Rockford Prime Mono Amps Shipping

TEMPE, Ariz. – Feb. 27, 2012 – Rockford Fosgate announced that its new Prime Series R250-1D and R500-1D mono block Class-D amplifiers are now shipping.

“We’re pleased to be able to offer better efficiency in our Prime mono-block amps through the implementation of Class-D circuitry,” explained Theresa Hephner, Rockford senior director, products and marketing. “The new R250-1D and R500-1D mono block amps provide the same high power as their predecessors with greater thermal longevity, built into a smaller chassis that will fit wherever the customer desires.”

 New Prime Series Mono Black Class-D Amplifier Specs & US Pricing:

 

Additional specs for the R250-1D and R500-1D Class-D amps include:

• 12 dB/oct Butterworth Crossovers
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 7.64in x 7.67in x 2.4in
• Remote Punch level control included
• 180 degree phase switch
• Continuously Variable On Board Punch EQ Control
• RCA Pass Through Outputs
• Real Time Output and Power Supply Thermal Sensing
• Extruded Aluminum Heat Sink
• On Board ATC Fusing
• 4 AWG Power/Ground Connectors
• MOSFET Power Supply
• Muted Turn On
• Short Circuit Protection
• CEA-2006 Compliant
• CE Compliant

For more information on Rockford Corporation, please visit www.rockfordcorp.com.

  About Rockford Corporation

Rockford Corporation markets and distributes high-performance audio systems for the mobile audio aftermarket and OEM market.  Headquartered in Tempe, Ariz., Rockford Corporation is a publicly traded company and manufactures its products under six brands: Rockford Fosgate(R), Rockford Acoustic Design(TM), Lightning Audio(R) and Brax, Helix and Renegade. For more information, please visit: www.rockfordfosgate.com, www.rockfordacousticdesign.com, www.lightningaudio.com, www.braxhifi.com, www.helixhifi.com and www.renegadecaraudio.com

Directus to Launch Add-A-Nav

Directus is re-branding its universal version of Prodigy One that adds features to most car audio systems and re-launching it under the name Add-A-Nav this spring.

The system is now a stripped down version of Prodigy One, which, as the name implies, adds only navigation to just about any aftermarket car radio or factory screen with a video input.   Users then get control over navigation through a separate remote control.

Directus says it hopes to “open up people’s minds to what screens are out there that we can add navigation to.  There are literally hundreds of possibilities.” Even difficult cars from Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Audi will accept Add-A-Nav, said Directus VP Sales Dennis Hopper.

Add-A-Nav will also work with some rear view mirror/monitors including OnStar.  It carries a suggested retail price of $699.

Source: CEoutlook

BestBuy.com Received 1 Billion Visits

Best Buy CEO Brian Dunn told showgoers at Mobile World Congress that BestBuy.com had 1 billion visits last year and its dot.com orders and units are up 33 percent.

Also, Dunn said of mobile phones purchased on BestBuy.com, 77 percent of those orders are picked up in a store on the same day, and 63 percent of those within 12 hours.

The comments came in Barcelona, Spain, as Dunn shared the stage with execs from eBay and IPG.

Best Buy said it now sells 25 million devices worldwide such as smartphones, tablets and ultrabooks that are “connected.”  It expects the number of connected devices it sells to double within the next five years, “making us the largest ‘enabler’ of connected mobile devices in the world,” said Dunn.

Source: Best Buy

New Apple iPad and Apple TV? Expected Next Week

Confirming reports earlier this month, Apple announced a press event for next Wednesday, March 7 where the next iPad is expected to be announced. Analysts are predicting it will include 4G Internet access, a faster processor, an improved touch screen.

And a report in 9to5Mac says the latest iPad will be joined by a new version of Apple TV that sports a faster processor.

Some reports say the new iPad will ship shortly following the event.

The press invitation says only, “We have something you really have to see. And touch,” and seems to show a section of the iPad.  The event will be held at 1 pm Eastern Standard Time in San Francisco.

Source: Reuters, 9t05Mac

Harman to Work with Texas Instruments

BARCELONA, Spain, Feb. 27, 2012  — HARMAN HAR +0.56% , the global audio and infotainment group, and Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) TXN -0.57% today announced a collaboration to bring TI’s OMAP(TM) 5 processors to HARMAN’s premium automotive infotainment platform. Together, TI and HARMAN will leverage the OMAP 5 processors’ smart multicore architecture to bring innovative, multimedia-rich experiences such as robust navigational tools, stunning 1080p graphics, interactive Web streaming and more to the world’s most sophisticated automobiles. The OMAP 5 processors work hand-in-hand with TI’s “Jacinto” automotive infotainment processors to provide a scalable platform with unparalleled automotive integration for HARMAN’s products.

“HARMAN seeks out partners that not only drive excellence in the automotive space, but transform the way passengers and drivers interact with automobiles,” said Michael Mauser, Executive Vice-president and Co-President Infotainment and Lifestyle at HARMAN. “TI’s OMAP and Jacinto automotive infotainment processors are successfully shipping in HARMAN platforms today, and the inclusion of OMAP 5 processors in upcoming platforms brings in-car experiences to the next level. The OMAP 5 architecture exceeded our expectations in supporting multimedia-rich features that our premium automotive customers demand for next-generation infotainment experiences.”

TI’s OMAP 5 processors stood as HARMAN’s architecture of choice for various reasons, including:

Premium graphics and video capabilities: The OMAP 5 processors’ superior graphics transform a car’s head unit into a centralized multimedia command center. The processors include dedicated 3D graphics and video accelerators that enable features such as full high-definition (HD) 1080p60 frames-per-second multi-standard video, multiple 1080p displays, stereoscopic-3D mapping graphics and compelling user interfaces that are safe and easy for drivers to navigate. OMAP 5 processors also include dual-channel memory and support for all major video codecs and APIs – features that are unmatched by competitors.

Fluid responsiveness: The OMAP 5 processors’ smart multicore architecture unleashes the high-performance and low-power capabilities necessary for collecting and displaying information and multimedia in real time. The processors intelligently run multiple applications in parallel, which allows car manufacturers to support various in-dash features through a single processor, without sacrificing performance.

Unmatched scalability: Understanding that the automotive market does not lend to a one-size-fits-all approach, TI’s automotive-grade OMAP 5 processors scale to address the unique needs of car manufacturers across the globe. The architecture supports all high-level operating systems and software, and is fully programmable and customizable so manufacturers and car makers can put a personalized mark on their automotive experiences.

“HARMAN is synonymous with sophistication in the automotive space, similar to how the OMAP family is synonymous with sophistication in the applications processor space,” said Remi El-Ouazzane, Vice President And General Manager, OMAP Platform Business Unit, TI. “We are proud to bring our expert teams together to fully leverage OMAP 5 processors’ capabilities in HARMAN’s premium automotive infotainment platforms. Automotive is one space in which innovation is bound to excel in coming years, and one that presents incredible opportunities for OMAP processors to create smarter, more intuitive user experiences.”

TI’s comprehensive automotive infotainment processors

Offering state-of-the-art performance, the OMAP 5 processors seamlessly integrate with TI’s scalable Jacinto family, which supports all automotive peripherals. Together, these automotive-grade processors provide a scalable solution with top-notch visual computing and entertainment capabilities, and unleash the high-performance and low-power capabilities necessary for collecting and displaying information and multimedia in real time. The processors support the industry’s largest number of standards and codecs, providing the flexibility to upgrade vehicle features and services during an automobile’s lifecycle.

About HARMAN

HARMAN ( www.harman.com ) designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of audio and infotainment solutions for the automotive, consumer and professional markets — supported by 15 leading brands, including AKG, Harman Kardon, Infinity, JBL, Lexicon and Mark Levinson. The company is admired by audiophiles across multiple generations and supports leading professional entertainers and the venues where they perform. More than 25 million automobiles on the road today are equipped with HARMAN audio and infotainment systems. HARMAN has a workforce of about 13,000 people across the Americas, Europe and Asia, and reported net sales of $4.2 billion for the 12 months ending December 31, 2011. The company’s shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol NYSE:HAR.

About Texas Instruments

Texas Instruments semiconductor innovations help 90,000 customers unlock the possibilities of the world as it could be – smarter, safer, greener, healthier and more fun. Our commitment to building a better future is ingrained in everything we do – from the responsible manufacturing of our semiconductors, to caring for our employees, to giving back inside our communities. This is just the beginning of our story. Learn more at www.ti.com .

BARCELONA, Spain, Feb. 27, 2012– HARMAN HAR +0.56% , the global audio and infotainment group, and Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) TXN -0.57% today announced a collaboration to bring TI’s OMAP(TM) 5 processors to HARMAN’s premium automotive infotainment platform. Together, TI and HARMAN will leverage the OMAP 5 processors’ smart multicore architecture to bring innovative, multimedia-rich experiences such as robust navigational tools, stunning 1080p graphics, interactive Web streaming and more to the world’s most sophisticated automobiles. The OMAP 5 processors work hand-in-hand with TI’s “Jacinto” automotive infotainment processors to provide a scalable platform with unparalleled automotive integration for HARMAN’s products.

“HARMAN seeks out partners that not only drive excellence in the automotive space, but transform the way passengers and drivers interact with automobiles,” said Michael Mauser, Executive Vice-president and Co-President Infotainment and Lifestyle at HARMAN. “TI’s OMAP and Jacinto automotive infotainment processors are successfully shipping in HARMAN platforms today, and the inclusion of OMAP 5 processors in upcoming platforms brings in-car experiences to the next level. The OMAP 5 architecture exceeded our expectations in supporting multimedia-rich features that our premium automotive customers demand for next-generation infotainment experiences.”

TI’s OMAP 5 processors stood as HARMAN’s architecture of choice for various reasons, including:

Premium graphics and video capabilities: The OMAP 5 processors’ superior graphics transform a car’s head unit into a centralized multimedia command center. The processors include dedicated 3D graphics and video accelerators that enable features such as full high-definition (HD) 1080p60 frames-per-second multi-standard video, multiple 1080p displays, stereoscopic-3D mapping graphics and compelling user interfaces that are safe and easy for drivers to navigate. OMAP 5 processors also include dual-channel memory and support for all major video codecs and APIs – features that are unmatched by competitors.

Fluid responsiveness: The OMAP 5 processors’ smart multicore architecture unleashes the high-performance and low-power capabilities necessary for collecting and displaying information and multimedia in real time. The processors intelligently run multiple applications in parallel, which allows car manufacturers to support various in-dash features through a single processor, without sacrificing performance.

Unmatched scalability: Understanding that the automotive market does not lend to a one-size-fits-all approach, TI’s automotive-grade OMAP 5 processors scale to address the unique needs of car manufacturers across the globe. The architecture supports all high-level operating systems and software, and is fully programmable and customizable so manufacturers and car makers can put a personalized mark on their automotive experiences.

“HARMAN is synonymous with sophistication in the automotive space, similar to how the OMAP family is synonymous with sophistication in the applications processor space,” said Remi El-Ouazzane, Vice President And General Manager, OMAP Platform Business Unit, TI. “We are proud to bring our expert teams together to fully leverage OMAP 5 processors’ capabilities in HARMAN’s premium automotive infotainment platforms. Automotive is one space in which innovation is bound to excel in coming years, and one that presents incredible opportunities for OMAP processors to create smarter, more intuitive user experiences.”

TI’s comprehensive automotive infotainment processors

Offering state-of-the-art performance, the OMAP 5 processors seamlessly integrate with TI’s scalable Jacinto family, which supports all automotive peripherals. Together, these automotive-grade processors provide a scalable solution with top-notch visual computing and entertainment capabilities, and unleash the high-performance and low-power capabilities necessary for collecting and displaying information and multimedia in real time. The processors support the industry’s largest number of standards and codecs, providing the flexibility to upgrade vehicle features and services during an automobile’s lifecycle.

About HARMAN

HARMAN ( www.harman.com ) designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of audio and infotainment solutions for the automotive, consumer and professional markets — supported by 15 leading brands, including AKG, Harman Kardon, Infinity, JBL, Lexicon and Mark Levinson. The company is admired by audiophiles across multiple generations and supports leading professional entertainers and the venues where they perform. More than 25 million automobiles on the road today are equipped with HARMAN audio and infotainment systems. HARMAN has a workforce of about 13,000 people across the Americas, Europe and Asia, and reported net sales of $4.2 billion for the 12 months ending December 31, 2011. The company’s shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol NYSE:HAR.

About Texas Instruments

Texas Instruments semiconductor innovations help 90,000 customers unlock the possibilities of the world as it could be – smarter, safer, greener, healthier and more fun. Our commitment to building a better future is ingrained in everything we do – from the responsible manufacturing of our semiconductors, to caring for our employees, to giving back inside our communities. This is just the beginning of our story. Learn more at www.ti.com .

HTC Phones to Create “New Car Experience”

HTC began heavily pushing quality audio when it partnered with Beats by Dre.  Now it wants to create a “completely new car experience,” it announced this week at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain.  The quote comes from the Boy Genius Report.

First,  HTC is offering an optional wireless “Car Stereo Clip” as an accessory that will play music from more than 50,000 Internet Radio stations through the car speakers.  Or you can play music from any service or app on your phone through the car speakers.

An HTC spokesperson said the car stereo clip plugs into any car radio with an audio-in jack.  Or it can connect to the radio via Bluetooth.  “It works in conjunction with a car mount that will charge your phone and automatically put it in “car mode” which allows you to “fat finger” through several menu screens of features most used while driving.”

The car stereo clip is available  for HTC’s new “One” series phones including the One X due in a U.S. version this spring from AT&T.  The phone embeds plenty of access to music.  According to the Boy Genius Report, it will wirelessly sync to iTunes and it provides Pandora, Spotify and TuneIn buil- in to the user interface.

The music is also processed through Beats Audio processing in the phone.

The HTC One X for the U.S. is a 4G LTE device with a dual core Snapdragon S4 processor and a 4.7 inch 720p HD screen.  There’s also a One S version due from T-Mobile in the U.S.  with a smaller screen at 4.3 inches.  Pricing has not been announced.

Source: HTC, Boy Genius Report

Get Ready for Quad Core Phones

Some of the world’s first quad core phones with blazing fast processor speeds were unveiled at Mobile World Congress this week in Barcelona, Spain.

12-volters will want to note that a faster processor means faster response time when linked to the car radio.

“It speeds up how fast the phone interacts with the car….If you’re used to pushing a button and waiting a half a second  before it launches it  may be a quarter of the  a second now,” said Dennis Hopper VP Sales of Directus.

Scosche also said the new phones will create “faster and more fluid connections” to the car radio.

The only catch is this first round of quad core phones are heading to European and other countries initially,  leaving the U.S. with only an envious glimpse of what’s to come.

Here are two of the new quad core phones announced this week:

LG Optimus 4X HD—The device gets early adopter points on two fronts:  It has a Tegra 3 quad core processor (at 1.5 GHz x 4)  and it runs the new Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) out of the box—no need to download it later, as in many of the newer smartphones that still ship with Android Gingerbread.  You get a roomy 4.7-inch screen with bright HD 1280 by 720 display and front/rear cameras (8MP and 1.3 MP).

 

HTC One X—This quad core (1.5 GHz x 4) phone is heading for Europe in April while the U.S. version, through AT&T, will only sport a dual core processor in order to work with AT&T’s 4G LTE network.  Europe gets a phone with Android 4.0 and large HD screen plus a Tegra 3 processor and Beats Audio.   The scaled back U.S. version at least provides Android Ice Cream Sandwich and Beats Audio and it should be available within 60 days. It has a generous 4.7-inch 720p HD screen and it promises a “completely new car experience” when used with a new car kit.

Then there’s a quad core Samsung Galaxy S III reported by Boy Genius Report.

Also unveiled at Mobile World Congress were new quad core models from Huawei and ZTE.

Source: CNET, Gizmag, PCWorld, TechRadar UK

Photo left via the Verge

 

Auto Page Redesigns C3 Web Site

Torrance, Calif. — Auto Page has redesigned the C3 website for the new C3 Hybrid.  Using Gen 2 technology, the new C3 Hybrid  has been more than 2-years in the making.

The home page demonstrates how C3 Hybrid works, frequently asked questions (FAQ’s), find a dealer, determine if your phone is compatible and a demonstration video.

The  C3 is a cell phone-based vehicle communication system.

The ‘What is C3’ page also features stand-alone features, hardware and service options and more.

The updated www.c3autopageusa.com web site lets you  check out how easy it is to get C3 on your iPhone, Android based smart phone and Blackberry smart phone from the App stores.  Also, C3 videos show the operation of C3 on each of three smart phone platforms.

About Auto Page: Auto Page Inc., who will be celebrating its 33-year anniversary on May 1, 2011, is one of the most experienced vehicle security companies in the U.S., leading in design and manufacturing of high quality security systems since 1979 and a wholly owned subsidiary of Iwata Electric Co. of Tokyo, Japan. Iwata has been an industry leader nearly 60 years, establishing a reputation for ingenuity in its engineering capability and innovative communication products. Auto Page and Iwata maintain a long tradition of providing the best value to their customers. Auto Page is winner of Best of Innovations Award for its C3, cell phone based GPS, Remote Car Starter and Security system.

Samsung Intro’s Car Mode App for Toyota

Samsung Electronics Co. announced it is collaborating with Toyota to create the Samsung Car Mode Application—an in-car solution that seamlessly connects Samsung smartphones to Toyota radios.

It will allow smoother integration for Internet services, multimedia and navigation.  And it will use “state of the art” voice command control and tap into location based services, said Samsung at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona this week, during the show that focuses on phones and mobile computers.

The app should be available during Q2 this year.

Just as it did at CES, the car industry seems to be making its presence known at Mobile World Congress. Ford  debuted at the show a European version of Sync.  See also “HTC Phones to Create “New Car Experience.”

Source: Engadget

Harman Wins Top Tech Award from Toyota

STAMFORD, Conn. – HARMAN, the global premium audio and infotainment group (NYSE:HAR), has been awarded a coveted Technology & Development Award by Toyota Motor Corp. The award, which honors innovation that helps the Japanese automaker develop a full line up of vehicles from sedans to SUVs with state-of-the-art technology, was presented to HARMAN executives on February 23 in Nagoya, Japan.

“This honor represents the commitment we have to working with Toyota to develop the most sophisticated audio and infotainment systems that buyers across all price points have come to expect,” said Dinesh C. Paliwal, Chairman, President and CEO of HARMAN.

Recent innovations HARMAN has introduced with Toyota include:

• The Toyota Touch & Go and Toyota Touch & Go Plus multimedia systems offer flexibility and affordability for the automaker’s European models, including the new Yaris, Verso S, Avensis, Prius and Hilux.  The system offers advanced Bluetooth and USB functions including e-mail and SMS integration along with downloadable applications from the Toyota Customer portal.  The navigation system was completely redesigned and offers a more user-friendly interface with new features such as safety camera and speed limit warnings along with online POI search capabilities through Google.
• The Toyota Entune™ multimedia system, which blends advanced automotive navigation with the connectivity and entertainment features of smartphones. Through voice commands, drivers can make hands-free calls, control music from multiple sources and interact with the navigation system. The system works with Android phones, Apple Inc.’s iPhone and Research in Motion’s BlackBerry. Entune is available on the Prius (pictured) and Camry, with more to come.
• The 2012 Toyota Prius, Prius+ and Camry are the first cars to offer the JBL GreenEdge™ audio system. GreenEdge reduces power consumption and heat generation while offering superior sound quality. GreenEdge audio components weigh less and take up less interior space.
• Mark Levinson premium audio system with GreenEdge technology making a more efficient and powerful audio system was recently launched on the all new Lexus GS.  Harman also provides JBL audio systems for a range of Toyota vehicles around the world including the Toyota Highlander, Land Cruiser, Avalon , 4-Runner, Sienna, Tacoma, Tundra, Verso, and Venza,.

About HARMAN

HARMAN (www.harman.com) designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of audio and infotainment solutions for the automotive, consumer and professional markets — supported by 15 leading brands, including AKG, Harman Kardon, Infinity, JBL, Lexicon and Mark Levinson. The company is admired by audiophiles across multiple generations and supports leading professional entertainers and the venues where they perform. More than 25 million automobiles on the road today are equipped with HARMAN audio and infotainment systems. HARMAN has a workforce of about 13,000 people across the Americas, Europe and Asia, and reported net sales of $4.2 billion for twelve months ending December 31, 2011. The Company’s shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol NYSE:HAR.

Feb 29 is D-Day for Backup Cameras

February 29 could prove a critical day for aftermarket sellers of backup cameras.

Unless there are further delays from the Fed, Wednesday is the day it should publish clear standards for backup camera inclusion in new cars.  This would mark a final stage in enacting a law requiring all new cars include back up cameras by 2014.

And the law is expected to generate a wave of media attention that could boost aftermarket sales.

“This is absolutely going to raise awareness, this is huge news,” said a spokeswoman for KidsandCars.org, which lobbied for the law.  It will cause people to think, “If it’s important enough to put on all new vehicles, then I should have one on my 2000 Chevy Tahoe.”

She called it the most significant safety event in the car since the advent of airbags.

Audiovox Electronics President Tom Malone believes there will still be strong aftermarket sales even after the 2014 deadline. So does Steelmate USA National Sales Manager John Lombard. “There will be a huge business for the guy who bought a new car but then thinks, ‘what about the one in the garage at home?  My wife’s car doesn’t have one,’” Lombard said.

The law is called the Cameron Gulbransen Kids Transportation Safety Act of 2008.

Industry members believe the final standards will be similar to the preliminary version which calls for a phased mandatory roll in of the cameras. Auto makers would be required to equip at least 10 percent of their fleet with the devices by 2012, 40 percent by 2013 and 100 percent by 2014.

Still, it is possible that February 29 may see the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA)  extend the phase-in periods.

The purpose of the law is to prevent injuries and deaths, often involving children, due to blind spots behind the vehicle.  NHTSA estimates that non-traffic vehicular incidents cause 33 deaths each week as well as 16,170 injuries per week indriveways and parking lots, with cars that are generally hardly moving.

Source: CEoutlook

Mercedes-Benz’s New Radio Works with Siri

Mercedes-Benz appears to be the first auto maker to include Siri in its infotainment system.

Drivers of an all-new A-Class that makes its debut on March 6, will be able to use Siri voice to access applications.

With Siri, drivers use natural speech for commands to send messages, select music, and make appointments.  They can also use Siri to check the weather or stock prices.

The new A-Class fully integrates with an iPhone so that all key functions are displayed on the car radio screen. It also works with apps including Facebook and Twitter and Garmin navigation.

Users must download a new Daimler free app called“Digital DriveStyle App.”

Other apps that work with the car include AUPEO! (a European version of Pandora) and a Car Finder app.

Source: CNET, Telematics News

 

 

 

Boston Acoustics Exits Car Audio Aftermarket

Boston Acoustics, a 23-year fixture in the car audiophile market is exiting the 12 volt aftermarket as of April.  The company will instead focus on its home audio products including speakers, soundbars and radios, and will also enter new home audio categories, said  Sanjay Sharma, national sales manager of Boston Mobile Audio.

The maker of GT amps and PRO speakers informed reps and key accounts this week, that it will exit the market by the end of April.  It has retained its manufacturer reps through that time period to ease the transition, it said.

Most of Boston’s inventory will be kept by the company to honor warranties.

Sharma said of the market exit, “This was not an easy decision.  We had analyzed both businesses and we were really focused on growth.  As a result we wanted to sharpen our focus on product categories related to the home.”

Boston Acoustics is owned by D&M Holdings which also owns Denon, Marantz, McIntosh Laboratory, Snell Acoustics and other brands.

Source: CEoutlook

Global Car Infotainment to Grow 3% in 2012

The global market for car infotainment systems will see a 3 percent increase this year and growth will be even stronger over the next four years, said IHS iSuppli.

More cars are in production and they are featuring more electronics over previous years, said the analyst firm.

Automotive infotainment revenue in 2011 reached $32.5 billion, up 3.4 percent from 2010.   And this followed a 4.6 percent increase in 2010.

Revenue this year should hit $33.5 billion and then growth will be even stronger over the next four years ranging from 4.7 to 6.4 percent.

By 2016, the market will reach $41.2 billion.

Automotive infotainment includes navigation systems, premium audio, telematics, fuel efficiency, safety and connectivity solutions.

Last year, the only country in the world where car production fell was Japan, which faced a disastrous earthquake last March.  All told, global car production rose 11 percent last year to 76.5 million units.

IHS iSuppli said, “The most important trend within the market continues to be the greater integration of infotainment features into vehicles’ central head units in the dashboard or front console.”  The new report is called; “Infotainment Outlook is Strong Following Solid Market Growth in 2011.”

Source: IHS iSuppli

Drivers Continue to Keep Cars Longer

U.S. drivers continue to hold onto cars for increasingly longer periods.   A new Polk study finds consumers keep their cars almost 6 years, up by 4.7 months from about a year ago.

This is the longest period of ownership since Polk began its study in 2001.

Used car owners are also keeping their cars longer, or just over 6 years; also a record to date.

Polk also found that the average age of light vehicles on the road reached a record high of almost 11 years in 2011.

Source: Automotive News 

Photo via Junky Car Club

Scosche Announces Availability of iPad 2 Kit for RSE

Oxnard, CA – February 22, 2012 – Scosche Industries announced the availability of the new Scosche backSTAGE pro II – headrest mount for iPad 2.  The mount secures an iPad 2 to the back of any headrest so passengers can enjoy handsfree viewing of movies, apps and more.  The backSTAGE pro II has been crash test approved to ensure that it will remain securely attached to a headrest during and an accident and its rugged aluminum construction will keep an iPad 2 safe and sound.

“The backSTAGE pro and pro II provide backseat passengers with a convenient and safe way to watch movies and more while on the go,” said Kas Alves, Executive Vice President of Scosche Industries.  “Their universal design makes installation a snap in any car or truck.”

backSTAGE pro II tilts for optimal viewing angles, and easily detaches for theft prevention. The included charger plugs directly into the headrest mount and provides a continuous charge to the iPad 2. Users can connect wireless IR headphones for private listening and the mount also provides a USB port that supports flash drives for viewing images.

Original iPad owners can get all the same great features and functionality with the backSTAGE pro for iPad.

The Scosche backSTAGE pro II for iPad 2 and backSTAGE  pro for iPad are available now at Scosche.com for $149.99.

Follow Scosche at twitter.com/scosche or facebook.com/scosche for the latest news on all of Scosche’s award-winning products.

About Scosche Industries:

Founded in 1980, Scosche Industries is an award-winning innovator of iPad, iPhone and iPod accessories. Scosche is founded on its commitment to quality, value and customer service. With over 95 patents and countless industry awards it is easy to see that Scosche is consistently at the forefront of technology and innovation.  Scosche Industries is the parent company of several distinct brands including: Scosche, REALM, EFX, BlueFusion and Accumat. Founded in 1980, Scosche is still 100% family owned and operated with over 150 great people alongside them. For more information visit our website at www.scosche.com.

National Sales Executive Wanted

Planet Audio, a So Cal based car audio/video manufacturer, is seeking a high achieving executive with National Sales experience.

The ideal candidate should have several years of exposure in the sales and marketing of 12 Volt audio/video products with a successful track record with both retail and wholesale accounts.

Position is corporate office-based  and candidate must be flexible to travel nationwide.

Excellent compensation package is available for the right candidate.

Please send your professional work history in Word format to:  ray.mostafavi@planetaudiousa.com

First Blind Spot Detector for Aftermarket Due

The first standalone, automatic blind spot detector for the aftermarket is due later this year from Steelmate USA.

The company, which specializes in backup cameras, plans to offer a blind spot detector for less than $399 in August or September. It will alert drivers to a car in the next lane if they try to change lanes.

While retailers have expressed interest in blind spot detectors, and while they are growing in popularity in new cars,  the aftermarket has yet to provide a standalone product in the category,

Steelmate’s unit would link to the car’s OBD II port.  The car’s “brain” knows when the steering wheel is turned, so the system would activate left and right cameras placed around the car if the driver turns his wheel more than 5 degrees in either direction.

The system includes a black box, an ODB II interface and it accepts 4 cameras. It requires professional installation, said Steelmate’s John Lombard.

A survey last year from ABI Research found that the amount of money drivers will spend on blind-spot detection systems will surge by more than a factor of 20 from 2011 through 2016, as car companies such as Ford, include them on budget-friendly cars.  Blind spot detector sales revenues should increase from about $570 million in 2011 to $12 billion in 2016.

Source: CEoutlook

Photo via Jalopnik

JL Audio Slash v3 Amplifiers: Back in Black

Miramar, FL—In 2012, JL Audio is unleashing the latest edition of its Slash amplifiers. The Slash v3’s feature an all-black look with significant changes under the hood as well.

The patented Class D output circuitry in the monoblocks has been enhanced to deliver 20% more power than the previous generation amplifiers. On-board signal processing includes a parametric equalizer and highly advanced crossover controls.

The companion four-channel amplifier is the 300/4v3, offering 75W x 4 from JL Audio’s patented Absolute Symmetry Class A/B output stage.

All models feature JL Audio’s R.I.P.S. (Regulated Intelligent Power Supply) technology to maintain consistent power over a wide range of load impedances and supply voltages, as well as Advanced Rollback Thermal protection to keep your music playing under the most demanding conditions.

300/4v3

Continuous Power: RMS method, 11-V – 14.4V @ <0.03% THD+N 4 x 75W @ 1.5 – 4 ohms

2 x 150W @ 3-8 ohms (Bridged)

Frequency Response: 5 Hz – 30 kHz (+0, – 1 dB)

Damping Factor: >200 @ 4 ohms

Dimensions (H x W x D): 2.36 x 9.25 x 13.4 in (60 x 235 x 340 mm)

Availability:  First Quarter 2012

Suggested Retail Price:  USD $649.95/each

 

600/1v3

Continuous Power: RMS method, 11-V – 14.4V @ <0.05% THD+N 600W @ 1.5 – 4 ohms

Frequency Response: 5-250 Hz (+0, – 1 dB)

Damping Factor: >500 @ 4 ohms

Dimensions (H x W x D): 2.36 x 9.25 x 13.4 in (60 x 235 x 340 mm)

Availability:  First Quarter 2012

Suggested Retail Price:  USD $699.95/each

1200/1v3

Continuous Power: RMS method, 11-V – 14.4V @ <0.05% THD+N 1200W @ 1.5 – 4 ohms

Frequency Response: 5-250 Hz (+0, – 1 dB)

Damping Factor: >500 @ 4 ohms

Dimensions (H x W x D): 2.36 x 9.25 x 19.7 in (60 x 235 x 500 mm)

Availability:  Second Quarter 2012

Suggested Retail Price:  USD $1299.95/each

About JL Audio

Founded in 1975 in Miramar, Florida, JL Audio is a privately held American company manufacturing high-end audio solutions for the home, mobile and marine audio markets. JL Audio products are sold exclusively by specialty retailers throughout the U.S.A. and are distributed in seventy-two countries around the world.  Recipient of numerous awards and accolades, JL Audio loudspeakers, amplifiers and subwoofers have been awarded fourteen U.S. patents for innovative audio technology.

Facebook: @jlaudio        Twitter @jlaudio

Emerging Car Technology Tested by CR

A new car safety technology that could be an important future aftermarket car AV product has been tested by Consumer Reports, which gave it a thumbs up.

The technology, in both aftermarket and OEM forms, is vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communications—cars “talking” to each other.

General Motors is already working on an app that links with a car radio’s video display and audio system to allow V2V communication.  The app relies on a smartphone to pick up the wireless signal for the V2V network (a special V2V network was set aside by the Fed a decade ago).

GM is also working on a stand-alone portable transponder about the size of a portable GPS navigator.

Consumer Reports announced, after testing out V2V (or V2X, as it sometimes called), that “Consumer Reports believes that the potential safety benefits of this technology make it worth pursuing…”

V2V technology could alert you if a nearby driver is running a red light, with enough time so you can hit the brakes.   And it can stop you from making a left hand turn into oncoming traffic.

Officials say it is more effective and cheaper to deploy than current safety devices such as blind spot detectors.

Two of Consumer Reports’ journalists who tested V2V were “impressed with the effectiveness and potential safety benefits of the systems,” they said.

The V2V network allows each car to transmit information up to 1,000 feet around it, and each car sends signals out about its speed and location at a rate of 10 times a second.

“The past 50 years have been about surviving vehicle crashes; the next 50 will be about preventing them,”  stated Gregory Winfree of the Dept. of Transportation.

As we noted in January, the aftermarket may play a critical role in the deployment of V2V technology as the more cars that use it, the more effective the system becomes.

“It only works if you’re equipped and everybody else around you is equipped,” says Mike Shulman, technical leader at Ford. “And how do you go from a world where nobody’s got it to a world where everybody’s got it?”

So a number of car makers and aftermarket companies are researching aftermarket options, including those from GM mentioned above.

V2V could prevent about 80 percent of crashes (other than those relating to drunk driving).

Here is the Consumer Reports article.

Source: Consumer Reports

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