Michigan firms develop new Bluetooth solution for automotive aftermarket
PONTIAC, Mich., Nov. 6 /PRNewswire/ -- Telematics supplier GuidePoint
Systems today announced it will partner with Grand Rapids, Mich.-based
Brandmotion, LLC to develop new consumer technology for the automotive
aftermarket.
Pontiac, Mich.-based GuidePoint said the two companies will debut their
first joint initiative, a prototype of a new Bluetooth solution for vehicles,
at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas this week. The new kit will offer a variety of
advantages over existing market solutions, including superior OEM integration,
voice recognition and ease of installation. Additionally, the
GuidePoint(TM)-branded hands-free phone kit will be integrated with the
company's GPS-based vehicle tracking technology and 24/7/365 safety and
convenience services.
"We're very pleased to be working with the Brandmotion team to develop a
cost-effective Bluetooth kit that finally allows for a quality conversation in
the car," said Rand Mueller, president and CEO of GPSi. "The combination of
GuidePoint services and Brandmotion's technology will allow us to offer a
superior dealer-installed product that will command a premium price from
consumers."
Mueller said the new Bluetooth kit will also be easier to install than
existing solutions on the marketplace. Most kits have a separate user
interface and microphone, requiring the mic wire to be run up the A-pillar and
tucked into the headliner. The new GuidePoint-Brandmotion kit features the
microphone and user interface in one box. Additionally, the new kit will
feature an Aux-in audio strategy, eliminating the need for installers to pull
radios and install harnesses behind it. The new kit will also offer a built-in
plug-and-play option.
GuidePoint plans to launch the new Bluetooth product to the new-car dealer
channel in spring 2009. For a preview, visit Booth 10464 at the SEMA Show,
November 4-7.
About Brandmotion: Brandmotion ( www.brandmotion.com ) is a leading
producer of interior automotive aftermarket products. Led by veteran auto
industry engineers, Brandmotion is dedicated to bringing innovative,
affordable and fully integrated consumer products to market quickly and
efficiently with OEM-level functionality.
About GuidePoint Systems: Sold through more than 1,500 new and pre-owned
dealerships nationwide, GuidePoint integrates GPS, advanced wireless
technology, the Web and 24/7/365 response centers to deliver a variety of
services to vehicle owners and fleet managers. Rated the #1 stolen vehicle
tracking solution in 2007 by international research firm Frost & Sullivan,
GuidePoint also offers a variety of driver safety, convenience, fleet
management and vehicle tracking services. Visit www.guidepointsystems.com or
call 1-877-GPS-FIND for more information.
