Press Releases

TORRANCE, Calif., Jan. 7, 2008 – The process of backing-up a vehicle, particularly for large SUVs or in an area crowded with pedestrians, can be a stressful experience for even the most capable drivers. Alpine Electronics of America, Inc., the industry-leading manufacturer of automotive mobile media solutions, today announced a new tool to help drivers safely and confidently reverse their vehicles with ease. The HCE-C105 rear-view camera gives drivers a detailed view of what’s behind the car in any lighting condition, so that they can more safely back up and be on their way.

“With driver safety becoming a larger concern in the industry and among consumers, providing driver assist solutions is a significant part of Alpine’s strategy,” said Stephen Witt, vice president, marketing and product planning, Alpine Electronics. “The innovative HCE-C105 is Alpine’s first driver assist device in North America. This is an important step as we expand further into this product category.”

The HCE-C105 is compatible with Alpine’s IVA-W205, IVA-D106 and IVA-W505 Mobile Multimedia Stations™ or any monitor that has a video-in. The small camera, which measures approximately 1 inch in size, can be mounted near the rear license plate. The camera and compact hideaway box are connected to the in-dash display via extra-long cables for easy installation. The camera is automatically triggered when the vehicle is placed in reverse.

The HCE-C105 features exceptional video quality that shows a detailed picture on the Mobile Multimedia Station’s large full-color screen. An automatic brightness sensor and white balance feature help the camera deliver a quality image in both bright lighting or night conditions. With a 138-degree wide viewing angle and a 105-degree vertical view, the HCE-C105’s camera captures a complete picture of the area behind the vehicle. These large viewing angles allow for greater installation flexibility so the user is not required to mount the camera in one specific location.

Pricing and Availability
The HCE-C105 will be available April 2008 at authorized Alpine retailers for a $220 SRI.

About Alpine Electronics Alpine Electronics is a global supplier of automotive mobile media solutions including audio, video, satellite-linked navigation and portable device connectivity systems for original equipment and aftermarket applications. Alpine is at the forefront of vehicle entertainment and information system innovation, with many first-to-market technologies such as portable navigation that docks into an in-dash unit, iPod® integration, full range digital amplification and automated acoustical correction sound systems. With manufacturing and R&D facilities in Japan, China, Europe and North America, and more than 1,600 global patents, Alpine’s premium sound systems and user-friendly navigation products combine the latest in advanced technology with an enhanced user experience. Alpine is a consolidated subsidiary of Alps Electric Co., Ltd., one of the world’s premier manufacturers of electronic components for computer, communications and car electronics equipment. Visit www.alpine-usa.com to learn more about Alpine products or to find an authorized retailer.