LaneFX is not like blind spot mirrors. It's only a mobile electronics system that moves your power mirrors in lane changes and merges.

HOME: Are you looking for a great technology or auto safety story idea? Look no further than the award-winning LaneFX and ParkFX auto safety systems. LaneFX is an industry-leading auto safety and lane change blind spot mirror technology. But at the same time, it makes for a great new gadget story because it addresses a problem that every driver out there can identify with. So go ahead! Download our LaneFX Media Kit and get your thought-starters instantly. Plus, be sure to check out the LaneFX auto safety DVD (also available in streaming video) and experience LaneFX in its natural habitat: America's highways. LaneFX: It's much more than a blind spot mirror, much more than a car gadget!

BUY LANEFX AND SAVE
CONTENTS: LaneFX Wholesale Pricing Information for Mobile Electronic Retailers & Distributors
NHTSA estimates that 1 out of 25 accidents on US highways is due to improper lane change or lane merge. Get in on the latest and coolest mobile electronics technology. Car gadgets are interesting, but who are you going to trust to show you the vehicles in your blind spot area? Lane FX is safe, reliable, affordable and universal: It works in any vehicle (sedan, truck or SUV) equipped with power mirrors for lane change and also for parking assist. LaneFX is also available with ParkFX Park Assist and Curb Exposure System. ParkFX tilts your side mirror(s) downward when you put the vehicle in reverse to show you the curb (during parallel parking) or the parking boundaries around you. Get ParkFX and avoid giving your rims costly "curb rash"!

Double Lane Change Increases SUV Rollover Risk

Drivaware reports on a new double lane-change test that is designed to stimulate an emergency maneuver to determine SUV handling. The test is important because the more controllable and secure a vehicle is when pushed to its handling limits the better chance the SUV occupants will avoid an accident. In situations where an obstacle is in the way, due to the compromising nature of SUVs in general, steering around it can cause the vehicle to go out of control and result in an SUV rollover. Double lane-change SUV rollovers are more common than passenger cars because of the higher center of gravity that makes SUVs more prone to rollover, especially if swerving abruptly.

The aspect of SUV safety has most often focused on risk of rollover. The National Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has said the rate of SUV rollover is two to three times greater than a passenger car. Height of a SUV makes the vehicle more top heavy than one that sits lower, which is why consumers interested in purchasing a SUV are advised to choose one lower to the ground if not needing a vehicle with high ground clearance.

Accident avoidance is an important aspect of vehicle safety and the ability to sharply swerve to avoid hitting an object or a person. In a SUV, the sudden cornering forces or double lane-change can cause the SUV to tip onto two wheels and cause it to rollover. Especially after the Ford/Firestone SUV rollovers in 2000 left hundreds dead and even more injured, focus on SUV safety, like double lane-change SUV rollover risk, greater.

When shopping for an SUV, check for the availability of a blind spot exposure system, such as LaneFX. In addition to rollover resistance technology and such a wide range of vehicle options, becoming informed consumers can reduce safety risks.

Compare Backup Sensors & Cameras to ParkFX for the Most Reliable Backup Warning Technology

Not all reversing aids are equal. The sensing technology and the indicating method are critical to your driving safety.

How A Park Assist System Alerts You

One option is video, which at first seems like a great choice. But one major flaw with having a video camera affixed to the back of your car with a monitor on your dashboard is that it also forces you to look forward while backing up. That can disturb your perception, your reaction time, and feel very unnatural. They are also extremely expensive, and you'll pay thousands of dollars to have a video system attached to your car, whether from the dealer or an aftermarket supplier.

Compare that to other bargain basement devices which actually have LED displays (little red lights) on your dashboard. These are cumbersome -- almost useless -- for much the same reason as video: when you drive in reverse, you naturally look behind you, and you'll never see the little red lights. They are also hard to read in bright sunlight.

Some other bargain technologies use a tone which beeps more rapidly as you get closer to an obstacle. You can at least hear the relative distance just by listening to the beeps, but you have to practice a bit to really understand how far you are from danger.

That's why an audible voice sensor is best. It tells you in a spoken voice exactly how far away you are. Not only do you not have to awkwardly look forward at your dashboard, you'll know without guessing how much further you can safely back up.

How A Reversing Aid Detects Objects

If you've never seen or used a reversing aid, you might be surprised at how technically advanced they actually can be.

Reversing aids use a variety of technologies to sense an object behind the car. Some units use Doppler radar, and others use infrared sensors, but by far the most accurate method of detection is the one the U.S. Navy uses on its submarines: sonar.

Sonar can operate in any weather, including direct sunlight or rain. And it doesn't require that the car be moving in order to sense an obstruction.

Don't Be Blind Sided by Your Blind Spot!

Unlike other "radar" detectors, LaneFX has no learning curve. LaneFX is a WYSIWYG (What you see is what you get) system that uses what you already use - your vehicle's side mirrors - to show you what's in your blind spot zone. With its extensive customization options, LaneFX adapts to your driving style, not the other way around.

Don't forget: your mobile electronics retailer is best for installing your LaneFX system, but not factory systems like Volvo BLIS or ValeoRaytheon. Don't settle for the nerdy car gadgets, get LaneFX and get the latest driver safety technologies. Lane change or merge with the latest blind spot mirrors and auto safety technologies.

RELATED TOPICS:

  1. radar detectors
  2. mobile electronics
  3. latest gadgets for drivers
  4. Auxiliary blind spot convex mirrors
  5. Audi Q7
  6. Volvo BLIS for S80 and XC90 SUV

Christmas Gift Ideas For Car Lovers

‘Tis the season, as they say, when we start dreaming up wish lists and dropping hints to our loved ones. For the automotive enthusiast or anyone on the go, here are some holiday gift ideas to make it a very merry Christmas.

Satellite Radio ($50 and up for radio, subscription $10-15/month)
Becoming more popular all the time, satellite radio is a wonderful gift idea for anyone spending large chunks of time on the road. Portable models can fit onto any vehicle and offer excellent sound quality through your car’s speakers. With hundreds of channels of listening options, satellite radio is the gift that keeps on giving (provided you keep up with the subscription fee, of course).

MP3 Player Attachment ($30-99)
For another audio option, consider an MP3 dock. Most plug into your car’s cigarette lighter and transmit an FM signal through the vehicle’s stereo with little to no sacrifice in sound quality. Some will even recharge your MP3 player during playback. Some models limit the choice of available FM signals, while upscale versions have more options and clearer transmission.

Self-Heating/Cooling Travel Mugs ($15-35)
Does your coffee lose its steam on those long commutes? Is the ice in your soda melting too quickly during the summer? Try a mug that plugs into your car’s cigarette lighter to heat or cool your beverage as necessary. Most have multiple temperature settings and will emit a small beep when the desired level has been reached.

Roadside Emergency Kit ($35-85)
On the more practical side, another gift idea (and something that should be in the trunk of every vehicle) is an emergency kit. These supply collections typically include necessities such as jumper cables, a flashlight, and work gloves, but many kits with even more to offer. Some will have a heavy-duty tow rope, first aid equipment, flares, and a tire pump. Most kits are packaged in a convenient carry-all and don’t take up too much space. If you have a younger driver or live in an unforgiving climate a roadside kit is a gift that can be a lifesaver.

Portable JumpStarter ($50-125)
No one likes getting stranded with a dead car battery, which have a habit of letting you down at the worst possible moment. A portable JumpStarter can prevent that hassle. Typically less than 20 pounds and about the size of a toaster, JumpStarters vary in available battery life and power, and most need an overnight recharge every couple of months. Some include gauges that display how much charge they have left to offer, or indicate just when recharging is necessary.

Digital Key Chain Tire Gauge ($5-25)
For a handy stocking stuffer, consider a tire gauge that doubles as a key chain. Tires not inflated properly can hinder a vehicle’s handling capability, increase tire wear, and potentially be a safety hazard. They will also detract from your vehicle’s gas mileage. These keychains connect to your tire’s air nozzle and show their psi with a digital display. Check your owner’s manual for your vehicle’s recommended pressure and adjust accordingly.

Remote Starter (Key-FOBs $20-70, Installation varies)
During these cold winter months, a remote starter is an enviable amenity. Sitting cozily in your home, you can ignite and warm your engine before venturing out into an early morning blizzard. You can buy a remote starter at most auto parts stores but you may need to take your vehicle to a mechanic or dealer to have the transmitter installed.

GPS Navigation System ($200-700)
Portable global positioning systems have been out for a couple of years and have improved in reliability and ease of use. Most provide software updates to account for changing traffic patterns and are very handy when traveling. More upscale models offer a voice-prompted navigation aid and their maps have more detail. Some systems can also self-adjust their screen’s brightness based on outside weather conditions. For anyone that is “directionally challenged”, a GPS can be the most useful Christmas gift around.

Automotive gifts are both practical and fun, and some can even keep you out of harm’s way. Treat your favorite road warrior (or yourself) and above all, have a great holiday. AutoExtra.com: We’re all you need.

Better than some automakers "detectors"

LaneFX actually shows you what's lurking in your blind spot!

  1. Change lanes safely: Always use your turn signal before changing lanes or merging into highway traffic lanes. Turn signal aftermarket power mirrors are great, but they still don't give you complete coverage of the cars in your blind spot.
  2. LaneFX is the best automotive technology for your auto safety.
  3. Unlike some automakers' systems, Lane FX has no blinking lights, no false positives, and no learning curve. It uses what you normally use: your vehicle's side mirror!
  4. Perfect for new drivers with learner's permit. Don't take the DMV driver license test without it!
  5. Volvo XC90, S80 and Audi Q7 blind spot detectors can't match LaneFX. In each of these systems, the blinking lights in your blind spot mirrors can get very distracting.
  6. LaneScan is a good solution for semi-trucks, but for your commercial van fleet LaneFX is the clear solution because of its OEM compatibility.
  7. Lane FX Fleet Edition now available for light and medium duty commercial trucks and vans. It's preferred 2-to-1 by commercial fleet managers over the LaneScan Go Zone system.
  8. AARP: helps senior drivers avoid fatal accidents by advocating proper turn signal use and and 100% checking of senior driver's blind spot.

Buy LaneFX
Upgrade Your LaneFX
Accessories & Add-On's
Locate Certified Installers
Web Specials & Promotions
Guaranteed Universal Fit

FEATURES & OPTIONS
Standard Features Interactive List
Standard Features Printable List
Turn Signal Link
ParkFX
Mirror Speed Boost
Instant Web Upgrades
Accessories & Add-On's Multi-Vehicle Kit
Accessories & Add-On's End-of-Lease Kit
Accessories & Add-On's Parts Bin

BLIND SPOT INFO
About Drivaware Inc.
Press Room[ and Media Library ]
Press Room[ and Media Library ] LaneFX TV
Press Room[ and Media Library ] Press Releases
Investors Forum
New Car Dealers
Aftermarket Retailers & Distributors
Auto OEM's
Trading Partner Login [ Restricted Access ]

FEATURED AUTO SAFETY ARTICLES & OTHER LINKS FOR SAFE LANE CHANGES
LaneFX is Safe for Leased Vehicles
LaneFX Voted #1 Driver Awareness Technology by BlindSpotSystems.com

HOW TO CHANGE LANES SAFELY WITH LANEFX

LaneFX Demo

Virtual LaneFX Tour
Top 10 Ways Drivers Use LaneFX
LaneFX Moments
Blind Spot Challenge / Driver Awareness Index Study
Driver Safety Surveys

COMPARE LATEST 12-VOLT CAR GADGETS
Competitive Comparisons
Why LaneFX is Right For You
Compare LaneFX
10 Reasons to Replace Your Stick-On Convex Auxilliary Mirrors with LaneFX
Independent Research Studies Stress the Importance of Safer Lane Changes

CONTACT OUR EXPERT DRIVERS ED INSTRUCTORS

Contact Us
Support Central
Owners Guide
Installation Guide
Warranty & Return Policy
Contact Technical Support
Frequently-Asked Questions (FAQ)
FAQ Printer Friendly Version
Tell A Friend About LaneFX
Drivaware Corporate Info
AARP: Safe Driving Tips for Senior Drivers
LaneFX Site Map Site MapLaneFX Site Map Drivaware Corporate Gateway CorporateDrivaware Corporate Gateway Chat with LaneFX Safety Team Customer ServiceContact Customer Service View Shopping Cart / Checkout Shopping Cart
LaneFX is proudly made in the USA using US-sourced components MADE IN U.S.A. Drivaware reminds you to always wear your seatbelt, exercise caution when merging or changing lanes, obey all traffic laws and always rely on your primary senses in making driving decisions. Drivaware and LaneFX are trademarks of Drivaware Inc. Patents Pending. Copyright © 2005-08. All rights reserved. Drivaware Inc. 1756 Plymouth Rd., Suite #500, Ann Arbor, MI 48105 USA.
 
 
LaneFX is designed from the ground up for greater price competitiveness, higher customer appeal, and better profitability for our resellers.
     
We continuously benchmark LaneFX against the best-selling automotive aftermarket products on the market. The results are simply unbeatable.
 
3
LaneFX is a 30 second show-and-tell
 
The most brilliant aspect of LaneFX is its simplicity. A 30-second demonstration usually leads to greater customer interest and eventually a sale. There is no in-vehicle add-on products that can be demo'd in less time than LaneFX, not even satellite radio. The quicker the product presentation, the less taxing it will be on your customer's attention span and willingness to buy.

Don't forget the power of LaneFX's "wow-factor". Your buyers invariably react with the "Why didn't I think of that!" response. That's the reaction you want because more discussion leads to more consideration which ultimately lead to a sale.
 
4

LaneFX drives incremental revenues from installation services and add-on's

 
As a valued LaneFX Reseller, your retail locations will be trained and designated as LaneFX Certified Installation Centers. Since every LaneFX system sale leads to installation services (approx. 3 labor hrs + supplies), your opportunity to drive more revenue and margin from every LaneFX transaction continues to increase.
   
5

LaneFX can drive more revenues well after the sale
 

LaneFX is pioneering a brand new way to do business in the automotive aftermarket. It is designed to help generate more revenues to our resellers well after a customer purchases and installs a LaneFX system.

LaneFX's Soft Optioning technology allows customers to purchase and instantly activate optional system features directly from the internet. Your customers can do so at anytime after you've sold and installed their initial LaneFX system. Every Instant Web Upgrade that one of your customers purchases at LaneFX.com translates into follow-on revenue dollars to you. This is a partnership commitment that you won't see from traditional aftermarket product manufacturers.

   
6

LaneFX Certified Safety Center program gives you unprecedented marketing support
 
Our team is committed to your success with the LaneFX product. As such, we have designed a marketing support program that is comprehensive and can be easily integrated within your retail operations. See the adjacent column for a summary of our LaneFX Certified Safety Center program benefits.
 
1
LaneFX has a broader, higher customer appeal
 
J.D. Power & Associates has ranked blind spot systems as the second-most requested automotive technology by consumers 2. Your buyers experience the effects of changing lanes in their daily commutes and are ready for a solution that fits their driving style. LaneFX is simple, adaptable, and customers get it!
 
2
LaneFX draws unique consumer segments that currently don't visit mobile electronics stores
 

Let's face it: The 12-volt market is steadily shrinking. Last year's technology is today's commodity and with limited new product categories, retailers are selling the same products to the same customers at dwindling margins.

Not convinced? Ask yourself: When was the last time a senior citizen walked into your showroom? When was the last time a soccer mom (women drivers with Minivans/SUVs) bought something from your store?

Because LaneFX brings focus to driving safety, you will see it become a catalyst to new consumer segments with higher spending potential. In fact, since the introduction of LaneFX, 28% of our direct sales have been to senior citizens (most with AARP) and 31% of our sales were to women drivers.

We don't need to tell you about your business. The automotive aftermarket (wholesale or retail) segment is highly competitive with razor-thin product margins and demanding customer base. Sure, you could stock yet another iPod link, nav unit, remote start or a good old radar detector. But where are the margins? Where's the exclusivity? Stocking these popular product segments only builds a "me-too" product selection where you can only compete on price. Additionally, none of these products differentiate your stores in the eyes of the customer and you're still faced with that pesky product profitability issue.

Meet LaneFX: the brand new aftermarket product that is so new, so innovative that it has created an entirely new product category in the mind of the consumer: the Driver Awareness Technologies segment. LaneFX has wide product appeal, low customer-resistence and can drive higher closing ratios and healthier wholesale and retail margins to your bottom line.

All of this focus on margin cannot be possible without the right pricing model. LaneFX's wholesale pricing (to both distributors as well as retailers) is one of the most aggressive in the industry. The gap between our wholesale prices and the MSRP for the LaneFX product line gives you unprecedented flexibility in packaging the product to your buyers. But don't take our word for it! Request LaneFX Reseller Program information including our introductory wholesale pricing sheet. You will be pleased with the way LaneFX fits your business.

 
J.D. Power & Associates' Consumer Survey on Emerging Automotive Technologies reports:
2nd

most wanted feature by consumers in their next new vehicle purchase 2
79%
of consumers would purchase blind spot system 2
Plus,
Voted #1
  
In an ongoing web poll 3, LaneFX was voted Best 2006 Driver Awareness Technology by over 2,000 drivers

The LaneFX Certified Safety Center Program is one of the most unique reseller marketing support programs in the business. It is designed to reduce your risk and to drive more revenue and margin to your business.
 

 
Download the LaneFX Reseller Program brochure and see how LaneFX can drive more margin to your showroom.


Our Reseller Marketing Support program offers:
 
Aggressive wholesale discounts
 
-
Our competitive wholesale pricing model gives you ultimate flexibility in retail pricing and pre-bundling
 
-
Special additional discounts for high volume / multi-point resellers.
 
Comprehensive training program
 
-
Customized training for your sales teams, at no-charge
 
-
No-charge installation training and certification for your technicians 5
 
PLUS Unprecedented Marketing Support
 
-
Co-branded Point-Of-Sale displays [see example]
 
-
Co-branded tri-fold customer brochures [see example]
 
-
POP hanging mirror tags [see example 1, example 2]
 
-
"Certified LaneFX Safety Center" designation and preferred placement in retailer/installer directory
 
-
Co-branded web page that integrates with your current web presence with no outside links
 
Protected vehicle brand / market combinations available
 
-
Hurry! Major markets are almost gone 6



1 Claim based on new and pre-owned vehicle sales from dealers participating the LaneFX Pilot Dealer Program in the Detroit Metropolitan market from 1/2/06 through 4/30/06.
2 Source: J.D. Power & Associates Consumer Report on Emerging Automotive Technologies, 2004.
3 Source: BlindSpotSystems.com driver web poll and editorial review and ratings.
4 Source: ValeoRaytheon Systems' survey of NA auto dealers, 2003..
5 Limited to qualified, experienced technicians only.
6 New car dealers only. Not available in all markets. Not all dealers qualify. Contact us for more details.