UK businesses suffer millions of pounds in losses because of vehicle theft every year, with authorities estimating that around 200,000 cars are stolen across Britain annually. Vehicle theft also leads to substantial productivity losses and business interruptions that cost millions in revenue losses and vehicle replacement. Many companies also see an increase in their insurance premiums after submitting vehicle theft claims.
And it’s not just businesses who are suffering. Many people are seeing their personal vehicles stolen, with a rise in vehicle thefts since 2021.
Fortunately, using Thatcham insurance-approved trackers can help prevent all these problems – they keep your vehicle safe from theft, help with easier vehicle recovery and can also see vehicle owners enjoy reduced insurance premiums.
In this article, we’ll look at the two Thatcham category S5 vehicle trackers – the Thatcham S5 and Thatcham S5 Plus (with remote immobilisation). We will compare what these two trackers offer, how they differ and how to choose the tracker that best fits your vehicle security needs.
Why Choose a Thatcham Tracker?
Many UK insurance firms will not offer you vehicle cover if you do not have a Thatcham-approved car tracker installed, especially when you own a high-value vehicle.
Thatcham is known for its rigorous testing with all its approved vehicle trackers. Known as the gold standard for vehicle security in the UK, this tracking device ensures you have a reliable and effective way to protect your car from theft and unauthorised access.
Therefore, a Thatcham-approved vehicle tracker carries with it a seal of high-quality performance and reliability. Many insurance providers may also offer you reduced car insurance premiums when installing Thatcham trackers.
Additionally, installing a non-insurance-approved vehicle tracker may see your vehicle cover application declined. Your insurance firm can also refuse your claim if your vehicle gets stolen.
Comparing the S5 and S5 Plus
Common features
The Thatcham S5 and Thatcham S5 plus have the following features in common:
- – 24/7 monitoring: Using either of these two tracking systems means your vehicle is tracked on a 24/7 basis by a professional monitoring centre. Continuously monitoring your vehicle ensures that if it’s tampered with or stolen, police get notified faster, leading to quicker vehicle recovery.
- – GPS tracking: Both S5 trackers use GPS technology to track your vehicle. The devices send real-time location data to a secure operating centre to help track and monitor your vehicle’s movements.
- – Automatic driver recognition: Both of these Thatcham S5 tracker systems use automatic driver recognition. Every time an employee enters the vehicle with their driver ID tag, they get recognised as the authorised driver. When somebody operates the vehicle without the authorised ID fob, this automatically sends an alert to the owner.
- – Theft alerts and notifications: These trackers send immediate notifications in the event of vehicle theft. These notifications help you inform the police of the crime and ensure that your car is retrieved quickly.
- – Secure web portal and mobile app: Vehicle owners or fleet managers can easily see updated real-time vehicle data and tracking information online or via a smartphone app.
Unique features
The main way in which the S5 Plus differs from the S5 is the driver ID immobilisation feature. In short, each authorised driver is issued a unique fob which allows them to start the vehicle. Anyone attempting to operate the vehicle without a valid driver ID will not be able to switch on the engine, which makes it far more difficult for thieves to steal your vehicle.
Cost Considerations
Installation and Subscription Costs
Your installation and subscription costs will differ depending on which of these S5 trackers you install.
The overall price will also depend on your vehicle’s make and model as well as the additional services you sign up for with your provider.
The S5 plus immobilisation tracker, in general, is more expensive to purchase, install and maintain because of its additional immobilisation feature.
Which Tracker is Right for Your Fleet?
Choosing the category of S5 car tracker that best suits your vehicle-specific needs depends on the following:
Security needs
If your vehicles are lower in value, it may be best to opt for the Thatcham S5 tracker which is cheaper overall.
On the other hand, if you are looking to boost the security of high-value vehicles, opt for the S5 plus immobilisation tracker. A high-value vehicle is a prized catch for many vehicle thieves, making these vehicles prone to getting stolen or hijacked. The device’s immobilisation feature makes it far less likely that thieves will be able to make off with it.
Cost vs. Benefits
Another important consideration is to look at what you will spend on an S5 or S5 Plus tracker versus what benefits you’ll enjoy.
If keeping costs low is a priority, opt for the more affordable Thatcham S5 tracker. You will still get the added benefit of knowing as soon as the car is started without a recognised driver present.
If you’re looking for a device that offers top-notch security – including driver ID immobilisation – choose the S5 plus. While this device is more costly, you get the peace of mind that a thief will not be able to drive your vehicle.
S5 Plus vs. S5: Conclusion
In summary, installing Thatcham-approved vehicle trackers is an effective way to protect you from vehicle theft and reduce your insurance premiums.
Choosing between either the Thatcham S5 or S5 Plus with immobilisation is half the battle won. Both these S5 tracker systems offer excellent vehicle safety and use automatic driver recognition for added security. These trackers also allow for real-time location tracking and quicker recovery of a stolen vehicle.
Contact Crystal Ball today to let us help you choose the S5 car tracker that best fits your fleet and vehicle security needs Or, request a demo to see how these high-quality Thatcham-approved trackers can keep your fleet vehicles safe.