Automotive technology firm RDM is preparing for further growth after its Auto-txt product received official backing from the police.

RDM, based in Coventry, has been accredited with the Secured by Design award which ensures a response when any vehicle fitted with the device is stolen.

Auto-txt is the first of a new generation of Category 5 accredited tracking systems to receive the award, which supports the principles of 'designing out crime' by using effective crime prevention and security standards.

David Keene, managing director of RDM, said the award would be a massive boost for the company.

He said: "This is very good accreditation because it is run by the police themselves.

"This will definitely help sell more of our units. Love them or not, it is the police people go to when their car is stolen, and this device will help them locate it.

"It will also help sell cars when it is fitted because the security it brings can become a selling point."

The Auto-txt system requires the owner's mobile phone to be present as well as the ignition key to start a car.

Auto-txt immediately identifies a car as stolen if the car is started with the keys but the mobile phone is not there.

It is one of the first stolen vehicle protection and tracking systems to have been awarded Category 5 accreditation.

Key features of Category 5 include a way of identifying the driver in addition to possession of car keys and the means to disable a vehicle that has been stolen, remotely from a central control centre.

Also when the police are following a stolen car, Auto-txt allows them to track the vehicle and prevent it restarting using remote wireless technology once the vehicle ignition is turned off.

The Secured By Design accreditation follows the selection of Auto-txt by Jaguar Cars and Land Rover to supply car tracking and security systems for all their vehicles.

RDM Group has just raised funds of £4.75 million to further develop and roll out the system. The company, which employs 32 people, now plans to increase its headcount to 50.

Chris Cole, engineering director of RDM, said: "Being awarded Secured By Design shows how fundamental Auto-txt is in the fight against car crime.

"It is important that car owners are aware that not all stolen vehicle tracking systems are the same and not all are guaranteed a proactive police response."