New UK research carried out by What Car? Magazine found that some of the latest and most popular car models with keyless entry systems can be broken into in just seconds. Car security experts working with What Car? were able to steal the new DS3 Crossback in just 10 seconds, while popular Discovery Sport could be driven away in 30 seconds.

Car theft rates continue to be high across the country, both North and South. Vehicles fitted with keyless entry and start systems are being targeted by thieves. Criminals using specialist tools can capture a key’s signal and relay it to another device next to the car, allowing them to enter and start the vehicle. In response, some manufacturers are introducing keyless technology that can deactivate the signal from the car key, preventing thieves from snatching the signal.

Audi, BMW, Ford and Mercedes-Benz, have introduced motion detection technology inside their car keys. If the key is left untouched, it stops emitting a signal. However, if the key is in a pocket or handbag, and the owner is walking around, the car can still be vulnerable.

Jaguar Land Rover is introducing ultra-wide-band radio technology, which transmits a wide range of signals from the key, meaning thieves can’t lock onto the signal and fool the vehicle.

SAIC Motor unveils MG brand 4x4 pickup

There is a new MG brand 4x4 pick-up from SAIC, the company that produces the LDV range of vans.

The latest 4x4 pickup to hit the market is an MG badged Extender model produced by the Chinese brand SAIC Motor, which also produces the brand of vans sold in Ireland by the Harris Group. The new MG Extender pickup will be built in Thailand by SAIC and is currently sold there exclusively.

The MG pickup is powered by a 2l diesel-turbo engine developed by General Motors and SAIC. It replaces a larger 2.8l engine made by Italy’s VM Motori that was previously used in SAIC vans in the past. The single-turbo engine produces 161bhp at 4,000rpm and 375Nm of torque from 1,500-2,400rpm. Transmission choices include six-speed manual and automatic driving, rear wheels or all four. This pickup may well appear on the UK and Irish markets in the coming year.

Hyundai develops new solar roof charging system

Hyundai claims to have developed a new eco-friendly solar roof system that charges an electric vehicle’s battery using solar panels even while driving. Hyundai Motor’s solar roof charging system has been fitted to the new Sonata Hybrid.

The solar roof system claims to improved fuel efficiency while preventing battery discharge and reducing CO2 emissions. With the technology, Hyundai claims that 30 to 60 per cent of a car’s battery can be charged via solar energy. Hyundai aims to roll out the technology to other vehicles across its range.

The solar roof system includes a structure of silicon solar panels that are mounted on the car’s roof. Being able to charge even while driving, the solar roof system can charge 30 to 60 per cent of the battery per day. With 6 hours of daily charging, Hyundai claims that the system is expected to increase drivers’ travel distance by an extra 1,300 km annually. Hyundai currently has no plans to sell the new Sonata Hybrid on the European market.