Released on: June 24, 2008, 8:15 am

Press Release Author: SBD

Industry: Automotive

Press Release Summary: Growing customer awareness and the increased availability of
Smart Key systems on a wider range of models will create the opportunity for fitment
rates to increase over the next 3 to 4 years, almost doubling by 2010, according to
global automotive consultancy, SBD.

Press Release Body: Growing customer awareness and the increased availability of
Smart Key systems on a wider range of models will create the opportunity for fitment
rates to increase over the next 3 to 4 years, almost doubling by 2010, according to
global automotive consultancy, SBD.

"Clearly this will depend to some extent on manufacturers continuing strategies of
fitting systems on more new models and increasing their current level marketing for
smart key systems", states David Bell, Managing Director of SBD.

"We have conducted extensive analysis of the market and technical trends for Smart
Key systems in Europe and estimate current fitment rates to be around 5% in the main
European markets. There is genuine market opportunity for this to increase.
However, vehicle manufacturers must be careful not to present any new areas for
customer concern if they are to ensure that the car buying public perceive Smart Key
systems as a value added feature. Our research shows that there are a number of
issues that need to be addressed during the design stage to produce a convenient and
secure system that meets customer expectations and market requirements -
understanding the voice of the customer is essential if the market opportunity is to
be realised."

SBD's recent report entitled "The market and technical trends for Smart Key systems
in Europe" provides essential information on the issues that will influence the
future development of Smart Keys in Europe and includes a top level summary of the
results from SBD's recent end customer survey which gives an insight into the real
needs of the customer.

SBD has recently announced the launch of their suite of World Class Smart Key
solutions. This includes benchmarking of individual vehicles and systems from
different manufacturers against customer convenience, system performance and vehicle
security; reports on technical and market issues across key markets; end customer
surveys analysing the views of the motorist and bespoke consultancy for clients
seeking exclusive intelligence and support.


Web Site: http://www.sbd.co.uk

Contact Details: Juanita Appleby
jappleby@sbd.co.uk
+44 (0)1908 305107