Some of you may know that I no longer drive taxi, but have been driving semi for some time. In order to ease my family's mind when I've been out on the road, I've used an app that tracks my smartphone (and with it, me) and can show my location to an accuracy within 50 feet at times. Seems to me this would be a foolproof and easy way to track a vehicle in the event of a theft.
Get a cheap cell phone that has a built-in GPS, or this is a good way to recycle an old phone if it still works. Activate the phone and register its phone number with Life360 (the app I use) or some other such nanny app normally used for keeping track of where your kids/spouses are. NOTE: These apps generally use data and also can triangulate wi-fi hot-spots for better accuracy, a smartphone is best. GPS and mobile data MUST be on for this... Leaving Wi-Fi on will boost accuracy.
Next, run a dedicated 12V unswitched circuit for an auxiliary cigarette lighter socket into an area it won't be easily noticed, plug the phone into a 12V charger, and plug the charger into the cigarette lighter. The Astro and Safari have hidden storage compartments in the cargo area that are perfect for this.
Make sure the phone is in a case, it will protect against breakage. Prevent accidental breakage from vibration by securing it properly. The phone will always be on charge and can be tracked for perhaps DAYS after the theft. Even if the battery is disconnected, the phone's battery should last long enough to pinpoint the location. You now have a lo-jack for as low as $5-10 a month. You're welcome.
Get a cheap cell phone that has a built-in GPS, or this is a good way to recycle an old phone if it still works. Activate the phone and register its phone number with Life360 (the app I use) or some other such nanny app normally used for keeping track of where your kids/spouses are. NOTE: These apps generally use data and also can triangulate wi-fi hot-spots for better accuracy, a smartphone is best. GPS and mobile data MUST be on for this... Leaving Wi-Fi on will boost accuracy.
Next, run a dedicated 12V unswitched circuit for an auxiliary cigarette lighter socket into an area it won't be easily noticed, plug the phone into a 12V charger, and plug the charger into the cigarette lighter. The Astro and Safari have hidden storage compartments in the cargo area that are perfect for this.
Make sure the phone is in a case, it will protect against breakage. Prevent accidental breakage from vibration by securing it properly. The phone will always be on charge and can be tracked for perhaps DAYS after the theft. Even if the battery is disconnected, the phone's battery should last long enough to pinpoint the location. You now have a lo-jack for as low as $5-10 a month. You're welcome.