Volvo replaces physical car key with app

Swedish car manufacturer Volvo will supply cars without a physical key from 2017. The car owner can unlock and start the car via an application on their own smartphone. The key uses bluetooth for communication.

According to the company, the app replaces all the functions that a physical key also has. It is also possible to use multiple keys via the app, although several Volvos must be available for this.

In addition to functions such as opening the car, the user can also locate the car via GPS or book a rental car. In the latter case, the key of the relevant rental car can be temporarily linked to the renter’s smartphone.

Not only can a landlord share a key, but owners can also share a key with others. For example, someone no longer needs to be physically near the owner to be able to use the car if there is permission to do so.

Volvo is not the first to use apps in combination with the car. For example, there is a remote control app from BMW to open or locate cars. But brands such as Range Rover also use apps to control the car remotely. Teslas can also be followed via a smartphone app.

Volvo will soon show the technology at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. It says it is the first car brand to completely abandon the key in favor of an app, although a physical key can be supplied for those who wish.