The Cadillac Escalade currently sits at the top of the “most-stolen” vehicle list, which obviously isn’t great publicity for the large SUV. GM is out to fix this with new security enhancements on the 2012 Escalade.
“The goal is to make the Escalade a very difficult target for thieves without any added inconvenience for customers,” said Bill Biondo, General Motors’ global leader for vehicle theft prevention. “The new systems work in the background and few people realize they are there, but they are strong added protections.”
For 2012 the Escalade gets:
– PASS Key 3+, which is an encryption system for the key, key cylinder and ignition system. -A steering column-lock system that makes it nearly impossible to maneuver the Escalade onto a flatbed.
– An available inclination sensor that sets off an alarm when the system senses an unwarranted change of the angle of the vehicle, such as would occur with towing, flat-bedding or lifting the vehicle.
– An available shock sensor intended to reduce content theft and push-away theft by sounding the alarm when the vehicle is “shocked,” such as by breaking window glass.
-An available new wheel lock system to help prevent the theft of Escalade’s wheels and tires.
OnStar provides standard additional security with a remote ignition lock that can prevent the vehicle from starting if a break-in is detected. If a vehicle is stolen, OnStar can also provide vehicle location and remotely slow the vehicle down to assist law enforcement in vehicle recovery.
We’ll have to wait and see if these new features keep the Escalade of the “most-stolen” list.
