Deploying a centrally managed platform for telematics devices could immobilise vehicles used for criminal activity, particularly in terrorist attacks.

Black boxes and smartphone apps could be used to immobilise vehicles remotely. Image:TomTom Telematics

According to telematics firm Trak Global Group (TGG), vehicles’ black boxes and smartphone apps could be linked to a platform, which would alert about potential incidents and enable the vehicle to be immobilised remotely, regardless of who supplied the hardware.

The firm is working on a unique driver ID mechanism which creates an alert if the authorised driver becomes involuntarily separated from their vehicle. Andrew Brown-Allan, director of the company’s research division, Trak Labs, said that remote immobilisation is already possible through a black box.

He said: “Since 2015 there have been at least 14 vehicle attacks world-wide, including the Westminster Bridge attack in London, with nearly 850 casualties. We need to harness this relatively new technology to stop terrorists turning vehicles into weapons of mass destruction.”