Mazda North America Names Code Systems Key Supplier of Remote Engine Start Systems
LAS VEGAS and HAUPPAUGE, N.Y., Jan. 7, 2004 -- "For years the brand name Code Alarm has been synonymous with a commitment to high- technology products, designed to the most stringent specifications to appeal to the automotive OEM and their customers...and that proud history continues with this Mazda North America Operations announcement," said Patrick M. Lavelle, President of Code Systems and President-CEO of Audiovox Electronics Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Audiovox Corp. .
Lavelle announced that Code Systems was selected by Mazda North American Operations to develop, manufacture and supply remote engine start systems targeted for the company's Mazda 6, Mazda 3, Tribute and MPV 2004 and 2005 vehicle platforms. Mazda dealers will be able to order this feature as optional equipment or install the product themselves as a dealer accessory.
Lavelle attributes Code Systems' success to the company's ability to focus exclusively on vehicle security, keyless entry and remote start products, which allows them to stay ahead of the technology curve and introduce innovative products before its competitors. "The successes we have in bringing these technologies to the OEMs is all about bringing new features and benefits to the consumer, while increasing sales for the dealer. Our commitment is to bring the OEM the next level of consumer feature-benefits in the remote start category before anyone else can," he stated.
Code Alarm's (now Code Systems) track record in OEM product development is impressive, from the 1986 development of a keyless entry system for GM to the late 90's when they designed an Interior Theft Sensor(R) for vehicle production at GM. Additionally, Code has supplied products to port of entry facilities for Mazda NA Operations, KIA Motors America, Mitsubishi Motor Sales America and Subaru of America.
In between, KIA, Ford, Chrysler, Volkswagen NA, Mitsubishi NA and Subaru NA have all benefited from Code products and programs. Remote start is one such program. "Originally, remote start was perceived by the car manufacturers as problematic because of the safety implications and the intense vehicle level validation requirements to integrate a system into the vehicle. In 2000, the Code Brands, after working with Ford for over two years, helped them launch the first OEM remote start program," Lavelle said.
Fast forward to 2004, and you see how Code Systems, Inc., a subsidiary of Audiovox Electronics Corporation, can offer automotive OE companies an enhanced level of field sales and technical support for their accessory sales of vehicle security, keyless entry and remote start products. Code Systems offers OE manufacturers turnkey service that is efficient and cost effective. Along with field sales and technical services there are program management support systems that cover product development by customer specification, and application engineering supplied by vehicle integration technical experts. Code's engineering services include product validation to customer requirements, hardware design, embedded software design, an in-house testing laboratory and new technology R&D. Lavelle believes that these types of technology-based marketing, and the consumer feature-benefits it offers, will continue to give Code Systems the edge in providing leading technologies to the OEMs accessory, port and vehicle production facilities.
Today, as part of Audiovox Electronics Corporation, Code Systems is backed by the resources and world wide sourcing of a company that is committed to the continuation of their success.
"The OE market has become more competitive than ever, and Code Systems' operating and marketing objectives remain singularly focused on growing their success as a significant player in the OE aftermarket, port of entry and factory floor categories in security, car start, keyless entry and content protection," Lavelle concluded.
Code Systems supplies remote vehicle control systems and components to the Accessory, Mass Customization and Vehicle Production divisions for the world's top automakers, including General Motors, Ford, DaimlerChrysler, Kia and Mazda. Code Systems products are designed specifically to work with the sophisticated electrical systems found in today's cars, trucks, minivans and sport utility vehicles. Code Systems produces its products to automotive specifications and is certified under the QS-9000 quality system designated by the major automotive manufacturers.
Audiovox Electronics Corporation (AEC) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Audiovox Corporation . AEC is a recognized leader in the marketing of automotive entertainment, vehicle security and consumer electronics products. The company is number one in mobile video and places in the top ten of almost every category that it sells. Among the products marketed by AEC are mobile video systems, portable DVD players, flat-panel TV's, auto sound systems including satellite radio, vehicle security, and consumer electronics products such as extended range two-way radios, multi media products like MP 3 players, and home and portable stereos. The company markets its products through an extensive distribution network that includes power retailers, 12 volt specialists, mass merchandisers and an OE sales group. The company markets products under the Audiovox, Jensen, Acoustic Research, Advent, Code Alarm and Prestige brands. For additional information, visit our web site at www.audiovox.com.
Except for historical information contained herein, statements made in this release that would constitute forward-looking statements may involve certain risks and uncertainties. All forward-looking statements made in this release are based on currently available information and the company assumes no responsibility to update any such forward-looking statement. The following factors, among others, may cause actual results to differ materially from the results suggested in the forward-looking statements. The factors include, but are not limited to: risks that may result from our ability to keep pace with technological advances; significant competition in the wireless, mobile and consumer electronics businesses; quality and consumer acceptance of newly introduced products; our relationships with key suppliers and customers; market volatility; non-availability of product; excess inventory; price and product competition; new product introductions; the possibility that the review of our prior filings by the SEC may result in changes to our financial statements; and the possibility that stockholders or regulatory authorities may initiate proceedings against Audiovox and/or our officers and directors as a result of any restatements. Risk factors associated with our business, including some of the factors set forth herein, are detailed in the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal fourth quarter and year ended November 30, 2002 and its Form 10-Q for the three months ended August 31, 2003.
LAS VEGAS CONVENTION CENTER - 2004 WCES Audiovox-Code Alarm Booth 8304 Jensen-Rampage Booth 1425 Public Relations Contact: Investor and Financial Media Contact: Melvin Clapman Glenn Wiener Melvin Clapman Public Relations GW Communications (718) 474-2528 (212) 786-6011 or gwiener@GWCco.com or mclapman@mindspring.com