Continental Enhances 'Key as a Service' Portfolio and Acquires Full Ownership of OTA keys

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Sept. 21, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- International technology company Continental announced today the availability of its cloud-based solutions Continental Smart Access (CoSmA) and Remote Cloud Key (RCK) to provide convenient and secure keyless vehicle access and start authorization as part of its "Key as a Service" portfolio.

The company has also acquired full ownership of OTA keys, underscoring its interest in developing "Key as a Service" as an important component of its mobility services portfolio.

Both technologies support on-demand vehicle access using a smart device for locking, unlocking and start authorization. In addition, CoSmA enables hands-free access to the system and is already embedded in the vehicle's architecture, while RCK works as an aftermarket solution. Both are a perfect fit for the rapidly growing shared mobility services market, with faster response time than telematics-based access solutions, as well as offline availability for end users.

Founded in September 2014 as a joint venture between Continental and D'leteren, OTA keys enable fleets, car-sharing and car rental companies to use the mobile phones as keys for their vehicles. This allows users to obtain live trip data from the vehicle, such as localization, fuel level, mileage and state of charge. Propelled by the rising demand for consumer convenience in the shared mobility market, the startup has established itself as an important player in the automotive industry, as its technology has been deployed in thousands of vehicles across a dozen global customers. Now, OTA keys will be incorporated into the Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) business unit within Continental's Interior division.

"We will leverage the innovative spirit and agility that makes OTA keys successful, along with Continental's technology and structural strength to enhance our keyless access solutions," said Ralf Lenninger, head of the Intelligent Transportation Systems business unit at Continental. "'Key as a Service' is the answer to many of the hurdles that shared mobility services presents. From facilitating easy rentals or car sharing to providing roadside assistance, from package deliveries to vehicle grooming, 'Key as a Service' will make it all possible."

Continental presented its "Key as a Service" offerings, including CoSmA and RCK, as a complete package providing digital vehicle access for various use cases at the International Motor Show Germany (IAA) in Frankfurt am Main in September.

Continental develops pioneering technologies and services for sustainable and connected mobility of people and their goods. Founded in 1871, the technology company offers safe, efficient, intelligent and affordable solutions for vehicles, machines, traffic and transport. In 2016, Continental generated sales of €40.5 billion and currently employs more than 230,000 people in 56 countries.

SOURCE Continental

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