ABROB GPS Tracker

GPS Tracker

Inspiration

In Nigeria, where vehicle theft costs ₦78 billion annually (NIA, 2023) and kidnapping risks persist, affordable security tech is scarce. Existing GPS trackers are either too expensive (₦100k+), require subscriptions, or lack anti-theft features.

ABROB was born to solve this with:
✔ No-subscription tracking – Uses GSM/GPS only
✔ Engine immobilization– Stop thefts via SMS
✔ Built for African conditions – Works offline, handles power fluctuations

What It Does

A ₦35k GPS tracker that: Live Location Tracking – Shares coordinates via SMS/web dashboard
Secure Engine Lock – Disables ignition remotely with SMS auth (e.g., "LOCK 5A6B9C")
Theft Alerts – Notifies owners if vehicle moves unexpectedly
No App Needed – Works on any mobile phone

Key Features:

6-digit encrypted codes (blocks hijacking)
2-week battery life (vs. 3 days for competitors)
Open-source firmware– Customizable for fleets

How we built it

Hardware:

ESP32 – WiFi/Bluetooth for future IoT expansion
SIM800L – SMS commands without internet
GPS MODULE – 2.5m accuracy in urban Lagos , Kano 12V Relay – Cuts ignition when theft detected

Software

Arduino (C++) – Ultra-low-power firmware
TinyGPS++ – Efficient location parsing
HTML, CSS and java script for web app Local Web Portal – Configure settings via WiFi

Security Rate-limited SMS auth – Prevents brute-force attacks
Tamper-proof casing – Triggers alerts if opened

Challenges We Ran Into

GSM Interference – First prototypes failed in high-density areas (fixed with shielded PCB design)
Component Costs – SIM800L prices spiked 300% in 2024 (switched to local suppliers)
GPS Dropouts – Added backup location averaging during signal loss

Biggest Hurdle: Testing in kano traffic revealed SMS delays—we added retries and dual-network fallback.

What We Learned

Hardware is Hard – PCB design flaws cost 3 months of rework
User Simplicity Wins – Changed SMS commands from "LOCATE#CODE" to "WHERE 5A6B9C"
Local Partnerships Matter – Lagos fabricators cut costs by 40%