Remotely read water meter

[HRH2009]

Recently had a water meter replaced. The replacement according to the technician doing the work would be monitored from the water companies' base, Severn Trent in this case.

Is this similar technology to a remotely read LPG tank? As the water meter is probably a foot under a heavy cast iron removable cover, how would a wireless signal work?

I am curious as this meter was replacing one fitted last summer which was readable from a near by vehicle.