Not having a metal key to stick in the ignition was a novelty when the Prius was new - now it's mainstream.
Hey, I still have an antenna for HDTV. More channels, no hassle. I'm grandfather for satellite with Dish. I don't pay for retransmission of the locals. It's the best possible picture, and it is FREE. The antenna was paid for in 1998. Not all new technology is better. I don't need an I-phone to check the pressure in my tires.
As I recall, there was a Mercedes model with a SKS type system about the time Toyota introduced the second generation Prius with SKS. I don't know if the first generation had it.
I don't think it had anything to do with the Prius being "first". It wasn't actually first, and it's a "new" technology that is gradually being adopted by others. But it is sort of cool that our car is breaking new ground for others. So far we haven't been "bitten" by the new technology.
When I drove my first car with a smart key system (2007 Gen II Prius) I thought it was a nifty gimmick. Never looked back, best thing since sliced bread Now, if they would just go the next step and loose the dashboard 'Start' button.
I really enjoy the convenience of the SKS. I'm not too worried about the Prius getting stolen considering its one of the least stolen cars in America. Also no amount of alarms/technology will stop a car thief. Nexus 7 ?
If you believe PHD's with the backing of their institutions steal cars then be worried. Otherwise, it was an academic exercise. Or to put it another way, how to spend 10% more on stealing a car than you will earn doing it.
True, what was unique was the early adoption in the Prius. In the usual pattern of these things working their way down the price line, the Prius would not have had it the second generation. iPad ? HD
wish the key used a rfid chip or something so the batty in the fob doesn't drain as fast when left in the car.. that way the batty only powered the door unlock
Normal RFID range is too short to find it in the car, unless (1) it was always stashed in a specific spot next to a reader, or (2) the car seriously boosts the reader power, draining the 12V battery much faster.
I believe there is an rfid chip in the smark key. According to the manual, if the key battery dies, use the mechanical key to get in, then touch the logo on the smart key to the start button to enable the car. They've thought of everything! I must say, I love the SKS. Aftr just a month ofownership it seems so passe when I have to use an actual mechanical key to start our other car. All that digging around in pockets, having to fish out a key! The 'touch the door handle' to lock & unlock is great too, the key fob stays in my pocket (or my wife's handbag) all the time. I would not get rid of the start button, sometimes I don't want the car to enable itself when I get in range. patrick
