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11 innovative car keys taking driving to a whole new level

The BMW 7-series' key has a full-color touch screen.

11 innovative car keys taking driving to a whole new level

Tesla's Model S key can be used to summon the car.

Tesla

Tesla's key fob was actually designed to look like a mini Tesla Model S

In addition to locking and unlocking the car doors, the Tesla key can be used to tell the car to pull forward and backward, all from a semi-remote distance and without anyone inside of the car.

Koenigsegg's shield fob looks like something a superhero would carry.

Koenigsegg

When locking and unlocking the doors of a Koenigsegg, you'll need something that can make as big of a statement as the car itself. 

Koenigsegg's metal shield key doesn't have any hugely crazy special features, but what it can give you is the sense of authority and a firm reminder that you drive an insane Swedish supercar. 

If driving one of these insane supercars doesn't give you the thrill or feel of power you were looking for, holding this awesome shield key fob just might.

This Ferrari key may not have any tech-savvy features, but the design is stunning.

This Ferrari key may not have any tech-savvy features, but the design is stunning.

First of all, it's a key with some weight to it. It's smooth and big enough that it's enjoyable to hold without being too clunky. Its functional purpose is hidden on the back, where there are three buttons to lock and unlock the doors as well as pop open the trunk.

To start the car, you stick the key in the ignition and then press a separate button on the steering wheel. In that regard, the key really only has an aesthetic purpose. But hey, with the classic prancing horse and deep red color, it's not something I would mind lugging around.

Unfortunately, the key only comes with older Ferrari models like the FF. Even Ferrari has given up the traditional key or a fob, but this one is still among our favorites.

Aston Martin's key fob is topped off with a crystal.

Aston Martin

Though it can only really handle the tasks of an average key fob, the aesthetics of this key make it much more special than most others out there.

Inserting this crystal key into the center of an Aston Martin's dashboard never gets old. 

McLaren's key reminds you lightness is key.

McLaren

If crystals aren't really your thing, maybe lightweight carbon fiber is.

McLaren's key has three buttons and is backed with a carbon fiber rear. 

Because you can never have too much carbon fiber.

Never.

Maserati's key flips out of a compact fob like a switch blade.

Maserati

It's a fob with the best of both worlds.

On one had, it has this really neat, smooth packaging so it fits squarely in your palm. It also offers all of the traditional functions of a fob, like the ability to lock, unlock, and pop open the trunk of the car. 

But on the other hand, in the fob is still a good ol' fashion key that swings out. 

It's a fun mix of old and new.

Pagani's aluminum key does more than just look good.

Pagani

Though Porsche and Tesla have similar offerings, Pagani's key fob is the one that truly stands out. 

First, it's the perfect cool looking desk ornament. 

Second, it's also a USB flash drive. 

Third, it's still a key.

How's that for multi-functional?

Corvette has a great, matte black box of a key.

Corvette has a great, matte black box of a key.

Most automakers stick to a rounded shape for their key fobs, but Corvette's black box fits the vibe of the souped-up muscle car. 

In addition to the typical fob functions, it also lets you remote start the car.

The Jaguar F-Pace Activity Key is the key to have if you hate using keys.

The Jaguar F-Pace Activity Key is the key to have if you hate using keys.

With the F-Pace's Activity Key, by holding your wrist up to the Jaguar badge on the rear of the car, you can lock or unlock the vehicle. And it's waterproof! 

The Activity Key is available as a $400 option. 

But if you hate even what we consider the crème de la crème of car keys, there's good news: Volvo is going to start getting rid of keys altogether.

But if you hate even what we consider the crème de la crème of car keys, there

Volvo will start selling cars that come with a Bluetooth-enabled digital key that lives on your smartphone. The digital key can lock, unlock, start, and drive the car.

Business Insider's Aaron Brown wrote a previous version of this article.


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