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!

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CONTENTS: LaneFX Wholesale Pricing Information for Mobile Electronic Retailers & Distributors

How To Avoid Car Gadgets & Choose the Right Park Assist Technology for Your Driving Safety

Aftermarket companies offer three types of backup systems: rear-view cameras, sensor systems, and mirror tilt-down. Use Types to decide which type best suits your needs. For all camera and sensor systems, we recommend professional installation.

No matter what type of system you choose, consider these things when deciding on a specific model:

Know how the device mounts on your vehicle.

Camera and sensor systems that are mounted on the vehicle’s bumper or bodywork may necessitate drilling. They may not be the best choice if you lease your vehicle. If you have a hitch, you can consider a model that mounts in the trailer-hitch receiver. But you would have to remove the system to use your hitch. Other camera and sensor models mount on the license-plate frame. But some states prohibit frames because they can obscure the plate.

Within types, features vary. This is especially true with the sensor models we tested. The ultrasonic systems were generally the most sensitive, but their performance was adversely affected by rain, snow, or other inclement weather.

The microwave-based sensor systems we tested were not affected by weather but are less sensitive as a group. They also don’t warn the driver unless the vehicle or object behind it is moving.

The display quality of the camera-based models is very good, although it doesn’t match that of the larger screens on some carmakers’ systems. Most of the system displays turn on when the vehicle shifts into reverse, but one, the Audiovox, must be turned off and on manually.

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.

OhGizmo Special Product Review

LaneFX - Blind Spots Revealed

A lot of new cars include detection systems that will alert the driver when a vehicle (or some other large object) is sitting in their blind spot. Drivaware is now selling a third-party solution that does more than just alert the driver when something is in their blind spot, it shows them.

When the turn signals are activated the LaneFX system will automatically move the corresponding side mirror outwards showing the driver what might be hiding in the vehicle’s blind spot. The LaneFX system can also include the ParkFX feature which will automatically tilt both side mirrors down while the vehicle is being driven in reverse.

The Drivaware LaneFX system can be installed on any car with power side mirrors and is available in a Basic Edition for $197, a Highway Edition for $242 and a Commuter Edition for $296 depending on what features you may need.

Car-Savvy Gift Ideas for Drivers & Commuters

Finding the perfect gift for your car-savvy man can be quite the challenge. Your main goal is to avoid comments like, "It's the thought that counts" and "Well, honey, at least you tried." Besides, why waste money on goofy stuff he's just going to shelve away in the back of the garage? Face it, your guy has grown tired of the clichéd car-care gift box, or the handy tool kit with the pretty plastic case. You know the ones — the quick and easy prepackaged arrays that are always so prominently displayed at your local discount superstore.

If you haven't a clue what kind of car-related gifts really push his buttons, have no fear. We are here to end the cycle — an automotive gift-giving "intervention." With a quick scan of our handy-dandy top 10 car-savvy gift list, you can now buy with confidence. Not only will he be impressed with the actual gift, you'll wow him with your amazing thoughtfulness and in-depth research. That is "the thought that counts."

1. Hitch Cover: If your guy has a receiver-type towing hitch on his vehicle, this simple add-on will guarantee a smile. Many styles are available — from sports team logos to illuminated smiley faces. The folks at www.etrailer.com have a wide array of options. We especially like the cobra with light-up eyes ($24.95). Take note, this gift may require some research to determine the size of the receiver hitch opening.

2. Slush Mats: Also known as heavy-duty rubber floor mats. A nice array of custom-fit mats can be found at www.weathertech.com. Their deep grooves and rugged textures are designed to catch all sorts of grime and grunge.

3. Bacon Air Freshener: Face it — guys like bacon. Well, maybe not all guys. But if yours is a bacon-'n-eggs man, he'll get a kick out of a bacon-shaped air freshener (set of three for $4.95) scented to " give the family "a sudden craving for a BLT." You can find this, as well as a corn-dog-scented variety, at www.mcphee.com.

4. Solar Battery Saver: Your guy will be impressed that you thought of this one. If he has a rarely driven vehicle (that sits outside exposed to sunlight), he'll love this handy device that provides just enough juice to keep the vehicle's battery charged. We found a simple solar battery saver ($30) at www.batterystuff.com that sits on the dashboard, and plugs right into the lighter/power outlet. Guess who'll no longer have to unhook the battery when he's not going to be driving his car for a while, and guess who won't have to get a jump-start when he wants to go for a quick spin? You'll be a hero.

5. Vintage eBay Finds: The ultimate source of just about anything, www.ebay.com, offers a wealth of gift ideas for just about any car nut. Here's the secret: find out your guy's favorite car-related topic. Let's say, for example, he's really into classic Mustangs. Search eBay using keywords like "rare Mustang" or "Mustang brochure." A list of hard-to-find Mustang-related stuff will appear before your eyes. Something as simple as a $20 vintage Mustang sales brochure will knock his socks off. Note: this may not work too well if your guy already shops for things like this on eBay himself.

6. Magnetic Tool Holder: Don't ever buy your guy any tool as a gift, unless you know of a very specific tool he wants. Your chances of buying the right brand are slim, and you may even end up getting him something he already owns. Really, how often do you inventory his workbench? A better gift idea is something to organize the tools he already has. Craftsman offers a handy Mag Mat ($14.99), which is essentially a strong magnetic sheet. Tools are steel, and steel sticks to magnets. Pretty simple.

7. Nutty Key Chain: No, we're not talking about those gag key chains with tacky phrases or lewd images. We're talking real nuts (and bolts) here. This unusual item can be found at www.uncommongoods.com. The "I'm nuts about you" key ring ($20), replete with silver- and gold-plated nuts, is sure to be a hit.

8. Portable Navigation System: Yeah, we know — guys never get lost, so there's no need for them to ever stop for directions. So think of this as a fun gadget — not a tool to help him find his way. Magellan offers a variety of portable GPS units sure to fit his active (or inactive) lifestyle.

9. Titanium Wallet: How many guys do you know who carry a metal wallet? Any real car guy will dig a wallet made of aircraft grade titanium and aluminum (though he may not relish the idea of sitting on it). Brought to you by the crafty individuals at onthefly.com, the pricey Gary Scott USA Polished Sammy Wallet ($345) will make a very unique gift.

10. Bullitt: We have saved the best for last. The 1968 movie Bullitt is the Holy Grail for many a car guy. This legendary flick combines the coolest movie star ever, Steve McQueen, with by far the most incredible car chase scene ever caught on film. Assuming he doesn't already own it, get your man the DVD ($13.99).

Steering Wheels Get More and More Buttons

The steering wheel is quickly become the control center for the entire vehicle. Auto manufacturer's are using the steering wheel to add new buttons and controls for everything from controlling the radio to switching gears. USA Today reports that many cars already have 10 to 15 different buttons on the steering wheel:

The fingertip frenzy isn't just about luxury cars, either. Sure, the $73,750 Range Rover SUV offers 10 buttons or toggles, not including the horn. And the $49,100 Acura RL sedan has 16, in addition to two thumb paddles for manually changing gears. But Toyota's humble — albeit fully-loaded — $26,040 Prius gas-electric hybrid sedan includes 15 places to mash a thumb into the steering wheel.

Automakers say the buttons help motorists keep their fingers on the wheel instead of having to fiddle with dials and knobs on the dashboard, making driving safer.
Many more steering wheel control buttons are expected in future vehicles. USA Today's article said the new Mercedes-Benz M-Class will "let drivers control the volume and play list of their Apple iPod digital music players from the steering wheel." But voice commands are coming as well which may make these buttons less important. Why press a button when you can just say "Window Washers On. Maximum Speed." Auto manufacturers will have to caution to keep these steering wheel buttons and voice commands from getting out of hand.
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"!

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 © 2006-09. 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
 
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Special additional discounts for high volume / multi-point resellers.
 
Comprehensive training program
 
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Customized training for your sales teams, at no-charge
 
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No-charge installation training and certification for your technicians 5
 
PLUS Unprecedented Marketing Support
 
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Co-branded Point-Of-Sale displays [see example]
 
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Co-branded tri-fold customer brochures [see example]
 
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POP hanging mirror tags [see example 1, example 2]
 
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"Certified LaneFX Safety Center" designation and preferred placement in retailer/installer directory
 
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Co-branded web page that integrates with your current web presence with no outside links
 
Protected vehicle brand / market combinations available
 
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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.