Metavera, which offers technology solutions for car-sharing systems, has announced the launch of its Lock ‘n Track system — a vehicle access and control system that works in conjunction with Metavera’s car-sharing platform.

Lock ‘n Track consists of a two-part system. The “lock” refers to a vehicle-mounted lock box containing the key of the shared vehicle, says Metavera.

When a customer is scheduled to pick up the vehicle, he or she receives an SMS message with a one-time access security code to open the vehicle’s lock box. Once a customer opens the lock box, he or she removes the key and is ready to drive, says Metavera.

The “track” refers to a GPS module that easily connects to the vehicle’s on-board diagnostics (OBD) system. This device provides car-tracking information to Metavera’s car-sharing platform, says the company.

“Lock ’n Track provides a lower cost, albeit lower functionality, alternative to our car-sharing solution,” said Tony Simopoulos, CEO of Metavera. “It extends the utility of our car-sharing platform and it fits to markets such as peer-to-peer car sharing.”

Lock ‘n Track was tested with Car Next Door peer-to-peer car sharing in Australia.

“Lock ‘n Track brings us several new benefits,” said Will Davies, CEO of Car Next Door. “It reduces our cost of enablement per car by 50% or more. It allows for easy installation and removal without professional effort and without damage to the vehicle. ...”

For more information, visit www.metavera.com.