JC Whitney President Outlines Popular Aftermarket Accessories for 2004

CHICAGO, March 9 -- "There's a love affair taking place between car, truck, SUV owners and their vehicles," according to Tim Ford, president, JC Whitney & Co. As he sees it, more and more people are becoming automotive enthusiasts, personalizing their rides with the latest in accessories to make their vehicles stylish and unique.

And while there are literally thousands of automotive customization products on the market, only a select few achieve top-selling status each year.

"Many vehicle owners have become 'trendsetters,' striving to be the first to purchase the latest 'hot' products," said Ford. "This behavior helps a product develop into a 'must-have' accessory."

Aftermarket accessories are the fastest growing segment of the automotive marketplace, as Ford is well aware. "We follow trends and provide 'everything automotive" with a catalog of more than 150,000 items for any vehicle -- automobiles, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, RVs and ATVs," said Ford.

So what are the hottest-selling products for 2004? Well, according to Ford, the most sought-after items can change as quickly as trends do, but here's a look at a few that he says are currently showing promise of "must have" demand.

Round Tube Hitches

SUV owners who need to add a towing hitch should check out the aerodynamic round tube Class III and IV receiver hitches from Hidden Hitch, designed to complement any SUV's styling cues.

Remote Starters

With an easy-to-install remote starter kit, you can start your vehicle from the comfort of your office or home and warm up your vehicle's engine before you ever unlock the door. Remote starters eliminate the shock of a cold car on a freezing day or a blazing hot cabin on those scorching days of summer. Remote starter kits are available in several configurations with retail prices starting at $59.00.

Rear View Mirror With Built-In Monitor

Designed to help eliminate accidents when backing-up, this built-in TV system provides a second field of vision (from the rear of the vehicle) via a TV monitor mounted in the vehicle's mirror or visor. The on-board camera automatically activates when the vehicle shifts into reverse, and provides a lowered rear view, even below the bumper, showing a clear color image of what's behind the vehicle, including other vehicles, children, pets, bicycles, and other hazards. The standard model from Automan retails just under $500.

Designer Graphics

Give a custom paint scheme to virtually any vehicle in minutes with hand air brushed vinyl graphics. Manufactured by Roge for permanent application, they can also be removed. These graphics provide a distinctive look that will make any vehicle stand out from others.

LED Braking/Turn Light Bar

New LED light bars called "Line of Fire" from Altec Products provide extra lighting for increased safety and custom looks. The light bar mounts quickly in the recessed area below a truck's tailgate, illuminating when braking and side flashing with the corresponding turn signals.