SMS Active Defence - Stop Car Crime By Text

Motorists can take control in the battle against vehicle crime with a new active defence alarm system based on SMS texting and designed to reduce the 250,000 cars stolen in the UK every year. Sempal’s new Spal Sat satellite alarm joins GPS technology with the convenience of SMS texting. The interactive system watches over the vehicle, contacts you via your mobile if there is a security alert, lets you trigger key security features and includes pinpoint track and trace capability.

The subscription-free system works with any alarm and can detect if a car is moved or trailered more than 20m. Car owners are sent an immediate text alert warning of any security breach or unauthorised movement. They can activate a series of functions to stop the thief’s progress including immobilising the engine (with vehicle stationary), flashing hazard lights and a powerful internal siren.

The Spal Sat is fitted with a GPS satellite system that precisely tracks a vehicle’s movements. In an emergency owners receive, via text, details of the vehicle’s speed, direction and map co-ordinates. The car’s position can then be immediately identified by the owner, without having to rely on a call centre or website, by simply using a mapping software CD covering Western Europe which is provided free with the system.

A number of optional security features are available including a ‘panic button’ or ‘crash sensor’ which sends an emergency call and SMS automatically to a dedicated emergency number. Also a basic ‘Anti-Car Jack’ function allows drivers to put themselves at a safe distance between them and the car-jackers. The vehicle can be remotely immobilised and located with total security.

For added peace of mind, the dedicated Spal Anti Car Jack system will alert the Spal Sat even if the car is stolen with the car keys. This has an RRP of £212 + VAT. This is fully fitted.

Consisting of a remote receiver, SIM card and battery unit with emergency back-up secreted internally within the vehicle, the Spal Sat can be installed quickly and efficiently via Sempal’s nationwide authorised dealer network. The standard system has a RRP from £511 + VAT with no monthly or annual subscriptions to pay - simply the cost of a SIM card and SMS text messages.

Matthew Morris, Sempal’s Managing Director, said:

"For too long the driver has felt defenceless against the thief and has been waiting for a user-friendly security system that offers them a way to tackle car crime. What makes the Spal Sat different is that it is interactive and allows motorists to take control.

"After being alerted to a security breach, they can then use SMS texting to track and immobilise their own vehicle and effect safe recovery instead of standing helplessly as it disappears into the sunset."