VNC Automotive
Date:
16th March 2026
Durabook has announced a collaboration with VNC Automotive, a specialist in in-vehicle connectivity and command technology.
“We’re proud to be partnering with Durabook to deliver state-of-the-art vehicle integration solutions that complement the Durabook R11. Durabook’s 40 plus years of experience, in the rugged devices market place, enables our partnership to bring this transformational technology to their existing customer base. Providing production ready, proven innovative technology solutions to end users is what this partnership is all about.”
– Tom Blackie, Founder and CEO, VNC Automotive
Durabook has announced a collaboration with VNC Automotive, a specialist in in-vehicle connectivity and command technology, bringing together the Cobalt Cube® platform and the Durabook R11 rugged tablet to support the operational needs of blue light and specialist fleet vehicles.
The partnership focuses on delivering a practical, vehicle-integrated command solution that allows mission-critical applications to be displayed and controlled directly through a vehicle’s existing Android Auto screen. The approach reduces the need for additional dashboard hardware, supporting safer, cleaner cabin environments while maintaining access to essential operational tools.
As police, emergency services and response fleets face increasing pressure around driver distraction, limited cabin space and vehicle conversion costs, the joint solution has been designed to work with modern vehicle interiors rather than against them. By avoiding permanent installations and using the vehicle’s built-in screen and audio systems, fleets can deploy technology without compromising safety, not voiding vehicle warranty or vehicle value.
At the centre of the solution is Cobalt Cube®, VNC Automotive’s compact, plug-and-play device that enables secure integration of tablets, laptops, phones and specialist equipment into the vehicle environment. When paired with the Durabook R11 rugged tablet, the system supports a range of blue light use scenarios, including mobile data terminal (MDT) access, camera and ANPR systems, and command-and-control applications.
The collaboration is positioned as a solution-led partnership, enabling VNC Automotive and Durabook to jointly support trials, demonstrations and customer engagement across the UK and European blue light sector. The approach allows services to explore real-world use scenarios before committing to full deployment, while maintaining flexibility across mixed and evolving fleets.
“Blue light organisations need technology that fits into the vehicle environment without adding complexity or compromising safety. By working with VNC Automotive, we are able to show how the Durabook R11 can be integrated cleanly into modern vehicles, giving officers and responders reliable access to critical applications while supporting flexible fleet deployment and long-term vehicle planning.”
– Yimin Chen, Sales Manager, Durabook
16th March 2026