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+21% More Car Thefts and €64 Million in Damages – Is Your Car Still Safe?

In the first half of 2025, car thefts in the Netherlands increased by 21% compared to the same period last year. According to a recent report by Stichting VbV (Vehicle Crime Insurance Bureau Foundation), this has led to a total damage of €64 million. Light commercial vehicles are also targeted more often, with a 9% increase in thefts.

This sharp rise affects both private and business car owners. The risk of your vehicle being stolen is growing rapidly.

Biggest Increase in Eindhoven, The Hague and Utrecht

In this region, the number of reports in the first half of 2025 is nearly five times higher than in the same period in 2024. A clear increase is also seen in The Hague (+70%) and Utrecht (+100%). Commercial vehicles are especially targeted in Eindhoven, with four times more thefts compared to the first half of 2024.

Popular Models Among Thieves

SUVs and compact hatchbacks are the most targeted by car thieves. The Toyota RAV4 remains the most stolen model (232 times). The Kia Sportage shows the largest jump, increasing from 19 thefts in early 2024 to 82 in 2025, which is more than 4.5 times higher.

Common Theft Method: Relay Attack

Many modern cars are stolen without any signs of forced entry. Criminals use a method called a relay attack, where the signal from your car key is extended so that the car can be unlocked and started — even if the key is safely inside your home. The issue? Most car keys constantly send out a signal unless you take action.

The Solution: Sleeping Battery

A proven way to stop relay attacks is to temporarily disable your car key’s signal. Sleeping Battery offers exactly that: a smart solution that automatically deactivates your key’s battery when not in use. No signal means no extension and no opportunity for thieves.

More than 100,000 vehicles are now protected with Sleeping Battery. More and more car owners are choosing this proven and user-friendly solution to secure their vehicle.

With just one simple step, you can protect yourself from a fast-growing threat. And with the average damage per stolen car at €17,500, prevention is well worth it.

Don’t wait for the statistics to catch up with you. Protect your vehicle from smart thieves before it’s too late. Find out more on the Sleeping Battery website.

 

Op 16 July 2025