Electric Car Theft: Electric Car Owners: Here’s How Thieves Are Stealing Your Vehicle Without a Scratch

Modern tech. Modern risk.

Electric cars have transformed the way we drive — they’re quieter, cleaner, and packed with smart features. But here’s the uncomfortable truth:

They’re also shockingly easy to steal.

And the criminals know it.

Electric Car Theft in the UK is changing. Gone are the days of broken windows and hot-wired ignitions. Today’s car crime is digital — silent, efficient, and happening on your driveway while you sleep.

If you drive a Tesla, BMW, Audi, Polestar, Kia, Hyundai — or anything with keyless entry — this article is for you.

How Electric Car Theft Works in 2025

It’s called a relay attack — and it’s both simple and devastating.

Here’s how it goes down:

1. Thief One stands near your front door with a signal booster.

2. Thief Two waits by your car with a receiver.

3. The device tricks your car into thinking your key is present.

4. Doors unlock. Engine starts.

5. Your car is gone in under 60 seconds. No broken glass. No noise. No warning.

Most victims don’t know a thing until they wake up and see an empty driveway.

Why It Works So Easily

• Keyless entry systems constantly emit a low-frequency signal to connect with your vehicle.

• Most people leave their keys by the front door, within range of a relay device.

• The kit costs under £50 and can be bought online.

• Your insurance may not pay out — because there’s no sign of forced entry.

Worse still? Thieves often target high-value electric cars to strip them for parts or ship them overseas. Recovery rates are low.

7 Ways to Prevent Keyless Car Theft

The good news? You can make your car a much harder target with a few simple changes:

Use a Faraday Pouch or Tin

These block your key’s signal. Keep your keys inside one at home, and carry one when out. You can buy them online or in hardware shops — cost: around £10.

Double-Lock Your Vehicle

Most EVs allow a second press of the lock button to disable keyless entry. Do it. Every time.

Disable Keyless Entry Altogether

Check your car settings or mobile app — many manufacturers allow you to turn it off completely. It may be buried in a menu, but it’s worth finding.

Don’t Leave Keys Near the Door or Window

Keep your keys well away from windows, letterboxes, or external walls — the further from your car, the better.

Fit a Steering Wheel Lock

Yes, it looks old-school. But it works. Thieves are looking for quick wins — not a fight.

Turn Off Remote Unlock via App

Many EV apps allow remote unlocking — brilliant if you’re forgetful, terrible if you’re targeted. Disable this unless you need it.

Use CCTV or a Smart Doorbell

It won’t stop the theft, but it gives you critical evidence — especially number plates or repeat visits from spotters.

What Businesses Need to Know

If you’re a business owner and your car is part of your company fleet, this isn’t just a personal issue — it’s a data and compliance risk.

• What if your phone or laptop is in the vehicle?

• What if it contains sensitive customer data?

• What if you use your car for business continuity — and it’s taken out of action?

This isn’t just theft. It’s disruption. And for some businesses, it could be reputational or financial damage you weren’t prepared for.

Your electric car isn’t just a vehicle. It’s a target.

Criminals are evolving. The tools they use are simple, cheap, and effective — and they’re working across the UK right now.

The answer isn’t paranoia — it’s prevention.

You don’t need to spend thousands.

You just need to take it seriously.

Because by the time you notice it’s missing, it’s already on a container heading out of the country.

Want more security tips like this?

Follow Jason on Cyber or speak to the team at Munio for practical, no-fluff cybersecurity and digital protection advice — from home to business and everything in between.