Enhanced security measures implemented to tackle Range Rover thefts

author: FutureCar Staff    

Jaguar Land Rover has announced that it has invested over £10 million in developing and implementing security upgrades to reduce the risk of Range Rovers being stolen. The company aims to combat key cloning, keyless car theft, and organized criminals targeting their high-value vehicles for parts or resale abroad. Recent data from the DVLA revealed that the Range Rover was the second most stolen car in 2022, with a 47% increase in the number of stolen vehicles compared to the previous year, reaching a total of 5,533 stolen Range Rovers.

JLR states that vehicles manufactured from 2022 onwards are built on their most advanced electrical architecture, incorporating the latest security features. As a result, only 0.07% of new Range Rovers and new Range Rover Sports on the road since January 2022 have been stolen, while only 0.3% of new Defenders have been affected since 2020.

The carmaker acknowledges the challenges it faces in delivering an ultra-luxury experience to Range Rover customers. The vulnerability to theft by organized criminal gangs has been a significant issue, as well as recent instances where customers' cars had to wait for repairs due to a parts distribution crisis.

However, the latest security and technology can also be applied to previous generation vehicles, including those that are out of warranty, ensuring that they receive the same level of protection as current models.

Jaguar Land Rover has already provided security updates to over 65,000 eligible vehicles from 2018 models onwards through their dealer network. The company is actively reaching out to customers, urging owners of Defender, Discovery, Range Rover, and Jaguar cars built since 2018 to take advantage of these free security updates.

Police forces continue to advise Land Rover and Range Rover owners to install mechanical security devices such as pedal locks, wheel clamps, and steering wheel locks to enhance theft deterrence.

JLR recommends that owners utilize all available measures to protect their vehicles, including the Jaguar and Land Rover 'Remote' apps. These connected services offer a range of security features such as vehicle lock reminders and 'Guardian Mode,' which monitors the vehicle and sends an alert in case of unauthorized interaction.

Patrick McGillycuddy, Managing Director of JLR UK, emphasized the company's commitment to addressing vehicle theft and its impact on the ownership experience for clients. He stated that JLR will continue to collaborate with law enforcement and key partners to develop and deploy effective anti-theft measures.

JLR strongly advises their clients to follow these security steps:

FutureCar Staff