Weego, innovator of portable jump starters and rechargeable battery packs, announced Efrain “Frank” Rodriguez as the company’s senior engineer and Berdj Mazmanian as senior product manager. Between Frank and Berdj, both professionals have held high-level engineering and/or design and development positions at Recoton Corporation, Mattel, Inc., BPG International and Sirius Satellite Radio and are jumping right in to kick off 2016 with new and unique Weego products.

Frank holds several patents and brings 30 years of experience as a product innovator, developing and creating new concepts. As senior engineer, Frank will utilize his experience in the mass-market, consumer products industry to drive new product development for Weego. In Frank’s past positions, he produced consumer electronic accessories from audio equipment to childhood learning toys and also managed a research laboratory developing electronic devices for the mass market.

Berdj brings Weego more than 20 years of experience in new product development and design, in both management and director roles. In Berdj’s past positions, he was responsible for consumer product categories ranging from children’s toys and collectibles to bath and air care products for the home. Most recently Berdj managed all project schedules, deliverables and account relationships at Works Design Group, a full-service product packaging and marketing creative agency.   

“With incredibly extensive backgrounds and first-hand knowledge of the consumer electronics’ marketplace, I have no doubt Berdj and Frank will be a valuable contribution to our team’s creative force in growing the Weego brand,” said Gerry Toscani, CEO of Weego. “Frank brings a strong technical, engineering foundation allowing us to make innovative product decisions, while Berdj is highly skilled in project and product management, research and packaging development of new products. We expect that as a team, both hires will immediately fast-track the creation of more innovative, safe and high quality portable power products and accessories for everyone!”

Weego brings power to consumers with their growing line of portable jump starters, battery packs and accessories. Weego Jump Starter Battery+ is capable of getting motorists, boaters and adventure riders out of a drained battery jam by starting an engine, charging a phone and fitting in your pocket. Weego products are essential for everyone, providing peace of mind in emergencies and in everyday use.

For more information about Weego and their full line of products, including fun videos, please visit www.myweego.com.

K40 Electronics announced the appointment of Paragon Sales and Marketing of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., as its manufacturers’ representative for Southern California.

Bill McKinley, principle of Paragon, knows first-hand what products and brands will be successful in the mobile electronics industry. With nearly 30 years of experience, from running multiple store operations to working on the manufacturing side, he’s a seasoned veteran whose wisdom can help the specialty retailer grow their business.

“I watched K40 for many years while on the manufacturer and distributor side of the business because I always heard how they are the category leaders in terms of product, profit, and support,” said McKinley. “They truly understand the specialty retailer and are dedicated to providing what they need to be successful. In returning to my roots of growing business at the retail level, K40 is the brand that delivers specialty retailer success.”

“With Bill’s industry insights and commitment to the independent retail mobile electronics retailer, selecting his firm as a business partner is a key component for our aggressive California dealer network expansion plans for 2016 and beyond,” said Rachel Clark, K40’s National Sales Director. “By joining other esteemed Paragon-represented brands such as Focal, Arc Audio, and Audio Control, K40’s reputation as a highest quality, highest performance brand is solidified.”

AAMP has released the American International TOY971 and Best Kits BKTOY971 installation dash kits designed for the 2016 Toyota Tacoma (base model).  

These new American International and Best Kits dash kits facilitate the installation of a single ISO radio with a pocket below or one double DIN (2-DIN) radio in the factory radio location.  Both kits are painted in a satin black finish for an attractive original equipment (OE) factory look.  The kit includes the main bezel with a removable pocket, side brackets, hardware and instruction manual.

For a complete installation solution AAMP offers the optional American International TWH950 wire harness and LX8 antenna adapter and Best Kits BHA1761 wire harness and BAA44 antenna adapter.

Looking back at 2015's top stories, none shines brighter than the cover story from the November issue of Mobile Electronics, "Fishman Returns." The article covers the career of Dave "Fishman" Rivera, from his humble beginnings to his ascension to the top of the industry and aftermath. In case you missed it, here is that article:

There are lots of fish in the sea. Millions, in fact. Of those millions, there are three distinct classes: those without jaws, those with cartilage and those with bones. Only the bone class have flexible spines. Those fish include the penguin tetra and zebra danio. But there is another fish that has a spine and is also know for being named after another animal: the catfish. 

For over two decades, Dave "Fishman" Rivera has been building show cars using parts donated from manufacturers in exchange for a partnership and stake in the future of 12-volt. As a self-proclaimed "catfish," Rivera claims his struggles maintaining both personal and professional relationships have proven he must have nine lives to have survived this long in the industry. If his continued work and currnet reputation are any indication, Rivera likely has plenty of lives left, of which he hopes to use to help bring the 12-volt industry back to the heyday he helped create. 

Fresh off of being awarded the first Mobile Electronics Career Achievement award at the 2015 Industry Awards, Fishman is hard at work on what he considers to be his biggest goal: to unite the industry in a common goal. 

TO READ THE COMPLETE ARTICLE CLICK HERE

Montreal, 15th December 2015 - Fortin is announcing its release of an exclusive HONDA 3X Lock and stand alone remote starter solution. 

Fortin releases an exclusive HONDA 3X Lock and stand alone solution for remote starter and security system installations. The module now monitors and controls the OEM remote while the engine is running. Popular long range RF Kits can also be connected directly to the module. 

3 T-Harnesses cables are now also available to help installers to keep the original ignition and immobilizer wiring intact and to speed-up their installations. THAR-ONE-HON1 works for 2008+ key vehicles, THAR-ONE-HON2 works for 2012+ key vehicles and THAR-ONE-HON3 works for 2013+ push-to-start vehicles. These 3 harnesses are exclusive to the EVO-ONE Fortin module. 

The EVO-ONE is an all-in-one immobilizer bypass, door lock, digital high current remote starter & security system. 
Fortin Electronic Systems is a world leading developer and manufacturer of integrated consumer 
solutions for vehicle control and connectivity.

Visit Fortin.ca to discover more remote starter, bypass and security system solutions. 

WorldDAB is hosting a workshop on the role of digital radio in connected vehicles. The event will take place during the Geneva auto show on March 8, 2016.

At the show, several major car brands will display new models that come with digital radio reception built in. The conference will look at the content car buyers can expect, the changing user interfaces, and the benefits to connected drivers.

The event will feature speakers from the automotive and broadcast industries. During the afternoon, four modules will focus on the role of broadcasters and automakers, connectivity issues, dealerships and safety.

Visitors to the Geneva auto show can come to the conference free of charge.

Impecca, a leader of impeccably designed audio, video, digital photo, computer peripherals, window/portable air conditioners, and kitchen and home appliances, has announced the Impecca Poweritup 2-in-1 USB Car Adapter and 3,000mAh Power Bank to charge smartphones and tablets in your car or on the go.

The Poweritup USB Car Adapter charges devices while in the car through the car’s cigarette lighter and the Poweritup 3,000mAh Power Bank charges devices everywhere on the go with an extended up to two year standby time so you can keep it in your car, bag, briefcase, or purse and charge devices anytime without worrying that the power bank has been discharged.  
 
Save Money & Space -- Packs 2 Functions in 1 Device - Charges Over 1,000 Times
 
Priced at only $29.95 at: http://www.impecca.com/pbc-3012k.html, the Poweritup USB Car Adapter/Power Bank saves money and space by providing 2 functions: USB car charging and mobile power bank charging. Poweritup charges over 1,000 times and saves time by charging in only 2-3 hours instead of overnight. In addition, Poweritup also protects against overcharging and over current with a replaceable fuse and features a comfortable ergonomic design with a rubberized non-slip finish to keep you from dropping it. Its 4 level LED battery indicator also lets you know how much charging power is left, so there are never any surprises.

Poweritup USB Features:

• PowerItUp 2 in 1 USB Car Adapter and 3,000mAh Power Bank.
• 3,000mAh Lithium-ion Battery Cell.
• Charges smartphones and tablets.
• Extended standby time: up to 2 years.
• 4 Level LED Battery Indicator.
• Power Bank charges itself in 2-3 hours.
• Comfortable ergonomic design with non-slip rubberized finish.
• Overcharge and over current protection with replaceable fuse.
• Life Cycle: 1000+ Times.
• Charges via car’s cigarette lighter 12V-24V DC/500MA.
• USB output: 5V/2.1A.

The Impecca Poweritup USB Car Adapter & 3,000mAH Power Bank is available immediately priced at $29.95 from Impecca.com at: http://www.impecca.com/pbc-3012k.html  and other fine retailers. For more information, see http://www.impecca.com, Twitter: @impeccausa.

DEI, the leading thermal control specialist for the automotive aftermarket since 1995, now offers the Ultra 47™ Turbo Shield.  This new affordably priced shield, introduced at the 2015 SEMA Show, is designed for either OEM or aftermarket T-3 (#010172) and T-4 (#010173) turbos.

The Ultra 47 turbo shield significantly decreases turbo lag and spool time for quicker power and increased torque.  More heat is kept inside the turbo manifold increasing exhaust gas velocity for increased boost pressure.  Reduced under the hood temperature also ensures cooler intake charges, adds protection of vacuum lines and wiring harness from excessive heat and improves radiator performance.

It is a skillfully constructed, tri-layer material design that uses advanced technology to ensure heat stays where it belongs – inside the turbocharger.  The outer shell is made of aluminum impregnated glass fiber with a high temperature insulating mat core and a silica glass blended interior liner.  Double stitched seams and smooth capped anchor points, distinguish this shield as a true Made in the USA quality product. The shield covers aftermarket turbos – Garrett, Precision, TIAL, Turbonetics or Borg-Warner.

The Ultra Shield Turbo Kit, also available for the T3 (#010174) and T4 (#010175) comes complete with one 2” x 15’ roll of black thermal pipe wrap, two 20” stainless steel locking ties and 5’ of fastening wire.

For more information about the Ultra 47 turbo shield and turbo shield kit, check out the new 2016 DEI product catalog, visit  www.DesignEngineering.com, call DEI at 800-264-9472, or e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. To keep up with the latest new thermal control performance products from Design Engineering, Inc. (DEI), like us on Facebook, or follow on Twitter.

The Los Angeles Auto Show (LA Auto Show) announced four additions to its Connected Car Expo® (CCE) advisory board for 2016. Damon Lavrinc of Automatic Labs, Justin Fishkin of Local Motors, Derek Kan of Lyft and Linda Campbell of QNX Software Systems Limited join nine returning board members from thought leading companies including Aeris, Elektrobit, Ellis and Associates, the City of Los Angeles, Google, Nokia Growth Partners, NVIDIA, Pandora and Strategy Analytics.

Andy Gryc of CX3 Marketing will return as Conference Director, and together with the advisory board, will set the strategic direction and focus of CCE’s conference agenda as well as select the second annual Top 10 Automotive Start-ups. CCE is held in conjunction with the LA Auto Show Press and Trade Days and will take place on Tuesday, November 15, 2016.

"We’re thrilled to continue building a network of top experts to elevate the connected car conversation," said Lisa Kaz, President of the LA Auto Show and CCE. "Year after year, the board continues to lead new and innovative discussions on technology in automotive and transportation industries; and we’re excited to see what 2016 will bring.”

About the New CCE Advisory Board Members:

• Damon Lavrinc, Head of Content and Outreach at Automatic Labs

Damon Lavrinc is the Head of Content and Outreach at Automatic Labs, a Bay Area startup that builds connected car products to empower drivers. For the past decade he's covered the auto and tech industries as the Silicon Valley Editor for Jalopnik, Transportation Editor at Wired and editor at Autoblog. Lavrinc has written for a variety of automotive and lifestyle publications focused on transportation technology, connectivity and personal mobility.

• Justin Fishkin, Chief Strategy Officer, Local Motors

Justin Fishkin is the Chief Strategy Officer of Local Motors, a technology company that designs, builds and sells vehicles. Local Motors’ platform combines global co-creation with local micro-manufacturing to bring hardware innovations (like the world’s first 3D-printed car) to market at unprecedented speed. He marries a lifelong dedication to sustainability and making a difference in the world with a background in finance and investing. Prior to joining Local Motors, Fishkin served as Senior Portfolio Manager of Carbon War Room, an organization founded by Sir Richard Branson to identify and incubate entrepreneurial solutions to climate change. He began his career in investment banking at Goldman Sachs and later became an investor. He earned his BA in Economics from Duke University.

• Derek Kan, General Manager, Lyft

Derek Kan is the General Manager of Lyft and was recently nominated by President Obama to the Board of Directors of AMTRAK. Prior to this role, he served as Director of Strategy at a biotech startup, Management Consultant at Bain & Company, Advisor at Elliott Management, Policy Advisor to Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell and the Chief Economist for the Senate Republican Policy Committee. Kan started his career as a Presidential Management Fellow at the White House Office of Management and Budget. He earned his BS from the University of Southern California, M.Sc from the London School of Economics and MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business, where he graduated as an Arjay Miller Scholar.

• Linda Campbell, Strategic Accounts, QNX Software Systems, a BlackBerry Subsidiary

Linda Campbell has held a variety of roles within the sales and marketing organization at QNX Software Systems. Prior to relocating to Silicon Valley, she was responsible for creating and managing QNX Software Systems’ strategic alliances practice - building an award-winning technology ecosystem comprising hundreds of hardware, software and services partners globally. Campbell is also the co-founder of the Women in Automotive Technology, a Silicon Valley group dedicated to driving the industry forward by fostering connections between women, ideas and industry.

Returning CCE Advisory Board members include:

• Michelle Avary, Vice President, Automotive Product and Strategy, Aeris

Michelle Avary is responsible for the overall management of Aeris’ automotive strategy, product planning and business development. A 17-year veteran of automotive telematics, Avary previously led Toyota Motor Sales' telematics strategies. Most recently she was the Director of Technology Strategy for Harman International where she led the development of technology strategies for all of Harman’s business lines.

• Bryan Biniak, EIR, Nokia Growth Partners

Bryan Biniak is currently an Entrepreneur in Residence at Nokia Growth Partners which recently launched a $100 million Connected Car Fund. Previously, he was the General Manager of developer experiences at Microsoft where he was responsible for driving innovation with the company’s global developer community and growth of the broader ecosystem across Microsoft’s technologies, products and services portfolio including Windows, Mobile Devices, Xbox, IoT and Azure. Prior to Microsoft, Biniak was Global Vice President and General Manager at Nokia.

• John Ellis, Founder & Managing Director, Ellis and Associates

John Ellis is a software developer and business development veteran with over 25 years of experience. Formerly the Global Technologist for Ford’s connected car business unit as well as an executive with Motorola, he has delivered award-winning products and programs including opensource.motorola.com, developer.motorola.com, SmartDeviceLink, MyFordMobile, and developer.ford.com. Ellis actively consults to clients on the space where automotive, consumer, connectivity and software all intersect as well as serves as the lead instructor for the Connected Vehicle Professional certificate course managed by the Society of Automotive Engineers, Connected Vehicle Trade Association and Mobile Comply.

• Roger C. Lanctot, Associate Director, Global Automotive Practice, Strategy Analytics

Roger Lanctot brings more than 25 years of experience in electronics industry market research, consulting and journalism to the board. Lanctot advises clients on in-vehicle safety, infotainment and connectivity systems anticipating market, regulatory, and technological developments in hardware, software and business models.

• Peter Marx, Chief Technology Officer, City of Los Angeles

Peter Marx oversees the implementation of new tools and technologies across L.A. city government to better solve problems for residents and make City Hall work more efficiently and effectively. In addition, he partners with L.A.'s growing tech industry to deploy innovative technology and promote local job creation. Before joining the Mayor's Office, Marx served as the Vice President of Business Development at Qualcomm Labs, Inc. and was the Vice President of the Technology and Digital Studio at Mattel, Inc.

• Chris McKillop, Manager, Android Platform, Google

Chris McKillop leads an engineering team responsible for living room and entertainment products within Google’s Android organization. He was previously Vice President of Software at Jawbone; Sr. Director, webOS Linux at Palm; Team Lead, iOS WiFi & Bluetooth at Apple and a Software Engineer at QNX Software Systems.

• Manuela Papadopol, Director, Global Marketing, Elektrobit

Manuela Papadopol is responsible for the overall development and execution of global marketing strategy for Elektrobit. She also holds a patent in voice-activated acquisition of non-local content. Prior to joining Elektrobit, Papadopol served as a global marketing manager for automotive programs at Microsoft and as global marketing manager at the Tweddle Group. She began her business career in public relations and marketing at BMW in 1996, moving to Mercedes Benz as a public relations manager in 2000. Fluent in German, Spanish, English and Romanian, she holds a degree in communications from the Romanian-American University in Bucharest and a post-graduate degree in public relations from the University of Washington.

• Danny Shapiro, Senior Director of Automotive, NVIDIA

Danny Shapiro is the Senior Director of NVIDIA’s automotive business unit focused on developing autonomous vehicle hardware and software platforms that integrate computer vision, deep learning and sensor fusion. He is a 25-year veteran of Silicon Valley tech firms, having served in marketing, business development and engineering roles.

• Geoff Snyder, Vice President of Business Development, Automotive and Connected Devices, Pandora

Geoff Snyder is focused on the extension of Pandora into vehicles and connected devices. As consumers demand better music experiences at home and in the car, he is focused on developing relationships with representatives of the world’s top automotive and consumer electronics brands, working as a liaison between engineering and business teams to make personalized radio widely available on-the-road and in the home.

• CCE Conference Director: Andy Gryc, Co-founder, CX3 Marketing

Andy Gryc is a well-known automotive technology evangelist whose reputation in the industry is rooted in his hands-on experience in the automotive and embedded trenches – software architecture and engineering, technical sales and product marketing – for well over two decades at companies like QNX, OnStar and HP. Through CX3 Marketing, he lends his industry knowledge, technology insights and marketing expertise to analysts, journalists and companies throughout the automotive industry.

The LA Auto Show and CCE will announce more details, including session and discussion topics and industry expert participants over the coming months. For more information, please visit http://www.connectedcarexpo.com and http://www.laautoshow.com/.

AudioControl announced that at the 2016 International CES Expo in Las Vegas, they will be introducing their new line-up of high-performance DSP matrix-processors, and their first ever full-range processing amplifiers.

Additionally they will be unveiling a major update to the merchandising of their products, all to be unveiled on day one of CES 2016. All products have been directly influenced by leading installers throughout the USA and worldwide, to further push forward AudioControl's mission of 'Making Good Sound Great™'.

New Digital Signal Processors 

AudioControl will debut two new matrix-processors at CES 2016, designed, engineered and manufactured in the USA. Both models include AudioControl's new DSP software platform, designed to deliver its new 'Smart-user' installer interface with software-ergonomically designed features to simplify and provide the best installer real-time user experience. The DM-810 has eight active high-level speaker inputs, six pre-amp inputs, and two digital inputs plus ten pre-amp outputs. The DM-608 has six eight active high-level speaker inputs, six pre-amp inputs, and two digital inputs plus eight pre-amp outputs.

AudioControl's 'Smart-user' interface contains the power of AudioControl processing through a flexible DSP PC interface packed full of features and simply laid out including 30-bands of EQ adjustment, parametric filters, signal time-alignment, input delay, phase correction, AudioControl AccuBASS™, GTO turn on circuit, as well as integrated input and output RTA's. This exciting new platform also incorporates a connectivity port that will allow users to program DSP features using Android or iOS devices, as well as stream media including high quality lossless audio via an optional AudioControl Bluetooth device.

"Given our leading position in high performance factory-radio and after-market signal processing, our dealers have been asking us to complement our leading audio-processors by offering powerful AudioControl DSP processors", commented Chris Bennett, AudioControl's National Sales Manager of Mobile Electronics. "Our product engineering and software design teams collaborated together to bring to the market a completely new series of DSP performance processors with the smartest, most powerful DSP software to simplify and create the best user experience and entertainment performance in the market today for all cars".

New Full Range Car Amplifiers:

On the back of AudioControl's successful launch of 'The Epicenter' subwoofer amplifiers, introduced in 2015, AudioControl has built on this success with the introduction of its first line-up of full-range amplifiers. These new models superbly complement the award-winning 'The Epicenter 1200™' and "The Epicenter 600™' subwoofer amplifiers.

The new models initially feature two 4-channel models and feature over 200 watts RMS at 2 Ohms. The LC-4.800 and D-4.800 (The D-4.800 incorporates AudioControl's new Smart-User DSP software platform) models have six/eight high-level speaker inputs that allow for signals to be summed directly into the amplifier. AudioControl has also included much of its signal processing technology including features of its popular LC2i,  AccuBASS™ bass management, GTO™ Great-Turn-ON, as well as Linkwitz-Riley Crossovers and more. 

The D-4.800 benefits from being a full DSP Amplifier incorporating AudioControl's new matrix-processing Smart-User software developed for its DM-810 and DM-608 DSP Processor line-up.

Bennett continued "Our dealers have been asking for the best in amplification from AudioControl and we have delivered a unique line up of new full-range amplifiers that will lead the way where the user truly wants to step up the performance and power of their audio system - Our new 'LC Series' and 'D Series' Amplifiers are truly "no ordinary amplifiers" and the first in a range of AudioControl amplifiers unlike any other on the market today!"

AudioControl will be debuting all its new processors and Amplifiers at International CES 2016, Booth number 2112 in the North Hall. All models are expected to start shipping early in 2016. All AudioControl products carry AudioControl's 5-year limited warranty.

AVIDWORX, with the support of Chris Cook at Mobile Electronics and Amy Gilroy at CE Outlook, is once again hosting a fundraiser for the family of Lance Putnam, wife Jenny, son Sawyer (10) and daughter Sydney (8). Lance passed away in 2014 after a valiant battle with cancer, leaving a hole to fill at home, at his business and in the 12-volt industry.

Last year, friends and supporters raised over $1,650 to help the family through their first Christmas. A year later, the family is still recovering from their loss, and could use a little help to make this year’s Christmas merry. AVIDWORX is looking to raise at least $1,000 to help out the family once again.

“Lance was a true visionary in our industry,” said Marcel Newell, president of AVIDWORX. “He dedicated so much time to bringing retailers together and raising the profile and professionalism of the industry. He loved to help, and to help others be successful.

“He was always an optimist, and always put others first. He gave so much. Now it’s our turn to give something back.”

The family used the funds last year to go on a family vacation, swimming with the dolphins at Discovery Cove in Orlando, and making stops at Sea World and Aquatica.

"We had an absolute blast," said Jenny. "I want to thank all of you who made that trip possible. Sydney is fairly shy (not at all like Lance), and didn't want to smile for the photographer in the pictures, but she absolutely could not help smiling when she got to swim with the dolphins. Thank you so much for your kindness and generosity. God bless you."

The fundraiser is online at YouCaring.com. The URL is:

https://www.youcaring.com/wife-jenny-and-children-sawyer-10-and-sydney-8-479478

Or http://tinyurl.com/zscmupu

Any size of donation is appreciated.

Lance Putnam was the owner and operator of Audio Center in Lexington, Kentucky, and an active member in pretty much every industry organization including the board of the Mobile Electronics Retailers Association. 

NAV-TV Releases Rear View Camera Interfaces for Current Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet and GMC vehicles that is Capable of Activating a Rear View Camera Input on 768 different vehicles

NAV-TV Corp.,has announced the release of the "GM IO" line of Rear View Camera and Video input safety interfaces for current model Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet and GMC vehicles with either a 4.2" or 8.4" color monitor.

The GM IO line is a tiered product, capable of either activating a Rear View camera input or expanding the capability of the factory color monitor to add an extra video input. For rear view camera activation, the GM IO hardware interfaces are reusable after the initial single, included, activation is used via a pay-per-use downloadable activation file available in single use, 5, 10, 25, 50 or 100 activations.

"Each GM IO hardware interface is capable of activating a rear view camera in 768 different vehicles before it has to be replaced. Since each activation software license is substantially less expensive than the hardware and software combined, and the activation files are immediately available to the NAV-TV dealer without shipping time and costs, we are able to deliver immediate solutions to our dealers at a fraction of the cost of traditional safety interfaces," stated NAV-TV Product Development Engineer, Jack Randall.

Unlike factory GM Dealer programming that requires approximately 3 hours to activate a rear view camera input, the GM IO interfaces require no dealer coding and activates the rear view camera input in under 5 minutes.  At an average shop rate of $120/hour, activation of a rear view camera input via the dealer costs approximately $360.00 plus the installation of the rear view camera.

At a MAP price of $299 for both the hardware and single activation, the GM IO interfaces are less expensive than the dealer coding option and can be done in a fraction of the time. For dealers, that means that 3 cars can be programmed with the GM IO and the rear view camera can be installed in less time than the GM dealer can code one vehicle. 

Additionally, the GM IO interfaces, including a single software use, are priced at a dealer sheet cost of 33% less than any competing product on the market and are 100% Made in the USA. To further increase dealer profits, pay-per-use activation files start at a MAP price of $249.

To ensure GM IO compatibility, the vehicle must be qualified by the presence of RPO code IO3, IO4, IO5 or IO6. RPO codes can be found on a white sticker located in the glove box on trucks and SUV's or near the spare tire on passenger cars.

All GM IO interfaces activate a rear view camera input which appears automatically on the factory color monitor whenever the vehicle is placed into reverse. All vehicles with RPO code IO4, IO5 and IO6 will include user-selectable dynamic parking lines that move in relation to the steering wheel position while the rear view camera is displayed. Although some IO3 vehicles may have this feature, it is less common and the dynamic parking line feature is not supported or guaranteed to function.

The GM IO interfaces are available in the following configurations:

1) GM-IO3-PRG (SKU# NTV-KIT627)

Compatible with vehicles with a 4.2" color monitor, RPO code IO3 and no factory rear view camera.

Features:

• Activates Rear View Camera input
• Rear View Camera is shown automatically while in reverse
• Allows the rear view camera to be turned on in any gear
• Adds an additional video input that can be activated in any gear or speed except reverse.

2) GM-IOH-PRG (SKU# NTV-KIT628)

Compatible with vehicles with a 4.2" or 8.4" color monitor, RPO code IO4 or IO5 or IO6 and no factory rear view camera.

Features:

• Activates Rear View Camera input
• Rear View Camera is shown automatically while in reverse
• Includes User-Selectable Dynamic Moving Parking Lines**

3) GM-UNI-CAM (SKU# NTV-KIT629)

Compatible with vehicles with a 4.2" or 8.4" color monitor, RPO code IO4 or IO5 or IO6 and either a factory rear view camera or GM-IOH-PRG and aftermarket camera.

Features:

• Allows the aftermarket rear view camera to be turned on in any gear. Vehicles with factory rear view cameras must power the factory camera with a 12 volt accessory for this feature to be functional.
• Adds an additional video input that can be activated in any gear or speed except reverse.

4) GM-IOH-PKG (SKU# NTV-KIT630)

Compatible with vehicles with a 4.2" or 8.4" color monitor, RPO code IO4 or IO5 or IO6 and no factory rear view camera.

Features:

• Activates Rear View Camera input
• Rear View Camera is shown automatically while in reverse
• Includes User-Selectable Dynamic Moving Parking Lines**
• Allows the aftermarket rear view camera to be turned on in any gear
• Adds an additional video input that can be activated in any gear or speed except reverse.

All versions of the GM-IO interfaces are available and shipping now. For information on the GM-IO rear view camera and video input solutions, or our existing line of over 700 other integration and safety products, please contact your NAV-TV sales representative at  (866) 477-3336  (USA and Canada toll free) or (561) 955-9770 (International), or email our sales staff at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

* Cameras or optional video sources not included. Cameras are available and must be ordered separately 

** Dynamic parking lines are a factory GM function controlled by the OEM HMI unit. The NAV-TV GM IO interface does not turn on or off the factory Dynamic parking lines. Units that may fail to display the option of Dynamic parking lines must have an OEM HMI/Radio update performed by the GM dealer. 

The mobile electronics event that kicks off the spring car audio selling season is on its way to celebrate its 30th year. On March 19 - 20, 2016, SBN EXPO Group will produce its annual event at the Ocean Center in Daytona Beach Florida.

“We’re thrilled to reach this milestone of the event that has served the industry for so long”, said event founder Paul Papadeas. “Every year, we offer Manufacturers, Distributors and Dealers the opportunity to come together at this industry institution to network, sharing information, training and consumer exposure. Our industry has changed over the years; we’ve modified and adapted the event to the contemporary needs of industry. The one thing that hasn’t changed is the need for continuing Dealer education and consumer exposure to our category. To do all this in a fun-filled environment is unique and I feel that we have that under wraps.”

The two-day event will host the most progressive brands in industry. “I’m thrilled that companies use SBN / ICE as their Southeast Mobile E trade show” says Papadeas, “it shows that they take stock in their Dealer’s success. Within the 30 years of our events, supporting brands have found the value of SBN/ICE coming face to face with Dealers and their customers, the networking opportunity is great.”.

For 2016 SBN EXPO Group, LLC turns back the calendar on exhibiting costs to reflect those set over 2 decades ago. “Our goal, Papadeas said, “is to offer the best exposure for the brands that haven’t yet experienced the potential of our event and at the same time reward the dozens that have over our 30 years.”

An Industry Gala is planned for the event’s Saturday night with details to come. For more information on the 30^th Annual SBN / ICE please contact SBN EXPO Group at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., visit www.springbreaknationals.com or call 386 767 3030.

Alpine Electronics is now shipping the X110-SLV and X110-SRA, the first aftermarket audio/video/navigation/Bluetooth^® systems equipped with a 10-inch capacitive touch screen.

The X110-SLV and X110-SRA are new additions to the Alpine Restyle family of products, which consist of full-featured touch screen systems packaged with vehicle specific dash bezels and control keys. In addition to being the largest full featured systems in the aftermarket, both models also have system expansion capabilities that allow them to serve as the control hub for add-on products.

“Alpine is again pushing ahead with exceptional solutions that meet the needs of truck owners,” said Steve Crawford, vice president and general manager, aftermarket business unit, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc.  “The X110-SLV and X110-SRA, for the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra, respectively, are the only 10-inch aftermarket systems available and are high quality upgrades since equivalent aftermarket solutions do not exist for these trucks due to their non-standard dash openings.”  

Designed with Details for a Factory Look
The X110-SLV and X110-SRA are Alpine engineered for 2014-up Chevrolet Silverado trucks and GMC Sierra trucks. They come with a dash bezel that entirely replaces the OEM radio area and control keys that match the shape and color of the truck. A large rotary encoder knob allows for fast volume control, while big function keys give immediate access to the most-used features like navigation and music.

The X110-SLV has crystal keys back-lit with blue lighting to match the Silverado’s gauge cluster and a blue color scheme for the on-screen graphical user interface (GUI).  The X110-SLV was named a winner of the CES 2016 Innovation Award in the In Vehicle Audio/Video category. For the X110-SRA, red lighting and a red color scheme are used to match the Sierra’s gauge cluster. Both come with vehicle specific wiring harnesses for plug and play installation.

New Hardware Platform and Operating System
Both the 2014-up Chevrolet Silverado and 2014-up GMC Sierra have shallow depth space behind the dash which cannot fit a traditional 2-DIN audio/video/navigation (AVN) chassis.  

The X110-SLV and X110-SRA use a new modular platform where the processing chassis is not attached to the screen.  Instead, it’s a separate piece that replaces the OEM radio module in its existing location behind the dash, but detached from the screen.  

The result is a completely bolt-in solution with no cutting or modification of the vehicle required.  All the needed wire harnesses and connectors are also included.

The X110-SLV and X110-SRA also incorporate a new GUI based on a new graphics rendering engine with swipe action control for 4-way movement -- left, right, up and down.  

The user is always one swipe away from the most commonly accessed functions.  A left swipe accesses the navigation commands, a right swipe accesses audio and video commands, a swipe up accesses adjustments to the audio system or rear seat entertainment system (sold separately) and a swipe down accesses Bluetooth and source selection.  Within the audio and video page, the user can swipe across to access the entertainment sources connected to the system.

System Expansion Capabilities
Both the X110-SLV and X110-SRA can serve as control hubs for other accessories.  When either system is used with the optional KAC-001 External Accessory Control Module (sold separately), the 10-inch screen becomes a hub for touch screen control of add-on truck accessories like a motorized tonneau cover, winch, air suspension, LED lights, headlights, etc.  Eight individual outputs are available to control eight relay-connected accessories.  

A graphical icon and custom text label can be assigned to each accessory for quick identification on the screen.  The individual accessories can be configured as pulsed, latched or momentary outputs.

The X110-SLV and X110-SRA are compatible with Alpine’s rear and front camera systems.  The KCX-C250MC Multi-Camera Controller (sold separately) can be added to optimize the use of multiple camera systems.  

This optional module allows up to three camera systems (rear, front and side) to be controlled from the 10-inch touch screen.  This provides one-touch viewing of any of the camera images on the 10-inch screen.

Retained Factory Features
The X110-SLV and X110-SRA each come with an iDatalink^® Maestro^® module and specific T-harness to retain select factory vehicle controls and features.  The retained features for both models include steering wheel controls, navigation outputs, climate control display, warning chimes, OnStar^® (voice commands, Bluetooth^® hands free calling and WiFi hot spot retention) and visual parking guides when used with an Alpine or factory rear view camera.  Customized vehicle information such as tire pressure, battery voltage, door status, check engine codes, factory settings and user selectable gauges can be viewed on the 10-inch screen.  

Audio and Sound Tuning Features
Audio and sound tuning features available on the X110-SLV and X110-SRA include:
· HD Radio™ Technology: The built-in HD Radio receiver delivers free, crystal clear digital sound from the more than 2,000 AM and FM stations broadcasting with HD Radio Technology and includes Artist Experience, MultiCast and iTunes Tagging support. Alpine’s MediaXpander^® technology provides further enhanced sound quality by adding back missing harmonics in compressed media.
· iPod^® and iPhone^®:  The models are “Made for iPod and iPhone” compatible and have USB access.
· Pandora^® internet radio: Pandora control is available from iPhone^® and Android™ smartphones.  Users can create new Pandora stations, rate songs with thumbs up or down, and bookmark songs for later purchase.  
· SiriusXM: Both models are SiriusXM-Ready™ and connect to the SiriusXM SXV300 Connect Vehicle Tuner Kit (sold separately, subscription required). SiriusXM features include: album art; display of channel logos; pause, rewind and replay up to 60 minutes of content while listening to satellite radio; start songs from the beginning when tuned to any favorite music channel using TuneStart™; scan and select songs on favorite music channels with TuneScan™.
· FLAC/MP3/WMA/AAC/HE-AAC music playback via USB.
· Sound tuning features:  The large touch screen lets users easily adjust fader/balance/subwoofer levels, bass and treble frequencies, time correction, parametric EQ, crossover or choose from 10 EQ presets.  Alpine’s Bass Engine SQ applies simple bass sound characteristics through the choice of five bass profiles.  Alpine’s new Dual HD EQ allows for independent parametric equalizer tuning of front versus rear speakers to optimize total sound quality by leveraging differences in speaker sizes.  The X110-SLV and X110-SRA are also compatible with the Alpine TuneIt^® App, a free app that lets users adjust sound settings or choose pre-made settings from the convenience of their smartphone.

Video and Navigation Features
The Restyle dash systems have a high-resolution screen for crisp, detailed picture quality.  The Dual Zone video control lets drivers use a source in the dash while the back seat passengers enjoy a separate video on the rear seat screen (optional rear seat entertainment system sold separately).

Both models have an HDMI input for connectivity to HDMI-enabled devices and an HDMI output for digital connection to a rear seat entertainment system (KCX-630HD HDMI switcher required).

Alpine’s proprietary navigation interface includes pre-loaded maps of the United States, Canada and more than seven million Points of Interest (POIs).  Major landmarks, buildings and terrain details for major cities are depicted in 3-D.  Driving directions are delivered through text-to-speech announcements and the highway services list displays the services available at each exit (gas, food, ATMs, etc.) to help drivers make quick decisions while en route.  The systems come with free lifetime HERE Traffic RDS service.

Bluetooth^® Wireless Technology Features
Alpine’s advanced Bluetooth^® wireless technology features include secure simple pairing (SSP); multipoint technology that allows for pairing and connecting of two different Bluetooth devices at the same time; phone battery, cellular signal level and received message icons; as well as call waiting.  Sound quality features include Alpine’s MediaXpander^® technology for better playback of compressed media, improved audio streaming, and enhanced phone call sound quality.

“My Favorites” Customizable Settings
The “My Favorites” feature lets users customize a quick-access screen with shortcuts to their most-used features. Shortcuts can be created from audio sources, navigation commands and phone settings.  If the chosen radio station broadcasts metadata, the metadata is automatically fed into the radio station shortcut icon so the user can see the song that is playing before selecting the radio station.  The shortcuts are added by pressing the shortcut soft key that appears within all audio and hands-free sources.

Availability
All models are now available, visit www.alpine-usa.com for a store locator.

X110-SLV 10-Inch Restyle Dash System for Chevy Silverado Trucks (2014 – Up)
and
X110-SRA 10-Inch Restyle Dash System for GMC Sierra Trucks (2014 – Up)
· 10 inch anti-glare capacitive touch screen
· Audio, video, navigation and Bluetooth feature set
· Premium dash bezel with back lit control keys and all needed accessories for  plug and play installation
· Touch screen control of truck accessories via KCA-001 External Accessory Control Module (sold separately)
· 4-way swipe action graphical interface control
· Touch screen control of multiple camera systems via KCX-C250MC Multi-Camera Switcher (sold separately)
· HD Radio™ Tuner built-in with Artist Experience, MultiCast, and iTunes Tagging Support
· Made for iPod^® and iPhone^®
· SiriusXM-Ready™ (SXV300 Connect Vehicle Tuner Kit sold separately, SiriusXM subscription required)
· FLAC/MP3/WMA/AAC/HE-AAC music playback via USB
· Alpine TuneIt^® App integration
· BT Plus Bluetooth^® wireless technology with audio streaming and multipoint technology
· Free lifetime HERE Traffic RDS
· My Favorites feature provides custom shortcuts to favorite audio sources, places and phone numbers
· HDMI input via KCX-630HD HDMI switcher (sold separately)
· HDMI output for digital connection to rear seat entertainment system
· Independent dual zone video control for separate front and rear video sources
· Retains select factory features with the included iDatalink^® Maestro^® module:
· OnStar® (voice commands, Bluetooth^® hands free calling, WiFi hot spot retention)
· Steering wheel controls
· Navigation outputs
· Climate control display
· Warning chimes
· Visual parking guides with existing or aftermarket rearview camera display
· On-screen vehicle information viewable with the iDatalink^® Maestro^® module:
· Tire pressure display
· Battery voltage display
· Door status
· Check engine codes
· Factory settings
· User selectable gauges
· SRI:  Each model is $4,000

KAC-001 External Accessory Control Module
· Allows the X110-SLV and X110-SRA to be used as a hub for touch screen control of add-on third-party electronically controlled accessories
· Eight individual outputs are available to control eight relay-connected accessories
· Customizable on screen icons and labels
· Selectable on/off, continuous or pulsed outputs for maximum accessory control and compatibility
· SRI: $200

KCX-C250MC Multi-Camera Controller
· Allows up to three camera systems to be controlled from the X110-SLV or X110-SRA’s touch screen  
· SRI: $200

KCX-630HD HDMI Switcher
· Adds an HDMI input for connection to HDMI-enabled devices
· SRI:  $200

RE Audio has released the new REX-V2 Series. The series was created by Dirk Ecker, Chief of Engineering, and US AMPS Co-Founder with the intent of adding excitement and depth to music by using very little current, and to keep the cost down while producing drastic results.

The REX Sub’s come with single 4 Ohm voice coils in 8-, 10-, and 12-inch sizes. Each created with individually designed parts to get the most out of each design.

The company has also released its new CVX 12-inch subwoofer, which features a 2-inch diameter voice coil. A 60-ounce magnet powers the motor structure designed by Dirk Ecker. A rugged stamped steel basket, with a standard cut out supports the cone.

Other features include:

• Composite Pulp Cone.
• Rubatek Foam Surround.
• Reinforced Steele Basket.
• Tork-Tite Terminal.
• 2” Diameter, 4-Layer Copper Voice Coil.
• FEA-Optimized Motor Structure.
• Wide 60 oz. Magnet.
• Progressive Spiders.
• Nominal Impedance:  4 Ohm.
• Power Handling: 300 Watts. (R.M.S.)

CNBC -- Samsung Electronics is setting up a new business unit to focus on automotive-related technology such as components for driverless cars, the South Korean giant said on Wednesday.

Details about the team were scarce but Samsung said it is to focus on infotainment systems and autonomous driving technology. Samsung did not say how big the team would be.

The news comes as Samsung looks to find new growth drivers amid slowing smartphone sales and as an increasing number of technology companies look to jump into the automotive space.

Read the rest of the story here: http://www.cnbc.com/2015/12/09/samsung-sets-up-team-to-focus-on-driverless-cars.html

Entrepreneur -- You don’t become an entrepreneur because it’s easy or convenient. You decide to start your own business because you want your life to be meaningful, because you want to feel like your life has a purpose, because you are trying to build something bigger than yourself.

What does that feel like? How does it feel to chase -- and achieve -- your dream? How do you know that you are heading in the right direction?

Finding your purpose doesn’t always come with a parade and a champagne celebration. Sometimes it appears as a quiet, simple moment. That’s how it was for Adrian Gradinaru, co-founder of New York City-based boat rental marketplace Sailo. The website allows people to search, compare and book boats online.

Earlier this summer, Gradinaru was heading home one night this summer, walking through New York City after a long day at work, when he realized he truly was doing work that provided him a sense of purpose. “I felt this interior calm that was sort of amazing,” says Gradinaru. “It’s not about money, it’s not about profit, I feel like we are providing a service that people are actually using and they are enjoying it.”

For one of the other co-founders, that moment of clarity came in the form of a phone call.

“One of our customers called us, this was somebody we didn’t know, and they just told us that they had had the best day [of] their life. And we had created a company that provided the best day of people’s lives and that’s ultimately why we started it,” says Delphine Braas, another co-founder of Sailo.

GovTech -- As the private sector races to develop self-driving cars and regulators push to connect vehicles to make them safer and more efficient, America’s cities are increasingly becoming literal testing facilities for innovation.

The need for an urban environment to pilot technologies vying to revolutionize transportation has been well documented: As Google has put self-driving cars on public streets in Mountain View, Calif., and Austin, Texas, researchers at the University of Michigan have set up a “fake city” with traffic signals and streets to test out vehicle connection concepts. But during the past two days, leaders trying to pave the way for futuristic vehicle tech have asserted that cities should be doing more than just serving as the physical settings in which new ideas become realities — they should be doing all they can to accelerate those ideas into more concrete formations.

The first step was the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) announcing Monday the availability of $50 million in funding for cities to implement high-tech transportation improvement projects revolving around concepts like vehicle-to-infrastructure connections. Next was a daylong conference held Tuesday, Dec. 8, at the Telecommunications Industry Association’s headquarters in Arlington, Va., where government and private-sector leaders discussed the role cities can and should play in helping that kind of technology develop.

Brian Cronin, a team leader in the Intelligent Transportation Systems Joint Program Office, said during the conference that technology has progressed to the point where the adoption of futuristic-sounding technologies like vehicles that flow seamlessly through intersections isn’t too crazy to consider. From a municipal perspective, he said, there isn’t anything stopping public servants from beginning to prepare for the ideas.

Read the rest of the story here: http://www.govtech.com/fs/Cities-Should-Help-Bring-About-the-Smart-Car-Transportation-Tech-Leaders-Say.html

Epsilon Electronics will be revealing new products at the upcoming CES 2016 show at the Las Vegas Convention Center January 6-9^th, 2016. They’ve again invested countless efforts to develop and engineer numerous exciting products for 2016; paying attention to market trends, customer’s suggestions, and direct feedback from distributors.

In turn, they promise this CES 2016 will be an exciting unveiling of new products where they will be showcasing them in category stations. Epsilon will be present in Booth #1525 in North Hall. Epsilon Electronics Inc. has more than thirty-two years worth of experience and success in audio and video automotive industry.

President and CEO Jack Rochel learned a long time ago that innovation is key in order to stay competitive. For this reason, Epsilon Electronics Inc. has continuously invested in research and development and stayed on top of the latest innovations. By employing an in-house research and development team, Epsilon has kept up with the latest trends in the automotive audio/video industry.