During recent years, technological advancements in the automotive industry are quite phenomenal; one of the most exciting areas of innovation, however, lies in the technology of a keyless vehicle-access control system that allows the locking, starting, and running of vehicles without an actual physical key, bringing major convenience, security, and innovation. Premium and mass-market vehicles alike have witnessed increased adoption of keyless entry systems, and most modern cars feature keyless entry as a standard feature. With an emphasis on safety, convenience, and technological integration, the market for keyless vehicle-access control systems is bound to explode in the next decade, with the technology poised to undergo radical changes. This blog identifies major trends, drivers, innovations, and opportunities in the global keyless vehicle-access control system market, in detail, about what to expect by 2035.
Several other key trends influence the growing nature of this vehicle-access control market, while continuously evolving; several are seen for keyless: as vehicle development moves along into becoming highly connected, more automatic, and, most of all, secured access control technology also is needed by people in society. These have been significant and below them in the article discussed.
While traditional keyless entry systems rely on fobs or cards to unlock vehicles, biometric authentication and smartphone-based systems are increasingly being used. Biometrics, including fingerprint scanning, facial recognition, and iris scanning, provide a highly secure and personalized access experience. This trend reflects the growing consumer demand for enhanced security features that go beyond the limitations of traditional physical keys or fobs.
Access control systems using smartphones are also on the rise because consumers are increasingly adopting their smartphones as a primary tool for managing their lives. The automobile industry has combined keyless entry with smartphone applications, so users can unlock, start, and monitor their vehicles through Bluetooth or Near-Field Communication technologies. This allows greater convenience and security because the smartphone is the digital key, which can be securely paired with the vehicle.
Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication will be a critical focus of connected cars in the future, which enables the communication of vehicles with other vehicles, infrastructure, and cloud systems. As the maturity of the V2X communication standard evolves, keyless access systems will likely integrate with V2X for even more seamless and secure access control.
The features could include geofencing, which would enable the vehicle to automatically detect when an authorized person is within a specified proximity and unlocks the car. In addition, V2X may add up to creating a more intelligent environment for the vehicle by interacting with access control that ties into traffic management systems, roadside infrastructure, or cloud-based services in order to add more security and personalization.
As cyber threats and vehicle theft become more complex, automakers are putting emphasis on the betterment of the security of the keyless entry system. Keyless entry systems, although easy to use, have weaknesses that are mostly found in the form of relay attacks, where hackers can extend the range of a key fob to unlock the vehicle remotely.
To counter these threats, automobile companies are developing keyless systems with advanced encryption protocols, anti-hacking technologies, and secure communication channels. Some of the features that have been implemented to provide an added layer of security include rolling codes, where the encryption key changes with each use, and multi-factor authentication (such as combining biometrics with a fob or smartphone).
Touchless access is another emerging trend in the keyless vehicle-access control system market. This technology enables vehicle owners to unlock and start their cars simply by approaching the vehicle with their fob or smartphone, eliminating the need for physical contact with any part of the vehicle. Touchless technology offers added convenience, especially in situations where the driver’s hands may be full, such as carrying groceries or other items.
This trend is part of a broader movement toward touchless systems in other industries as well, including contactless payment and security access, further accelerating its adoption in automotive applications. With increased focus on hygiene and convenience, touchless access systems will continue to grow in popularity.
Looking toward 2035, the keyless vehicle-access control system market will be shaped by a combination of advancements in technology, consumer preferences, and the growing need for secure and seamless access. Below are several key opportunities that will drive market growth and innovation in the coming years.
As the automotive industry continues its shift toward autonomous driving and shared mobility, keyless entry systems will play an essential role in supporting these changes. In autonomous vehicles, there may be no traditional driver’s seat, and passengers will need secure and flexible access to the vehicle. Keyless access systems will be designed to recognize authorized users, enabling seamless entry and personalized settings for each passenger, such as seat positions, climate control preferences, and entertainment options.
Shared mobility services, such as car-sharing and ride-hailing, will also require secure and convenient keyless access systems. These services are growing rapidly, particularly in urban areas where consumers prefer not to own vehicles. Keyless vehicle-access systems can facilitate the efficient sharing of vehicles between users, with digital keys or smartphone applications granting access based on real-time booking schedules. This convenience will likely drive demand for more advanced, secure, and flexible keyless systems.
As smart homes become more popular, the integration of keyless vehicle-access control systems with other Internet of Things (IoT) devices will create new opportunities. Consumers are increasingly looking for interconnected experiences, where their vehicles, homes, and personal devices work together seamlessly.
By 2035, car manufacturers will likely integrate keyless entry systems with smart home devices. For example, a vehicle could be programmed to automatically unlock and adjust settings when the driver approaches their home, or even allow users to open their garage door when the car arrives. This convergence of IoT technologies will enhance convenience, security, and the overall user experience, driving the demand for advanced keyless systems that can interact with a variety of other devices.
The emergence of subscription-based services in the automotive industry is expected to create new opportunities for keyless vehicle-access systems. Similar to how consumers now subscribe to streaming services, automakers may offer software-driven features, including keyless entry, as part of a subscription model.
This “Software-as-a-Service” (SaaS) model can provide consumers with access to advanced features, such as remote vehicle management, advanced authentication, or temporary digital keys that can be shared with others. This could be particularly valuable for vehicle owners who share their cars with family members, friends, or even short-term renters. Subscription models could also provide an avenue for automakers to continuously improve and upgrade the security features of keyless access systems via over-the-air software updates.
Several factors are driving the growth of the keyless vehicle-access control system market, from consumer demand for convenience to the increasing focus on security. These drivers highlight the growing importance of keyless entry in the automotive sector.
Consumers today are increasingly seeking convenience in their daily lives, and the automotive sector is no exception. Keyless vehicle-access control systems offer a significant improvement in user experience by eliminating the need for traditional keys, providing easier access to vehicles, and enabling personalized experiences.
With the increasing demand for enhanced convenience, features like proximity sensors, smartphone integration, and biometric authentication will become even more important. These systems cater to the growing preference for smart and automated solutions, positioning the keyless vehicle-access market for continued growth.
As vehicle theft and cybercrime continue to rise, automakers are under increasing pressure to develop secure vehicle-access systems that protect consumers from unauthorized access and theft. The traditional car key has proven vulnerable to techniques like relay attacks, prompting the need for more secure solutions.
Keyless entry systems offer higher levels of security through encryption and authentication features, and this growing emphasis on vehicle security will continue to be a key driver of the market. Additionally, innovations in anti-theft technologies, such as biometric authentication and multi-factor security, will make keyless vehicle-access systems increasingly secure and attractive to consumers.
Governments and regulatory bodies are increasingly implementing stricter standards related to automotive safety and data privacy. As vehicles become more connected, regulatory frameworks will continue to evolve, particularly in areas like cybersecurity. The keyless vehicle-access control system market will be driven by the need for systems that comply with evolving security standards and ensure the protection of user data.
As more vehicles incorporate connected and automated features, the keyless vehicle-access market will see increased demand for systems that are both secure and fully integrated with other technologies in the car, such as advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and vehicle infotainment systems.
| Opportunities | Challenges |
|---|---|
| Expansion in autonomous and shared mobility | Security risks and potential for cyberattacks |
| Integration with smart home and IoT devices | High development and integration costs |
| Growth in biometric and smartphone-based access | Regulatory hurdles and compliance challenges |
Innovations in keyless vehicle-access control systems are continually reshaping the automotive industry. These innovations aim to enhance user convenience, improve security, and offer new functionalities that can transform the way consumers interact with their vehicles.
The growing concerns over security have led to innovations in encryption and multi-factor authentication. These systems ensure that only authorized users can access the vehicle, reducing the risk of theft or cyberattacks. Multi-factor authentication, which combines traditional keyless entry methods with biometric authentication or smartphone verification, is becoming increasingly popular in premium vehicles.
Remote vehicle management features, integrated with keyless access systems, allow vehicle owners to control their vehicles from afar. Key sharing systems are particularly useful for families or car-sharing services, where multiple users need to access a single vehicle. These systems can be managed through smartphone apps, offering a user-friendly interface for locking, unlocking, and monitoring the vehicle’s status remotely.
Continental AG, a global leader in automotive technology, has been actively developing and advancing keyless entry systems with cutting-edge security and convenience features. The company has focused on integrating advanced authentication features into its keyless entry systems, including facial recognition and biometric sensors. Continental has been working on biometric authentication technologies that enhance vehicle security by using facial recognition and fingerprint scanning to grant access, ensuring that only authorized individuals can unlock and start the vehicle.
Key Development:
Continental has developed its "Biometric Vehicle Access System," which combines both facial and fingerprint recognition for secure and convenient vehicle access. This system provides multi-factor authentication, a growing trend in the keyless vehicle-access market, which aims to prevent unauthorized access through relay attacks or hacking attempts. The system is particularly aimed at premium vehicles, offering consumers a highly personalized, secure, and user-friendly experience.
Continental’s continued focus on innovation in biometric systems underscores its commitment to providing the highest levels of security and convenience in keyless vehicle-access solutions, which is expected to drive the market forward in the coming years.
Valeo, a major player in the automotive technology market, has developed keyless entry systems that utilize smartphones as the primary means of access control. Valeo’s smartphone-based keyless entry solutions leverage Near-Field Communication (NFC) and Bluetooth technology to enable seamless unlocking, starting, and access to vehicle features using a smartphone. This solution not only enhances user convenience but also reduces the reliance on traditional key fobs, which may be lost or forgotten.
Key Development:
Valeo has introduced its “Valeo Keyless Entry” system, which allows drivers to unlock and start their vehicles using their smartphones. By using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology, the system enables proximity-based unlocking without requiring physical contact with the vehicle. This integration allows drivers to unlock and start their cars with a simple tap on their phones, even while their phones are in their pockets or bags.
The integration of smartphones with keyless entry systems also enhances user experience by enabling remote vehicle management, such as controlling the car’s climate system or checking the vehicle's location via smartphone apps. This trend of integrating smartphones with vehicles is expected to continue as consumers increasingly favor digital keys over traditional fobs.
Bosch, a global leader in automotive components and technologies, has been investing heavily in keyless entry systems with a focus on improving security and integrating digital key systems. Bosch’s digital key system allows users to control vehicle access via their smartphones and secure communication protocols. One of the key areas of focus for Bosch has been the implementation of strong encryption and security protocols to ensure that digital key systems are not vulnerable to hacking or relay attacks.
Key Development:
Bosch has partnered with several automakers to introduce its “Digital Key” system, which uses Bluetooth and ultra-wideband (UWB) technology to offer a secure, encrypted, and easy-to-use solution for keyless access. Unlike conventional keyless entry systems, Bosch's Digital Key system employs advanced encryption standards and multi-layered security measures, including biometric authentication for added protection.
One of the standout features of Bosch’s system is its ability to work with existing smartphone applications. The system can be linked to automaker-branded mobile apps, allowing customers to store and use their digital keys in the app. Furthermore, the system can be paired with advanced security features such as anti-theft protocols and geofencing, ensuring that the vehicle remains secure when out of range or when unauthorized attempts are detected.
Bosch’s commitment to enhancing security and user experience positions its digital key systems as a key offering in the rapidly evolving keyless vehicle-access control market.
Hyundai Mobis, a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Group, has been actively developing keyless access control systems tailored to the needs of autonomous vehicles. As the industry moves toward autonomous driving, the need for secure, contactless vehicle access will become even more crucial. Hyundai Mobis is at the forefront of developing keyless entry systems designed specifically for self-driving cars, where conventional physical access methods may not be applicable.
Key Development:
Hyundai Mobis has introduced a keyless vehicle access system designed for use with autonomous vehicles. This system uses a combination of smartphone-based access control, facial recognition, and geolocation technology to grant access to passengers in self-driving cars. The system ensures that the right passengers are granted access to the vehicle while preventing unauthorized use. For example, the system can authenticate passengers via facial recognition or geofencing, ensuring that only authorized individuals can enter and use the car.
With the rise of shared autonomous vehicles and the increasing use of ride-hailing services, Hyundai Mobis' focus on integrating advanced access technologies with autonomous vehicles will likely play a significant role in shaping the future of keyless access systems.
Jaguar Land Rover, the British automaker known for its luxury vehicles, has been innovating with gesture-based keyless access control systems that allow users to interact with their vehicles through simple hand gestures. This type of system is particularly appealing to consumers seeking a hands-free and intuitive approach to unlocking and starting their vehicles.
Key Development:
Jaguar Land Rover has developed a gesture-based system as part of its “Advanced Keyless Entry” feature, which allows drivers to unlock their cars with specific hand gestures. This system uses advanced sensors to detect hand movements and trigger vehicle access. For example, a driver can wave their hand near the vehicle’s handle or sensor to unlock the doors, making it ideal for situations where the driver has their hands full with bags or groceries.
The system integrates seamlessly with other advanced features such as smartphone connectivity, voice control, and proximity sensors, further enhancing the overall user experience. Jaguar Land Rover’s commitment to innovation in gesture control for vehicle access highlights its push toward providing luxury and convenience features that appeal to modern consumers.
Tesla, known for its electric vehicles and forward-thinking technology, has been a pioneer in implementing keyless entry systems that combine smartphone apps with Bluetooth technology. Tesla’s system allows users to unlock and start their vehicles using their smartphones, without needing to carry a physical key fob. Tesla’s system is designed to work seamlessly with the Tesla mobile app, giving users the ability to manage and control their vehicle remotely.
Key Development:
Tesla's “Smartphone Key” system is a major advancement in keyless vehicle-access control. The system works via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology, enabling vehicles to detect when an authorized smartphone is nearby and automatically unlock the car. The system is also integrated with Tesla’s mobile app, allowing users to lock, unlock, and start their vehicles remotely. Additionally, users can share digital keys with other people through the app, making it convenient for family members or friends to access the vehicle.
Tesla has continually improved its smartphone-based keyless entry system, ensuring it works flawlessly with their vehicles' advanced technologies. Tesla’s keyless entry system is also paired with enhanced security features, such as encryption and real-time tracking, making it one of the most secure keyless access systems in the market.
NXP Semiconductors, a global leader in automotive electronics, has been a key player in developing smart access technologies that utilize Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication. V2X communication enables vehicles to interact with other vehicles, infrastructure, and cloud-based systems, offering new possibilities for keyless access control.
Key Development:
NXP has introduced solutions that integrate V2X communication with keyless vehicle-access systems. These solutions enable vehicles to communicate with surrounding infrastructure, such as smart parking systems, and automatically unlock or open the vehicle when the authorized driver approaches. NXP’s innovative V2X solutions leverage advanced communication protocols such as Ultra-Wideband (UWB) and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), providing a seamless, contactless access experience that enhances vehicle security and user convenience.
By integrating V2X communication with keyless entry, NXP is helping automakers create more interconnected and secure vehicle ecosystems that provide a higher level of convenience, especially in smart cities and autonomous environments.
The keyless vehicle-access control system market is experiencing a transformative shift as new technologies continue to redefine how consumers interact with their vehicles. Several startups have emerged in the automotive tech industry, offering innovative solutions for secure, convenient, and efficient vehicle access without the need for traditional keys. These startups are challenging the status quo, providing advanced access control systems that leverage biometrics, smartphones, and other cutting-edge technologies. Below are some key startups in the keyless vehicle-access control system market and their growth strategies for the coming years.
CarLock, a promising startup specializing in automotive security, offers a keyless entry solution that focuses not only on providing seamless access to vehicles but also on enhancing security through real-time vehicle tracking. CarLock combines smartphone-based access technology with advanced vehicle monitoring systems to give users full control over their vehicle’s access while ensuring protection against theft and unauthorized access.
Growth Strategy:
CarLock’s growth strategy centers around providing a dual-function security solution that combines keyless entry with vehicle tracking and anti-theft features. By integrating smartphone-based access control with GPS tracking and motion sensors, CarLock offers a comprehensive solution for vehicle security. Their strategy includes targeting a broad consumer base by offering both private car owners and fleet operators a way to secure and manage their vehicles remotely.
Additionally, CarLock aims to expand its offerings by integrating with third-party apps and services, such as fleet management platforms, and increasing compatibility with emerging vehicle technologies like autonomous vehicles. With a focus on data security, CarLock is investing in the development of more robust encryption protocols to ensure that its system is secure against cyberattacks and relay attacks.
The company also seeks to expand its market reach beyond individual consumers by targeting insurance companies and other industries that rely on vehicle fleets. By offering their keyless entry and tracking technology as part of broader vehicle security solutions, CarLock is positioning itself to become a major player in the automotive security market.
Autoliv, a global leader in automotive safety systems, has entered the keyless vehicle-access control system market with a focus on biometric authentication. Autoliv’s keyless entry technology incorporates fingerprint and facial recognition to enhance vehicle security and user convenience. The company is using its expertise in safety and sensor technology to innovate in vehicle-access control systems, bringing new biometric solutions to the forefront.
Growth Strategy:
Autoliv’s growth strategy is built around leveraging its established reputation in automotive safety and expanding into new market segments like biometric vehicle access systems. By focusing on advanced biometric authentication methods, such as fingerprint recognition and facial scanning, Autoliv aims to provide a more secure and personalized access experience for consumers. Their systems are designed to integrate seamlessly with other vehicle safety technologies, offering a holistic approach to both access control and overall vehicle protection.
The startup is also focusing on partnerships with leading automakers to implement these biometric systems in their vehicles. Autoliv's strategy includes extensive research and development to improve the accuracy and reliability of its biometric sensors. Moreover, the company aims to position its systems as part of the broader trend of smart car technologies, where biometric data could be used for personalized vehicle settings, such as seat positioning, climate control, and infotainment preferences.
Autoliv is targeting the high-end luxury vehicle market initially, where there is a demand for advanced access control and personalized user experiences. Over time, the company plans to scale its solutions to mass-market vehicles, making biometric access systems more widely accessible.
Kigen, a leading player in the field of digital keys and secure identity solutions, has positioned itself as a startup with a unique offering in the keyless vehicle-access control market. Kigen's approach focuses on providing secure, scalable digital key solutions that leverage the power of embedded SIM (eSIM) technology, enabling drivers to use their smartphones as digital keys for unlocking and starting their vehicles.
Growth Strategy:
Kigen's growth strategy revolves around building a secure, scalable, and interoperable digital key ecosystem. By utilizing its eSIM technology, Kigen is able to provide a flexible and secure infrastructure that allows vehicle manufacturers and service providers to integrate digital key capabilities into their connected vehicle offerings. Kigen’s keyless entry solution enables users to unlock and start their cars using their smartphones, while the embedded SIM technology ensures the highest level of security and protection against cyber threats.
Kigen’s strategy is to form strategic partnerships with automotive OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) to integrate its digital key technology into next-generation vehicles, especially in connected and autonomous vehicles. As vehicles become more connected through 5G and V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) communications, Kigen’s platform is designed to be adaptable, enabling the seamless operation of digital keys across multiple connected devices, including smartphones, smartwatches, and other IoT devices.
In addition to digital key technology, Kigen is expanding its offerings to include secure vehicle-to-cloud communication and remote access services. These solutions enable users to control their vehicle’s settings remotely, adding convenience and improving the overall user experience.
V2X Solutions, a startup focused on Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication, is innovating the keyless vehicle-access control market by integrating cloud-based technology into its access systems. The company’s keyless entry solutions leverage V2X communication to provide proximity-based vehicle access, allowing users to unlock their vehicles based on geolocation and other contextual data.
Growth Strategy:
V2X Solutions is aiming to redefine the keyless vehicle-access experience by integrating it into the broader ecosystem of connected cars. The company’s cloud-based keyless entry system uses V2X technology to facilitate seamless communication between the vehicle, surrounding infrastructure, and authorized users. This system makes it possible for vehicles to automatically unlock when an authorized driver approaches, using geolocation and proximity data.
V2X Solutions’ growth strategy focuses on the growing trend of connected and autonomous vehicles. The startup is targeting the autonomous vehicle market by offering keyless entry solutions that cater to the unique needs of self-driving cars, where traditional physical keys may not be applicable. By integrating its solutions with smart cities and connected infrastructure, V2X Solutions is positioning itself as a key player in the future of urban mobility.
The startup also aims to expand its market presence by collaborating with city planners, automotive manufacturers, and mobility service providers to implement its technology in smart cities and fleet management applications. V2X Solutions is focused on providing scalable solutions that can support a wide range of vehicles, from private cars to shared fleets and autonomous vehicles.
Slock.it, a startup focused on blockchain and IoT technologies, is disrupting the keyless vehicle-access control market by integrating blockchain technology into its solutions. Slock.it uses smart contracts and decentralized protocols to provide secure, contactless access to vehicles. Through blockchain, users can grant temporary or permanent access to vehicles, offering a higher level of control and security over the use of digital keys.
Growth Strategy:
Slock.it’s growth strategy is centered around creating a decentralized platform that integrates blockchain technology with keyless entry systems. The startup is leveraging its expertise in blockchain to offer a unique solution that allows users to securely share access to their vehicles using smart contracts. This system can be particularly useful for shared mobility services, where users can rent vehicles or share access with others on-demand.
By offering blockchain-based keyless entry solutions, Slock.it aims to capitalize on the growing demand for secure, transparent, and tamper-proof access control. The company’s system ensures that each transaction-whether it’s granting or revoking access-is logged on a public ledger, providing an immutable record of all interactions with the vehicle. This level of transparency and security is particularly attractive for fleet management and car-sharing services, where ownership and access need to be securely and efficiently managed.
Slock.it is also focusing on partnerships with car-sharing platforms, mobility providers, and automotive OEMs to integrate its blockchain-based keyless access systems into the growing shared mobility and autonomous vehicle markets. The company envisions a future where blockchain becomes the standard for digital vehicle access and ownership.
Yale, traditionally known for its home security solutions, has expanded its product portfolio into the automotive space by developing keyless vehicle-access systems that integrate with smart home automation technologies. Yale’s systems allow users to unlock and start their vehicles using the same smartphone app they use to control their home security systems. This integration creates a seamless experience for consumers who are increasingly looking for interconnected smart devices.
Growth Strategy:
Yale’s growth strategy is focused on offering a holistic, interconnected solution for smart home and vehicle access. By integrating its keyless entry systems with home automation platforms such as Amazon Alexa and Google Home, Yale is positioning itself as a leader in the emerging trend of connected living. Consumers can unlock their vehicles, adjust climate controls, and even start their engines remotely using the same app they use for their home security systems.
The company’s strategy also includes expanding its presence in the electric vehicle (EV) market, where keyless entry and integration with home automation are becoming increasingly important. As more consumers adopt EVs, the demand for seamless, integrated access solutions is expected to rise. Yale’s ability to offer home-to-vehicle integration makes it a key player in the future of connected living and mobility.
The keyless vehicle-access control system market is positioned for significant growth through 2035, driven by advancements in security, convenience, and technological integration. As vehicles become smarter and more connected, the demand for advanced keyless access solutions will continue to rise. Innovations such as smartphone-based access, biometric authentication, and V2X communication will shape the future of vehicle security and access control.
With growing opportunities in autonomous vehicles, shared mobility, and the integration of smart home technologies, the keyless entry market is set to evolve in exciting ways. Automakers will need to remain focused on developing secure, user-friendly, and customizable keyless systems that meet the needs of today’s consumers. By capitalizing on trends like biometrics, IoT, and remote vehicle management, the keyless vehicle-access control system market will be a central player in the automotive industry for years to come.
