VTS stands for Vehicle Tracking System. In a car or van, it brings together a tracking device, a connection that sends location data and an app or dashboard where you can view it. Some systems also provide fleet reports or vehicle diagnostics, but those features vary by product.
If you are choosing a tracker for insurance, the initials VTS alone are not enough. Check the exact category and device your insurer accepts. This guide explains the technology, then helps you choose between tracking, driver recognition and added immobilisation.
What does a vehicle tracking system include?
- A tracking device: fitted to or placed in the vehicle, with a power supply appropriate to the product.
- Location technology: usually satellite positioning, used to calculate where the vehicle is.
- A data connection: commonly a mobile network connection that sends reports to the service provider.
- An app or dashboard: displays the information and available alerts.
- Monitoring, where included: a separate service that can support the response to suspected theft.
Receiving a location and sending it to your phone are different steps. A device may be unable to update its position or transmit a report when reception is poor. Underground parking, buildings and mobile coverage can affect performance.
How does vehicle tracking work in practice?
- The device determines a location when it has a suitable signal.
- It sends location and supported event information to the tracking platform.
- The platform displays the latest report and any available history.
- Configured alerts or monitoring procedures help identify events that need attention.
Reporting frequency depends on the device and service. Our standard wired S7 offers real-time tracking. Our separate S7 battery self-fit model sends four routine location updates per day. Do not assume that every tracker delivers the same live view.
VTS, GPS tracking and telematics: what is the difference?
GPS describes a positioning technology. Vehicle tracking describes how location information is used. Telematics can add features such as journey reports, driver behaviour information or vehicle diagnostics. Suppliers use these terms differently, so compare the actual features rather than the label.
A theft-recovery tracker does not automatically include fuel reporting, fault-code readings or fleet software integrations. Ask which functions are supported on your vehicle before ordering.
Which tracking system suits your vehicle?
- Thatcham S7: tracking and monitored recovery support, without S5 driver-recognition tags.
- Thatcham S5: tracking with Automatic Driver Recognition.
- Our S5 Plus: S5 tracking with added No Tag, No Start immobilisation.
- S7 battery self-fit: a separate option with different reporting and installation arrangements.
Thatcham Research lists S5 Vehicle Tracking Systems and S7 Asset Location Systems among its certification categories. Certification does not guarantee that a particular insurer accepts a device. Use your policy wording when choosing.
Start with our guide to insurer tracker requirements, then compare S7, S5 and S5 Plus costs. If you also want start protection, see how a tracker and immobiliser work together.
What should you check before buying?
- Your purpose: theft recovery, an insurance requirement or business journey information.
- Your vehicle: make, model, year and powertrain, including whether it is electric or hybrid.
- Installation: whether fitting is included and which installation arrangement your insurer accepts.
- Monitoring and costs: what the service provides, how payments work and what happens if it stops.
- Everyday use: reporting frequency, app access, alerts and support arrangements.
Our tracker monitoring is £10.99/month, separate from the device price. Read the upfront and running-cost guide for the payment breakdown. For several vehicles, discuss the required reporting and administration with us before choosing a package.
Does VTS always mean vehicle tracking?
No. In maritime material, VTS can mean Vessel Traffic Services. Check the context: a system used to manage vessel movements is different from a car tracker.
Frequently asked questions
What does VTS stand for?
Vehicle Tracking System: the device and services used to provide information about a vehicle’s location.
Will any VTS meet my insurance requirement?
No. Ask your insurer to confirm the accepted category, device, installation arrangement and monitoring requirements.
Does a tracker stop a car starting?
Tracking alone does not mean immobilisation is included. Our standard S5 provides driver recognition; our S5 Plus adds start protection.
Can I choose a tracker without understanding the technical terms?
Yes. Use Find my protection, or contact our team with your vehicle details and the wording from your insurer.