CONTENTS Features:
Volume 29 // Issue 2 Cover Story:
Directed – A Newer, Leaner Company Reflects a Changed Industry – page 12 The Industry’s #1 Resource
facebook.com/MobileElectronics 32 // 9 Trends From ® February/March 2012 |
me-mag.com
CES 2012 The North Hall was alive with though
innovation, not neces-
The Aftermarket Showed the Latest in Connectivity and Efficiency; The OEMs Showed the Driving Experience of the Future
44
44 // Automakers Enter the App World Audi, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Ford and others showed off new cars, but mostly they showed future tech.
12 // Q&A Directed: Smartphones Open the Way to More Opportunity VP of Marketing Jim Jardin says Viper’s SmartStart app reflects both the changing state of our industry and the company’s goal to connect with consumers.
18 // Stats Choosing a Vendor, Valuing a Rep Dealers say longevity is a big deal when considering a new vendor, while reps are judged based on how well they know where the sales are.
26 // Consumer Preference Remote Starters: How Far is Far Enough? Consumers weigh in on how much distance they expect from their remote starters, plus remotes still trump smartphones for interfacing.
48// International Autoshow The Factory Connection Shiny paint and stylish interiors can’t hide the fact that the new crop of cars from the Detroit Auto Show want to be everything to everyone.
More Articles
6 Shots 10 Editor’s Forum 14 Feedback 16 Stats
18 Retailer Recommendations 19 Sales Snapshot 20 External Effects 22 Recognition
52 Web Analysis 66 Peer to Peer
MOBILE ELECTRONICS (USPS 957-170) (ISSN#1523-763X) is published bi-monthly, with an additional issue in July, by Mobile Electronics Retailers Association, Inc. 85 Flagship Drive, Suite F, North Andover, MA 01845. Periodicals postage paid at Lawrence, MA 01842-8887 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Mobile Electronics PO Box 3186 Redondo Beach, CA 90277. Please allow 6-8 weeks for address changes to take effect. Subscription Prices - United States $35 per year, Canada $42 per year, Foreign $75 per year, Single copy price - $5; Buyer’s Guide $25. Please allow 6-8 weeks to receive your first issue.
4 Mobile Electronics February | March 2012
sarily in brand new products, but trends centered on reaching new markets, revamping exist- ing products and paying close attention to the cost-conscious consumer.
Cars & Pics – 6
Top 10 Trends – 32 Carmakers – 44
February // March 2012
62 // Tech Skills Warm Windows, New Dash, Hot Car No ice on this windshield—a new winter accessory installs easily in this Ford F-150. Plus, dash dreams are all good for an older Charger, and a fast car gets a fast start.
Newsletters 54 // MERA
There to Lend a Hand MERA is committed to the success of the specialty
retailer and will be persistent in bringing valuable resources to strengthen the industry for the greater good. Referrals are the Cream of the Crop Referrals are usually lie-down sales who buy quickly, don’t comparison shop, seldom complain, spend more money and are more likely to refer others.
58 //MECP
MECP Revamps Advanced Level Study Guide and Exam As the duties of an installation technician expand and change, so must the credentials they achieve. Certified and Recertified Installers List
Three installers join the Master Installer ranks while dozens more receive their basic and advanced installer certifications.
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