Electric vehicles (EVs) are, slowly but surely, gaining in popularity as people across the country look for ways to not only reduce their carbon emissions but also save money on running costs.

The downside of seeing more EVs on the road unfortunately comes with the steadily increasing car theft figures. The higher than average value of electric cars, along with the fact that most of them do not require a traditional key to start their engines, makes them more attractive to thieves.

It stands to reason that electric cars are no different from those with traditional petrol or diesel engines in that it is the owner’s responsibility to take all possible steps to protect their vehicle. This means utilising as many security devices as possible within budget limitations. Along with the traditional mechanical devices such as steering locks and wheel clamps, the new generation of car trackers plus alarm/immobilisers offer the highest level of protection against car theft for your EV.

Some trackers are relatively simple to install but to ensure any tracker works correctly and to be sure of getting the best tracking device for your requirements and your budget, you should consider getting help from a company specialising in the very latest car tracking technology. This way, you will know you are getting the best help available to protect your car.

After all, there are several vulnerabilities to consider if you are looking to get an EV or if you already own one.

Keyless Entry Vulnerabilities

Most EVs have keyless entry systems, which are susceptible to hacking or relay attacks by thieves using a device to intercept the signal from a nearby key fob. This can be counteracted by keeping your key fob in a Faraday pouch to jam the signal.

Software and Cybersecurity Risks

Modern cars are indeed ‘computers on wheels,’ and as such are vulnerable to remote control and monitoring through mobile apps which could make them a target for hackers.

Standardised Security Measures Not Yet Up to Speed

EV manufacturers are belatedly working to bring their in-car security systems up to the same standards as traditional cars. Improvements in keyless entry systems are being rolled out as the EV industry continues to evolve. However, there can be inconsistencies in the level of protection offered with different models.

The Rise of the Metal Thieves

Metal theft has always been an issue in the UK, but now with more drivers making the switch from combustion engines to electric ones, a new problem has arisen and that is the theft of car charging cables.

As more and more EV owners leave their car charging overnight outside, this presents an easy target for a metal thief. Not only this, the thief knows he can sell your charging cable quite easily – through social media or Facebook – or to dodgy scrap dealers (they still exist despite tighter regulation) and he can probably get something in the region of £200 per cable. Some electric vehicles are equipped with a system which locks the charger cable in place during charging, but don’t assume these are foolproof.

There are ways you can protect your charging cable including padlocking it to the vehicle while in use and locking it securely away when not in use. Take a look at how public chargers are protected and adapt it to your situation.

Charging cables, as with electric cars themselves, are very expensive to replace so you should do all you can to prevent car theft and cable theft.

If the worst should happen and your EV goes missing, consider that a car tracker will help you recover your vehicle pretty quickly, more than likely along with the cable.