Stolen vehicle tracking provider (SVT) Trackstar has secured an extended contract with BMW UK on the back of its new tracking solution.

Trackstar’s new SVT solution combines improved hardware and a new app with its existing AI-based tracking and voice assistant, known as TARA

Developed in response to BMW’s global call for innovation from its partners, the new SVT solution combines improved hardware and a new app with its existing AI-based tracking and voice assistant, known as Trackstar Automated Response Assistant or TARA for short.

The new BMW Trackstar hardware offers multiple benefits to BMW and its customers; it’s smaller and less detectable to thieves, whilst also incorporating new technology that not only provides a more secure connection, but also jams foreign signals, which increases the chance of recovery.

Installation has also been simplified – reducing fitting and testing times by up to 50% – and the device is both Thatcham S7 and S5-approved.

The new app, compatible with all phones, also provides a number of innovations. It enables users to set geofences to determine when a tracked vehicle leaves a predetermined area, as well as create Driver Tags, which, if not present when the vehicle is started, will create an immediate alert for the owner. The app can also deactivate an alarm to manage false alerts more efficiently.

Both products will partner with the existing TARA AI-based virtual assistant, which operates 24/7 to monitor potential signs of vehicle theft and contact owners in case of any anomalies.

Jonathon Eaves, managing director of stolen vehicle tracking and traffic services at Trackstar, which is part of Teletrac Navman, said: “Our partnership with BMW UK is one of continued desire to always provide the best possible outcome in what can be a largely unpleasant experience for the end user. Extending our contract is testament to everyone in the business, the true insights that shape our product development, and the constant drive for innovation in all that we offer.”