Hyundai, Austin Police Department Collaborate for Anti-Theft Software Upgrade, Hold Event

Mar 07, 2024 09:08 PM EST

LIGHT TRAILS ON HIGHWAY AT NIGHT — (Photo : PEXELS/PIXABAY)

Amidst the surge in auto thefts gripping Austin, mirroring a nationwide phenomenon influenced by a social media craze, Hyundai has stepped up to provide complimentary installation of anti-theft software for owners of the most at-risk vehicles in the local community this upcoming weekend.

Austin Hyundai, Kia Car Theft Solution: Anti-Theft Software Upgrade

In reaction to a recent wave of crimes in Austin that target vehicles, the local police department (APD) is working with Hyundai to put preventative measures in place to stop auto theft. This partnership demonstrates a determined attempt to improve neighborhood safety and security by incorporating cutting-edge anti-theft software updates.

Fox7 Austin reported on the collaboration between the Austin Police Department (APD) and Hyundai to address the surge in auto thefts affecting Hyundai and Kia vehicles nationwide. Mike Earley, a representative from the APD, highlighted the concerning statistics, revealing that in 2023, 35% of all stolen vehicles in Austin were Kia and Hyundai models, despite these brands making up only 9% of the registered cars in Travis County.

In response, Hyundai has extended an invitation to Hyundai owners in and around Austin to visit Burger Sports Complex from March 8 to March 10 for a complimentary anti-theft software upgrade. Additionally, Hyundai technicians will install the new technology in less than 30 minutes, and all Hyundai owners will receive a no-cost steering wheel lock to further bolster their vehicle's security.

To get the software update one does not need an appointment in advance. The Burger Sports Complex is in Austin at 3200 Jones Road.

Hyundai Car Theft Reaches Austin

According to the Austin American-Statesman, Hyundai Motor America will be distributing complimentary steering wheel locks to Hyundai vehicle. This is a part of its initiative to secure car owners and their vehicles from theft incidents. Dave VandeLinde, the vice president of Hyundai Motor America, stated that the installation process is expected to take approximately 20 minutes.

The Austin Police Department's data revealed a notable 33% increase in auto thefts from 2022, with January recording 554 stolen vehicles, the sole month for which data is currently accessible this year. In contrast, January 2023 saw 430 auto thefts. This surge was attributed to the "Kia Challenge," a TikTok trend that showcased the effortless method of stealing 2011-21 Hyundais and Kias using minimal tools.

According to Mike Earley, investigations commander for the Austin Police Department, Kias and Hyundais constitute approximately 9% of registered vehicles in Travis County. While these vehicles represented 5% to 7% of all stolen vehicles in Austin between 2020 and 2022, the proportion spiked in 2023, with Kias and Hyundais accounting for over a third of stolen vehicles.

In addressing the surge in thefts, authorities have noted that a significant portion of individuals stealing Kias and Hyundais are juveniles engaging in "joyriding," although some stolen cars are implicated in "other serious crimes." To tackle this issue, law enforcement has adopted a three-pronged strategy: raising awareness about the targeted vehicles and preventive measures, distributing steering wheel locks to Hyundai and Kia owners, and apprehending car thieves.

A comprehensive study conducted by the Council on Criminal Justice, analyzing 34 U.S. cities, revealed an average 29% increase in auto thefts last year compared to 2022. Moreover, the analysis highlighted a staggering 105% rise in vehicle thefts on average since 2019 across these cities.