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The world of electric cars is changing at lightning speed. Not only are the batteries and driving technology innovative, but also the way we open and start our car is getting a digital upgrade. Where a simple key used to suffice, modern Asian brands such as BYD, XPeng and NIO are increasingly using keycards and smartphone keys. This development offers convenience and a high-tech look, but also brings new challenges.
In this article, we look at how these systems work, what the benefits are, but most importantly, what problems can arise and how you can solve them. In addition, we discuss the security of digital keys and make a comparison with Tesla, the pioneer in this technology.
From physical key to digital access
Tesla was one of the first brands to introduce keycards and smartphones to replace traditional car keys. Asian brands quickly adopted and further developed this technology. Think of the BYD Atto 3 and Dolphin, the XPeng P7 and G9 and the NIO ET5.
With these cars, you can often choose from three options:
-A physical smart key (usually used as a spare key).
-A keycard (similar to a hotel card).
-A smartphone app that provides access via Bluetooth or NFC.
This sounds futuristic and practical, but as with any new technology, teething problems crop up.
How do keycards and smartphone keys work?
Keycards
A keycard is a flat card, usually credit card-sized, that uses NFC technology. Holding the card near the door or on the console unlocks the car and allows it to be started.
Are you having problems with your keycard or is it no longer working properly? Check out our solutions on our keycards page or contact us directly for quick help.
Smartphone keys
A smartphone acts as a digital key via a special app (such as the BYD App or XPeng App). Often this works with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) or NFC, and the app links directly to the car's operating system.
The benefits of digital keys
Digital keys have undeniable advantages:
-Alwaysat hand - Everyone has their smartphone with them.
-Lessloss - No more need for a separate bunch of keys.
-Sharingaccess - You can often easily share a digital key with family members via the app.
-High-techlook - Matches the modern perception of electric cars.
The drawbacks and problems
While the technology is impressive, we frequently encounter glitches and frustrations in practice.
1. Smartphone key does not work
A common problem among BYD and XPeng drivers is that the app does not recognize the car. This can be due to:
-A dead phone battery.
-Problems with Bluetooth or NFC.
-An app that crashes or is not up-to-date.
2. Keycard is not recognized
Sometimes the car does not respond to the keycard, especially in XPeng models. Possible causes:
-Wearing of the chip.
-Damage to the card.
-Sensor in the car responding badly.
3. Car unlocks slowly
Some drivers notice that the car unlocks only after several attempts. This is often due to malfunctions in the communication between app and car.
4. No range or connection
Smartphone keys usually work through the Internet or Bluetooth. In case of poor connection, the system may refuse. Especially with XPeng, we see this problem.
5. Security concerns
Digital keys are more susceptible to hacking attempts or unwanted access if a phone is hacked. Although manufacturers implement security, this remains a concern.
Real-world examples
BYD Atto 3: many complaints that the app does not always recognize the car.
XPeng P7: keycard sometimes has to be held against the sensor several times.
NIO ET5: users report that sharing digital keys via the app is not always smooth.
What to do in case of key problems?
1. Check your phone's battery - often this is the simplest cause.
2. Update the app - manufacturers regularly release patches to fix bugs.
3. Use the spare key or keycard - always handy to have on hand.
4. Have a specialist look in - in case of structural problems, a car key and lock expert can often quickly diagnose and provide solutions.
Preventive tips
-Keep your app and phone software up-to-date.
-Always keep a physical keycard in the car or wallet.
-Test regularly if your smartphone key is still working.
-Ponder a keycover for the keycard to prevent damage.
Security and hacking risks of digital keys
One of the most common concerns with digital car keys is security. Traditional keys could be physically stolen, but digital keys pose new risks.
Relay attacks
Hackers can use special equipment to capture the signal from a smartphone key or keycard and transmit it to the car. This makes it appear as if the owner is standing next to the car, even though he or she is miles away.
Software vulnerabilities
Every smartphone key works through an app. If that app is not properly secured or regularly updated, hackers can gain access to the car.
Sharing digital keys
With NIO and XPeng, you can easily share digital keys with family members. Convenient, but also risky. If someone gains unauthorized access to your account, they can give themselves access to the car.
BYD and XPeng's approach
Fortunately, brands like BYD and XPeng are investing heavily in encryption and two-factor authentication within their apps. Still, it remains important that drivers themselves remain vigilant.
Comparison to Tesla's key technology
Tesla pioneered the introduction of keycards and smartphone keys. Asian brands such as BYD and XPeng have adopted this idea, but there are clear differences.
Tesla
-Standard keycard for opening and starting.
-Smartphone app with Bluetooth connection.
-Possibility of digital key sharing.
-Regular "over-the-air" updates to fix bugs.
BYD
-Keycard + smartphone app (similar to Tesla).
-App sometimes works less stably; users report connection problems.
-Physical smart key included by default.
XPeng
-Strongly focused on smartphone integration.
-Some models support face recognition.
-Sharing of digital keys via cloud account, but error-prone.
NIO
-Provides smart key, keycard and comprehensive smartphone app.
-Emphasis on community sharing of keys.
Conclusion comparison: Tesla is still ahead in stability and ease of use. Asian brands are innovative, but suffer more often from software problems.
Conclusion
The move from physical keys to digital solutions such as keycards and smartphone apps is inevitable. Tesla set the tone, and Asian brands such as BYD, XPeng, NIO and MG are rapidly following. The convenience is great, but so is the potential for problems.
Whether it's a non-working app, a keycard that isn't recognized or concerns around security - a trusted specialist can always help.
Having problems with your keycard or smartphone key?
Get in touch immediately via our contact page. Our experts are ready to get you back on track quickly and professionally!