NEW YORK —
Steelmate USA added 12
backup-camera models to its iPark lineup,
and Magellan announced that its $299-suggested
RoadMate 9055 PND with 7-inch
screen will accept an optional backup camera
in the future.
Steelmate’s selection includes 10 vehiclespecific
models and two universal models.
The products are classified into two groups:
one using CMOS camera technology and
the other using CCD technology. Models in
the former category retail for a suggested
$160, while the latter are $180.
All of the new cameras feature 170-degree-
angle view and 1/3-inch cameras, and
they mount where the normal license plate
light would be, said John Lombard, national
sales manager. “There is no drilling or cutting
on the vehicle.”
The new vehicle-specific CMOS cameras
are designed for the Chrysler/Dodge/VW
Minivan 2009 model year and newer; Hyundai
Santa Fe 2010 and newer; Ford Transit
Van 2009 and newer; and Subaru Forester
2009 and newer. One CMOS SKU is designed
for the 2009 and later Buick Enclave,
GMC Acadia, and Saturn Outlook.
The vehicle-specific CCD models include
SKUs for the 2009 Cadillac CTS Sedan/
Coupe/Wagon, Lexus ES350 Sedan 2009
and newer, Ford Edge 2009 and newer,
Buick La Crosse 2010 and newer, Mercedes
GLK 2009 and newer; and Cadillac
STS Sedan 2009 and newer.
The two universal cameras use CMOS
technology and a wedge design for a low-profile
installation. One adds a front-viewing option.
“Most times this can’t be done because
the image is reversed,” Lombard explained.
All of the cameras are currently available.
A separate 3-inch monitor is available for users
who don’t want an in-dash display.
At Magellan, the newly available RoadMate
9055 PND is the first of a select group of
Magellan GPS units that will support a new,
proprietary Magellan backup camera scheduled
for spring availability. The PND’s large-7-
inch display makes it suitable for RVs, SUVs,
minivans and other large-cab vehicles.
