Thinking about getting into automotive locksmithing? The Ilco EVOX makes cutting car keys accessible without requiring a shop full of equipment.
This compact key machine specializes in automotive edge-cut keys—the style used in most vehicles from the 1990s through today. Unlike traditional key duplicators that require manual setup and measurement, the EVO-X uses electronic decoding to automatically determine key cuts, making it much easier for someone learning the trade.
What Makes This Different from Basic Key Machines:
Most key duplicators you've seen are manual—you clamp the original key, clamp a blank, and trace the pattern. That works fine for house keys, but automotive keys (especially high-security types) require precise depth measurements and spacing. The EVO-X handles this electronically, which means:
- You can enter manufacturer key codes directly (if you have the code card from a car)
- The machine calculates the correct cuts automatically
- No need to manually measure bitting depths with gauges
- Built-in tablet interface walks you through the cutting process
Why Automotive Keys Are Different:
Car keys often have multiple security features that standard home keys don't have. They might use laser-cut edges, side-milled grooves, or high-security bitting that's hard to duplicate by sight. This machine handles edge-cut automotive keys and high-security variants, which covers a huge portion of vehicles on the road.
Portability for Mobile Work:
One unique feature is the integrated carry handle. If you're thinking about offering mobile locksmith services (going to customers instead of them coming to you), this machine is designed to fit in a van or truck without taking up your entire workspace. The chip tray collects metal shavings so you're not making a mess in your vehicle.
Future Residential Key Capability:
Ilco is releasing a free software update that will let this machine also cut residential edge-cut keys (standard house keys). This makes it more versatile if you're planning to offer both automotive and residential services.
Learning Curve:
The touchscreen interface is designed to be intuitive, but you'll still need to learn:
- Automotive key blank identification (which blank fits which car)
- How to read key codes and decode worn keys
- Basic machine calibration and maintenance
This isn't a "plug and play" solution for someone with zero locksmith knowledge, but it's significantly easier than traditional automotive key cutting methods.
Who This Is For:
- Aspiring locksmiths wanting to learn automotive work
- Hobbyists transitioning into professional services
- Mobile locksmiths needing a portable solution
- Anyone wanting to add automotive key cutting without investing in full-size equipment
Who This Isn't For:
- Anyone only cutting residential keys (basic duplicators are cheaper)
What's Included:
- EVOX machine with integrated tablet
- 4-position rotating jaw for different key types
- Electronic calibration system
- Built-in carry handle
- Chip collection tray
- Dealer code menu functionality
What You'll Also Need:
- Automotive key blanks (sold separately)
- Basic understanding of automotive key systems