Thales provides car manufacturers with safe and hassle-free solutions to expand their customers' vehicle access experiences. The offer leverages the digital car key solution and the smart NFC CARd Key, a new cutting-edge and customisable solution. Designed to complement the digital key, this innovative NFC-based card offers a reliable alternative in the event of disruptions on users' smartphones and allows drivers to unlock and start their cars with a simple 'tap'.

After digitally enrolling drivers? credentials upon the purchase of a car, Thales?s digital car key system securely allows drivers to enter and start the vehicle using their smartphone, while the mobile device is still in the pocket or in the bag. Such flexible solutions enable a wide range of automotive use cases, making car access and sharing significantly easier.

Private car owners can digitally share their access with family members or friends, while car rental firms can do the same with customers, physically removing the need to pick up car keys at a rental desk. Meanwhile, the introduction of Thales?s NFC CARd Key perfectly supports scenarios when a smartphone might not be available. Functioning like a contactless payment card, the NFC CARd Key establishes secure, encrypted communication with the vehicle, allowing instant access and engine start, just like the mobile app.

With over 10 years of durability in the field, and a strong resistance to high temperatures, it ensures robust protection, while enabling a smooth and simple ?tap-enter-and-go? experience. Beyond its technical features, the NFC CARd Key presents a valuable branding opportunity for automotive manufacturers, as its design can be customised, creating a unique and singular card due to Thales's wide range of printing options (3D effect, tactile varnish, etc.).