Did you know vehicles represent the third-fastest growing connected device behind smart phones and tablets?
Car makers are spending more research and development to enhance connectivity in the car. Innovations such as safety, more connectivity, and telematics play a key role for the future of technology in the car. New technology such as alert-only systems to some form of autonomous emergency braking systems are in the horizon. Consumers are demanding more capabilities such as internet radio and emergency concierge services. You can clearly see this on newer vehicles.
According to Worldwide Automotive Infotainment System Revenue Forecast, automotive infotainment revenue amounted to $32.5 billion in 2011, $33.5 billion in 2012, and by 2016, it s expected to reach $41.2 billion.
Infotainment technology brings the high tech dashboard displays, internet radio, and other connectivity solutions to the automotive industry. This field includes areas like navigation systems, premium audio, telematics, fuel efficiency, safety and connectivity solutions. Vehicles are now equipped with intelligent mirrors, rear view cameras, peripheral sensors, lane changing warning systems, driver alertness detectors, self parking functions just to name some of the most modern up to date features. This is revolutionizing cars and the industry as a whole.
CEA (Consumer Electronics Association) research has found that approximately 15% of US households now own a vehicle with connected communication/entertainment system such as OnStar or Ford SYNC that offers infotainment, communication, safety and driver assistance solutions and services.
Mobile Technical Training knows 12 volt installers must be very well educated in these areas. All students will learn how this type of technology functions so they could troubleshoot any issues that arise with the installation. We look forward to future technology in the automotive industry. You can be sure we are implementing this information into the course.
Here are some industry facts for those who are thinking of starting a career in car audio…
8 Reasons for Optimism on Car Audio in 2012
April 9, 2012 by Amy Gilroy (CE Outlook)
As the economy improves, we see more reasons to be optimistic about car audio in 2012. Here are 8 reasons for optimism:
car audio
Rockford Corp.—It stated recently it expects revenues to increase by 24 to 30 percent in the first quarter over the same period last year after, and income should increase even more. And this follows a full year of growth in 2011.
Hushmat—“We’re up more this year than the past 3 years combined… The spike in gas has not slowed demand,” said founder Tim McCarthy. Hushmat was up 40 percent in first quarter sales over last year.
Al & Ed’s Autosound—It just launched its first campaign in many years to expand its franchise store count beyond the current 18-locations.
Spring Break Nationals—The event had the highest attendance at the gate in the past 4 years. General attendance by show-goers was up 30 percent over last year.
Car Toys –Business has “generally been very good for car audio” this year. “CD is holding its own, premium head units are very strong while speakers, amps and subs are extremely strong, said Jim Warren SVP Merchandising of the 50+ store chain.
Alpine—“I can tell you we’re pretty optimistic about 2012 based on the way the market is stabilizing…We’re pretty optimistic about where we’ll be a year from now,” said Steve Crawford, VP and GM.
Boss Audio—Said it had the best February in the 25 year history of the company.
Clarion—It’s up in orders over 2011 so far this year