Catalytic Converter: How the device helps reduce emissions
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Thefts peaked in March 2021, with 3,245 recorded in the UK that month, but have steadily declined since, with 1,378 recorded in July. A surge in the price of precious metals saw theft of catalytic converters become a national issue earlier this year, and police across the UK joined forces to combat the trend.
The new technology from SmartWater has heavily influenced the drop in thefts.
Unlike the etching of serial numbers, which can be clearly seen by the criminals and removed easily by simply scrapping with a screwdriver, SmartWater is invisible to the naked eye, but glows yellow under UV light.
Any attempt to scrape it off by the criminal risks spreading incriminating evidence onto their clothes, tools and location.
SmartWater scientists only need a speck to identify which vehicle the components belong to.
Around 30 percent of all UK car thefts are geared towards stealing catalytic converters, as market prices for precious metals continue to rise.
A simple, cost-effective, 10-minute process, which any garage could offer customers, is now available to deter these crimes.
With the vehicle on the ramp, a special SmartWater high temperature product is applied with a brush and the unique formula reference number is logged on the database against the vehicle registration number.
Phil Cleary, CEO and co-founder of SmartWater, spoke about the general rollout of the new technology to garages and when that could occur.
DON’T MISS
Some classic cars could double in value in just 10 years [ANALYSIS]
Car tax changes mean drivers can secure ‘attractive monthly rates’ [WARNING]
E10 petrol: Drivers preparing for changes with renewable push [INSIGHT]
Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk, he said: “It’s a 10-minute process to actually register the mark, so to say to the car owner, ‘look you’re getting this work done, why not’.
“It’ll be down to the individual MOT station to set the price, and then you can get your catalytic converter protected.
“August is a bad month. You know, people on holiday and stuff like that so we’ll be talking to the industry straight and seeking their views but will be pushing it out in September formally.
“We have a number of major nationals (garages) who are already interested in becoming partners.
Save 10% on your MOT
It’s Kwik Fits’ Midsommer Madness sale and you can take 10% off your MOT Test with the UK’s #1 MOT tester – just click the link to book online.
Source: Read Full Article