The Evolution of the Renault Key Card

The hands-free cards are a vital element of every Renault car. The size of a credit card it has several buttons for controlling the car.

This tiny object which is smaller than a credit card-sized object was initially viewed as a device suitable for 007 but has become one of the most innovative products. It has changed how we use cars.

Hands-free Card: A Brief Introduction

Like many other inventions that have altered the way that people drive, the hands-free card was designed as an answer to a specific issue. In this case the driver needed to press the door handle to unlock the doors to their car when they got into their car. This was irritating and often caused people to miss their car, or more importantly, caused them to lock themselves out!

Bernard Dumondel, the product director of Laguna II had an idea to address this issue. He realized that the key card could be used to activate various functions and decided that the hands-free function would be the most convenient.

The first hands-free card was small and simple, it was a simple plastic case with an electronic core programmed that it would constantly ‘communicate with’ the vehicle with which it was paired. If the card was in close proximity to the car, it would transmit a radio signal that contained an access code. The car recognised this, and if the access code was right, the doors unlocked.

The hand-free card contained a microtransmitter which allowed the user to remotely activate the horn and lights. This is useful in emergencies or to draw attention when vehicles are parked illegally. They also had a button that enabled the owner to start their engine.

Hands-free Card Evolution

In the 20 years that have passed since its creation the hands-free card has gone through continuous change both in terms appearance and, above all the technology inside. It is now at the point that it can be regarded as a sort of ‘car passport’ due to its capacity to store crucial information about the vehicle: its serial number and registration, details about the owner, their equipment such as mileage, and even tire pressure.

The hands-free card, hidden behind its minimalist plastic case is programmed to constantly “communicate” with the vehicle with which it is linked. It sends a message to the car which verifies that it is authentic and opens the doors. This is achieved in less than 80 milliseconds – only a fraction of a blink of an eye.

Once the card is in your pocket, you can make use of it to remotely activate your car’s security systems:

For instance, pressing the button 4 turns on your dipped headlights as well as interior lighting. This is useful if you have to exit the vehicle when it is dark or when you are parked on a street and you’re not certain the location of your car. Furthermore the dipped beam may assist you in identifying your vehicle from a distance inside the parking lot. If the battery in your card is depleted then you must replace it (see “Related Products”). It is essential to keep the card away from metal objects, as this could cause it to malfunction.

renault keys of the Smart Access Card

Since its introduction the hands-free card evolved to meet the demands of new technology and evolved to meet the needs of its users. From Magstripe to Prox the smart access card has become more sophisticated and has improved capabilities. The key card’s design has also been altered to accommodate smart cards.

The latest smart card comes with an embedded microprocessor that allows it to perform a variety of functions. For instance, it can store security codes and encrypt data. These capabilities provide more security and make it easier to use. It can be used to make online purchases which allows users to enjoy the convenience and security of shopping without putting their personal data at risk.

Smart cards are more secure than Magstripe or Prox. Smart cards do not require the swipe of a card to activate them and give more precise readings than traditional proximity card. These features decrease maintenance costs and increase efficiency of the administrative and user. There are a variety of factors to be aware of when deciding whether or not to upgrade your system to a smartcard including cost as well as convenience and security.


The Renault Captur smart card opens the doors and activates the rearview camera and starts the engine. It is also able to control the lighting and locate the car in a parking lot.

The Development of Keyless Entry Systems

Keyless entry systems are becoming more sophisticated with the passing of time. The cost of integrating this technology into cars has also decreased. They can opt to incorporate keyless entry systems into their vehicles or buy them.

The first keyless entry was invented by Valeo in 1982. It was referred to as “practical cards”. It functioned similarly to remote controls, allowing users to lock and unlock their cars by pressing one button on the card or on the door handle. This was a significant improvement in terms of convenience for car owners, since they no longer needed to carry around a key.

Keyless entry systems are also used in commercial establishments to safeguard sensitive information. Instead of traditional locks to gain access to the building, employees can scan a badge, or punch the code. The technology can help prevent theft as it tracks who enters and leaves the building at all times.

For rental properties Keyless entry systems are an excellent method to increase security. Tenants often conceal a spare key outside of the property. This poses a security risk to landlords, as thieves are aware of this practice and can easily locate the spare key. Keyless entry systems allow tenants to be informed when they enter or leave the property. They are also deactivated when someone tries to enter without authorization.