Continental Buys OTA Keys JV, Launches New Keyless Apps

Continental AG says it has acquired full ownership of OTA keys SA, the 50:50 joint venture it launched three years ago with Belgium-based vehicle distributor D'leteren SA.

Following the purchase, OTA keys will be integrated into the Intelligent Transportation Systems business unit within Continental's Interior division. Financial details weren’t disclosed.

OTA’s app uses a smartphone’s near-field communication or a Bluetooth signal to transmit the appropriate code to unlock and lock the doors. Another reader verifies the smartphone’s virtual key to start the engine. The app also can be used to monitor a vehicle’s location, fuel level, mileage and battery state-of-charge.

Conti also is introducing its own cloud-based Smart Access and Remote Cloud Key apps as part of its "Key as a Service" portfolio. Both technologies support car-sharing services.

In addition to locking, unlocking and keyless ignition, Smart Access allows for hands-free activation and is already embedded into a vehicle’s electrical architecture, Conti notes. The Remote Cloud app offers similar functions for aftermarket applications.

Conti plans to test the keyless technology in a 1,000-car rental fleet later this year. BMW, Volvo, NXP and VOXX also are working on keyless apps.