fun to drive, features a driver-focused, premium interior and is our Deal of the Day for 9 February
News
9 Feb 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Bag one of the last Jaguar I-Pace electric SUVs for under £400 a month
Jaguar I-Pace - front cornering

Car Deal of the Day: Bag one of the last Jaguar I-Pace electric SUVs for under £400 a month

The I-Pace shows how good an electric Jag can be. It’s our Deal of the Day for 7 February
News
7 Feb 2025

Find a car with the experts