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Reference.org
Smart key
open-in-new
<p>A smart key is a vehicular passive entry system developed by <a href="/facts/Siemens/coa80TQn">Siemens</a> in 1995 and introduced by <a href="/facts/Mercedes-Benz/pGrJrQHC">Mercedes-Benz</a> under the name "Keyless-Go" in 1998 on the W220 <a href="/facts/Mercedes-Benz_S-Class_(W220)/d3eyxga8">S-Class</a>, after the design patent was filed by Daimler-Benz on May 17, 1997. </p><p>Numerous manufacturers subsequently developed similar passive systems that unlock a vehicle on approach — while the key remains pocketed by the user. </p>