The West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner is to meet with car makers next week to tackle a rise in 'relay' car thefts.
The April 12 security summit was organised in reaction to soaring vehicle thefts where criminals exploit ‘keyless’ technology to steal cars.
Crime Commissioner David Jamieson says that while police can investigate and enforce crime, it is also up to the car makers to beef up security.
The keyless technology allows criminals using a relay device to extend the radio signal from the key fob inside a house to the car parked outside - tricking the car into thinking the key is nearer and opening the door.
It then just takes a push of the button to start the car.
Last year police issued CCTV footage of thieves using such a device to steal a Mercedes from a home in Elmdon.
After decades of decline, car and vehicle crime across the UK is beginning to rise again.
A total of 65,783 vehicles were reported stolen to 40 police forces in England and Wales in 2013, but by 2016 it had risen to 85,688.
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Among those concerned at the relay rise is Andrew Marcinko, a psychologist with Aston University, who tweeted Mr Jamieson about the issue.
He said: “Hearing about dozens of car break-ins in Birmingham City Centre and the Jewellery Quarter using spoofed keyless entry systems.
"Apparently can buy online for £200. Police just say ‘Sorry, nothing we can do’.”
Mr Jamieson replied: “Agree it is an area more needs to be done on, that is why I’m bringing together manufacturers later this month to tackle this issue.
"I’ll keep you informed of the progress we make. It is about enforcement, but I believe there’s more manufacturers can do to protect vehicles too.”
The commissioner argues that while police can catch thieves and shut down the ‘chop shops’ where stolen cars are stripped for parts or disguised ready for resale, the car industry needs to do more.
“Manufacturers who sell and profit from selling cars have a big responsibility to make their cars harder to steal,” he added.
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He has also described the relay thefts as ‘kid’s play - taking just 30 to 40 seconds to get in and off you go’.
The summit with car makers is due to take place on April 12.
Police are now advising owners of keyless cars to buy old-fashioned steering locks to ensure their cars are protected.
Storing the key fob in a metal tin over night can also cut out the signal.