Car Briefs

By Staff On Jul 17 2006 - 6:00am

ABI: Clarion Ranks As A Top Navigation Vendor

OYSTER BAY, N.Y. — ABI Research said Clarion ranked as the No. 1 overall Japanese after-market navigation vendor, according to its vendor evaluation matrix for innovation and market penetration.

Pioneer ranked second followed by Kenwood Panasonic, Alpine and Sony.

ABI's vendor matrix measures factors such as relative cost, iPod support, distribution channels, use of flash memory and form-factor choices. It also examines market share, global distribution, patents, R&D spending and time to market.

Ranking as No. 7 through 10 in Japanese after-market navigation, were Sanyo, Fujitsu Ten, Mitsubishi and Denso, respectively, said ABI.

Rockford Sells Out $20,000 Amplifiers

TEMPE, Ariz.— Rockford Fosgate said it sold out its initial build of 20 6,000-watt amplifiers, each at a suggested retail price of $20,000. The company reported that, to its surprise, some customers bought more than one unit of the ultra-high-end amplifier, called the 15kW, which was introduced in January.

Rockford said it will offer a second build on the products but has not announced the schedule.

Boston Intros New Subs

PEABODY, Mass. — Boston Acoustics is shipping new entry-level versions of its G series subwoofers, called the G1 series. Designed for shallow mounting depths, the speakers include the G110 and G112, in 10-inch and 12-inch sizes, respectively, both in single and dual 4-ohm versions, at suggested respective retails of $109.95 and $119.95.

Kenwood Launches First Internet Ad Promotion

LONG BEACH, Calif.— Kenwood is offering its first Internet advertising promotion. Through July 30, the company is offering $30 instant rebate coupons that are available on MySpace.com and UGO.com. Users click on a banner ad on those sites and receive the coupon, which is treated as an instant rebate at Kenwood dealers.

Roadmax Enters GPS

TORRANCE, Calif. — Roadmax, a new company started by car stereo veteran Phil Maeda, will launch the VMax 361 portable GPS with preloaded maps, at $349 suggested retail, in August/September. The company also plans to enter the rear-seat entertainment market, said Maeda.