Ford Explores New Anti-Theft Technology with Vehicle Tracking Patent
Ford Explores New Anti-Theft Technology with Vehicle Tracking Patent
Posted on January 28, 2025
In response to the growing issue of vehicle theft, Ford Motor Company has introduced a patent for an innovative vehicle tracking system. Filed on May 15, 2023, and published on November 21, 2024, under serial number 0385013, this patent outlines a solution designed to locate vehicles even if traditional tracking systems have been disabled. This development adds to Ford's expanding portfolio of anti-theft technologies aimed at enhancing vehicle security and recovery capabilities.
Ford’s proposed system builds on existing vehicle tracking features found in modern vehicles. These tools, while effective, have become targets for sophisticated thieves who disable tracking systems, clone key fobs, or bypass authentication methods. The newly patented technology addresses this vulnerability by activating an alternative tracking system if the primary long-range tracking fails. This innovation ensures that stolen vehicles remain traceable even when standard security measures are compromised.
A standout feature of the system is its reliance on crowdsourcing. Using a tag transceiver with a wireless communication range of under 100 meters, the system leverages nearby connected devices to maintain tracking. This short-range communication network allows the vehicle to transmit its location discreetly, even if its primary tracking system is non-functional. Such technology has the potential to improve recovery rates for stolen vehicles and provide peace of mind to owners.
This patent is part of Ford’s broader efforts to combat theft, joining previous concepts such as biometric authorization, neighboring vehicle security systems, and theft-deterrence measures like random vehicle movement and limited functionality systems. While the tracking system is still in the conceptual stage, it represents Ford's commitment to advancing vehicle security in response to evolving theft techniques. Customers can look forward to a future where their vehicles are equipped with smarter, more resilient anti-theft features.