JLR to target £1m on policing car theft epidemic

JLR is to fund a new national policing unit focused on gathering intelligence at ports frequently used by criminal gangs to export stolen vehicles.

It is part of a £1 million initiative to support policing efforts against organised crime groups targeting vehicles such as the Range Rover in its latest bid to tackle thefts in high-risk areas.

The car manufacturer has previously funded additional policing at UK ports in the wake of a Range Rover theft epidemic caused by organised crime gangs that make significant profits from shipping stolen high-end vehicles abroad.

JLR said theft rates for its newest models are falling with figures for 2023 showing Range Rover thefts were down by 27% on 2022 and Range Rover Sport thefts down by 29%.

Using sophisticated equipment, thieves attack cars equipped with keyless entry systems by using a ‘relay attack’ where the signal emitted from the car’s keyfob can be picked up by a receiver and sent to another transmitter. The car thinks a legitimate key is within proximity, even though it’s still in the owner’s house, allowing thieves to drive off.

Police believe that the majority of cars stolen in 2023 were taken using this method.

Patrick McGillycuddy, managing director of JLR UK, said: "We are continually enhancing our systems and security features. Our close collaboration with police allows us to stay ahead of emerging theft methods and quickly implement anti-theft measures. This additional investment, alongside our ongoing proactive efforts, underscores our commitment to supporting law enforcement in effectively combating vehicle theft in the UK."

JLR said it is also helping UK authorities by sharing vehicle location and telematics data, which assists in prosecutions and vehicle recovery. JLR has also trained over 650 officers to help locate stolen vehicles and seize tools used in these crimes.

The latest generation of JLR vehicles has proven highly resistant to theft. According to Police National Computer (PNC) data, since January 2022, only 0.2% of new Range Rovers and Range Rover Sports have been stolen, and only 0.3% of new Defenders have been stolen since their launch in 2020.

For owners of older vehicles, including those out of warranty, JLR has invested £15 million to upgrade vehicle security, providing the highest possible levels of protection.

In October 2023, JLR also introduced Jaguar Insurance and Land Rover Insurance to help new and existing owners obtain coverage, particularly those seeking Range Rover insurance. So far, over 46,300 quotes have been provided, with an average monthly premium of £183.

Police data from UK ports meanwhile indicates a significant reduction in stolen Range Rovers discovered, with a 49% decrease in 2023 compared to 2022.