Vep magazine april by Vehicle Enhancement Professional

for

Velr

icle Electrorrics Professiona

{N THIS ISSUE

Whati, going on?

lmage is everything

Tricks and gadgets

April 2014

ln association with

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ffio fmffik and dm bax$Xm&ss On the page or in the flesh, ideas are out there... ! I I

t's been a while now since the new

team took over at

VEP.

We've done our

best to make the new-look magazine

all those other things

the aftermarket forwards. And let's be

It's

important to think in terms of

honest sharing a beer and a laugh with other people in the same boat is always

into something that offers you some real

the future, too, which

- notjust glossy pictures, but practicaltips and material that could help

mentioning digital radio. Just because tde

benefits

that keep pushing

number of vehicles in a fleet, you start to see some serious numbers appearing.

why we keep

worth doing, too. Can you guess where this is going?

majority of the public haven't cottoned

with your skills and knowledge and which

on to the fact that in a few years'time it

That's right. VEP lnstaller, the must-attend

will be reflected on your bottom line.

will be in almost every car on the road,

event for the aftermarket,

that doesn't mean we shouldn't be taking

from June 10-1

Itt not

always the most obvious ideas

of amount of

taking place

this year. lt has the same

that can make the biggest difference, and

steps now to see about cornering some

aims as this magazine, but it's in three

that's why we've chosen fleets as our cover

the market - there's a massive business to be unlocked there in the near-

dimensions and full of real people.

story this month. Maybe your local freight

firm don't have much need for top-end

ish future, so why

audio upgrades, but there's any number

free place at www.ve pi nstol le r.co.u k.

not be prepared?

But we're just a monthly magazine

You can find out more and bookyour

tell us what you want to see or

of other gadgets that can help their

there's only so much we can fit into our

Please

operations and that you can go out and

pages. Nothing beats getting together in

im l/,EP. Callus on 0'1423 851 '!50

sellto them - and then when you multiply a single purchase and installation by the

the flesh with other industry insiders to

ennai ! VEP@b a rke rbrooks.ca. uk.

talk, listen, show watch, teach, learn and

Our next issue is out in early lblay"

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Contents

q NtrMf T!L!TV ,'i,

COVER FEATURE: FLEET SERVICES

INDUSIRY A great leap

forward for

It may not be the glamour end of the market FCS

but working with fleet managers can offer you

i,.

huge opportunities

AUDIO & NAVIGATION Unexpectedly, Neil Young appears in VEP!

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DIGITAL RADIO An Olympic hero helps the cause

CAR F0CU5: SSANGYONG K0RAND0 Basic specifications on this increasingly popular car

mean theret plenty of room to upgrade.

SMARTPHONE Here comes

(ar Play

INSTALL GUIDE: CRUISE (0NTR0L Laserline

mu58e'â&#x201A;Ź55 ..

',-'

show you how to keep it steady

INSTALLER OPlNl0N: RICHARD TAYL0R

ANDY MILLS ls Facebook always something

S.P.A

to'like'?

lf you're not actively selling DAB, why not?

... JEFF 5(OTT Spending money on your image isn't vain

.i I i

TOOLBOX Things to make life easier. What! not to like?

t...

THE GENEVA CONVENTION Tomorrowt innovations and a lot of cars we'll never

VEP DIRECTORY

be able to afford feature at this stunning motor show

Never be

without a number

VEP magazine

lApril 201

American demo cars There is a bit of a trend Stateside at the moment

for using

a customised classic as

the basis for

a demo car. Kicker, available in the UK through

Armour Automotive, currently has this 1950 Studebaker Champion, featuring a new black cherry paint job with copper accents, 20 inch wheels and a leather interior, plus Kicker amps, 0 inch subs and QS component speakers. Rather

than a modern head unit, which would looktoo out of place up front, it has a Kicker PXiBT50.2 amplifier as part of the system, which music from a

smartphone can be streamed to.

Cameras vs sensors

A new study in the US claims that cameras are more effective than sensors when trying to park a car.The lnsurance

lnstitute for Highway Safety

(llHS) had volunteers reverse a 201 3 Chevy

Equinox, with a child-sized dummy placed in its blind spot. lt was hit every time when no

technology was used, but with rate was

560/0.

a camera

the hit-

Using sensors, only one out of 16

drivers avoided a crash, and using both sensors and cameras, the dummy was hit 750lo of the

time.The llHS said that

well

as being

the least

effective, beeping sensors may also give a false sense of security.

vre magazine lApril

20'14

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Connecting 2charity GoogleCar UK

distributor Connects2 will be entering

team of 16 into the Ben Nevis Charity Challenge

advances

this June, raising money for worthy causes. The challenge begins at Fort William, Scotland on June 7 at 6am, involving a trek of

'13

miles, there

and back, to the summit of Ben Nevis, followed by a 15-mile cycle, a 1 .8-mile canoe circuit of Loch Lochy, and a 10-mile cycle to the finish. Bowel

Cancer UK and the British Heart Foundation will be the charities benefitting. lf you wish to sponsor

the team, goto www.justgiving.com and enter

'Connects2'in the search window.

ecommerce for Cobra @ts.*.*"

It has been working on self-drive technology for a

while - with its cars so far having covered 300,000 miles without incident - and Google has just won a patent that will take its development further.

for its aftermarket dealers, allowing for the speedy purchase of

involves technology that will automatically read

products. Dealers can pay via credit or debit card and view their

and interpret road signs, and oncoming obstacles,

order history via a

PC or smartphone,

with an online warranty

form for raising issues quickly and easily. Helpful links,

eIF;eactrrec6

Cobra has launched a new online ordering and payment system

FAQ

and can even make the car follow diversions.

Commenting on the news, Ken McCall, managing

pages, plus technical and marketing information for download,

director of Europcar

have also been provided. Development of the platform was

we have always been first to embrace new

UK Group,

said:'At Europcar,

based on dealer feedback, with each receiving a unique login

technology

code for use at the website below. Call to set up an account.

prospect of having Google do the driving for mel'

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and I am personally excited by the

iiar:i,{+,

Newera for FCS

Safetyfirst

The FCS (Federation of Communication Services) has a new

When it comes to in-car technology, consumers

logo and a revised mandate, just in time for the upcoming

place electronic safery equipment over audio and

VEP

lnstaller event, which it is partnering with. The all-industry trade

entertainment, a new survey has found. Research

association has catered to its members'needs, but until now has

group Strategy Analytics asked people to rank in terms

not made the voice of business-to-business communications

of importance what they look for when purchasing a

understood by policy-makers, it says in the press release."We are not just one industry among many, clamouring for attention;' says

the three top spots. ln fourth place were advanced safety

FCS CEO Chris Pateman."We are

featurel such

vehicle, with quality, price and fuel consumption taking

the one vital enabling industry

without which nothing else happens."See the website for details. i.j'r: rj!,.!:: i

",:

r:.

as night vision and blind spot detection,

with audio ranking ninth. The research

contradictory

to what some manufacturers have said - with Ford stating that its Sync system has increased sales. Y.rrdi6"5

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Grom adds more Grom Audio has added a number of Mitsubishi vehicles to its compatibility list, so if you get a customer

with

Outlander Sport in the coming you know who to call.The company

a 2005 Lancer or a new

months, looking to upgrade their

OE system,

offers car kits for adding Android, USB, Bluetooth, Aux in and iPod/iPhone integration,

allowing users to make handsfree calls, stream music, or access a navigation system through their mobile device, operated via the standard steering wheel controls or head unit. Mitsubishis dating back to 1 998 are now catered for.

j.',:;:r,,r : ;i'.1.- i: jd9:.j::, r'. r./".,.t3i'.i::::i,-.io.r\ VEP magazine

lApril 201a

s*Hk%ss

Celsustrip planned

Dealers Laserline wanted latest S-p-A- lrrwlfEl, Rob Walker has

joined Laserline

SPA

Ltd in

Warrington, Cheshire, as its authorised sales and support agent for London and the South East. Any new dealers can contact Rob on

07826 653689, or rob.walkerl@mac.com and he will be offering the full line of Laserline products, we have been working with Rob since June 2013. All existing customers in

Lucky Celsus dealers will be heading off to Florida JL Audio factory in Miramar is

this month.The

the chosen destination, with two days of training and networking planned. Some of this will be handled by Chris Bennett, the director of business development at Celsus; and SteveTurrisi, JL Audiot director or training and technical services (pictured) will also be present.This will be a great chance for dealers to learn about products directly

from the source, becoming re-engerised about the brand and learning first-hand what the company .-,.:t:

, ....."'::'-

. r"..:

launching a new brand ofCCTV products and live recording systems called SilentWitness.

like to thank those who have sponsored him for his various fundraising events (see

The line caters to a wide range of vehicles and applications, with single or twin systems, crash

uk.virginmoneygiving.com/timkentl) is the Wakefield 10K on APril 6. .. :: t, t.."r : t.r. : i- + :.i l::.it i-i -:: i:': ::i :: :i i :: :

sensors, GPS and full HD included. Protecting

the driver against trash for cash'schemes, speeding up insurance claim processes,

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his next

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monitoring blind spots or recording driver training for review later aie all benefits. Silent Witness products come with a three-year warranty and eye-catching POS material, with stockists being sought now. '(

means by its tagline,'How we PlaYi

Parksafe Automotive has diversified its range,

this area will continue to be looked after by Tim and the sales office. Tim would also

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BikeTrac success

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Showseason begins

Bike Trac shared one

of its latest success stories

last month, revealing that it had successfully recovered a British-owned Ducati 899 Panigale .l,000 miles away from where it was stolen, over

with help from lnterpol.The motorcycle tracking device had been fitted to the f1 2,000 bike, taken by thieves in London, alerting both its owner and March saw the Ultimate Dubs show take place

Mobile Media Association) turned up with its

at the lnternational Centre in Telford, which is the first major modified car show of the year.

new VW Lupo demo ca1 packed with Rockford

The indoor event had an impressive gathering

was also present, with a stand pushing itsVibe range of home and car audio. (This month sees

of VW, Audi, Seat and Skoda vehicles from across Europe, courtesy of the many clubs and

companies in attendance. EMMA UK (European

Vee magazine

lApril 2014

Fosgate products, while Midbass Distribution

the Gadget Show Live at Birmingham il.,: ir., i.!,j i./i.. rr t ! 1: i:ii : - i it !: :, r' !

NEC.)

the Secure Operating Centre (SOC). lt was then tracked as it crossed the Channel, finally stopping in Lithuania where the authorities made arrests' Bike Trac has an RRP of f299, with a f99 first-year subscription. -, l,: ::,*,i r :t :: : i-l r' :, i: :-: i: :i ii ::

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Cameras / Monitors Mercedes Camera & Mon tor System

lncident Recorders Dash Cameras & Dlgilal Video Recorders

Reverse / Side Alarms

s@ MultJrequency,

at The CommercialVehicle Show 2014

T(,AD\S

SECURIry ""-q?

Thatcham .@ Category 5

scorpiont

Beep & Voice

NEWS Audio & Navigation

Pono unveiled Looking to get hi-def music into the car?This could be the way to do it musician. The portable players and online store for No, pono is not a distant relative of Bono from U2, but it does have a connection to another famous

high-qualitymusicfilesisthebrainchildof Neilyoung-launchedlastmonthonfundraisingwebsiteKickstarter,toppingtheUSSlmillionmarkinjustl2 USS700 of investment every minute. hours, and at 4g hours reaching USS2.5 million. Breaking it down, that means the idea was earning use making Pono with portable music, young hi-def people wanting has found a market for Clearly,

of FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec), containing at least six times the musical information of MP3. lt depends on the original recording, however, meaning that if it was converting an album made in ultra high-resolution, it could give as much as 30 times. A website for downloading music, supported by major record labels, is being launched. with images of the first portable PonoPlayer revealed. These are exciting times. with users able to simply plug the PonoPlayer into their car head unit. The device has a colour screen and just

three buttons, with 64GB of internal memory, boosted to 128G8 with the included microSD card (storing 1,000-2,OOO songs). As

well as FLAC, it will play

other common music formats. The Kickstarter web page will be live until mid-April, and

the PonoPlayer

is available

there for US5300,

shipping early October. The price is expected to be USS399 when it launches in stores, with albums purchased online costing US515-US525. There are other hi-def music services available, such as HDtracks.com, with other companies similarly announcing portable players. But

we have seen with Beats by Dre headphones, star power and celebrity endorsement is a huge plus.

www.ponomusic.com

New Kenwood screen

Logic dictates

Think your customers might like a Kenwood in-dash screen for f399? The DDX4O25DAB is just that, showing how the price of such products has

fallen over the years. Part ofthe brand's 2014 line-up, this model features a 6.1 inch touchscreen, a DVD slot, Bluetooth for handsfree phone calls and music streaming, iPod/iPhone integration and a built-in digital radio tuner. lt can handle a wealth of music and video formats too, with a rear camera input included. That is a lot of capability for the money, with the

option to add navigation at a later date. Kenwood 0I923 8'16444, www'kenwood-electronics.co.uk

Media in Motion is launching the second generation of its DVB-Logic range this month. The latest version has a USB port for connecting a hard drive. with a dedicated HDMI output for rear entertainment, plus MPEG2

and MPEG4 (HD) compatibility.The usual AV input and output is provided, with two active glass-mount antennas, and the device can be used with select OE and aftermarket systems.There is a dedicated aftermarket reverse camera input too, a video-in-motion facility, and a remote to control viewing from the back seat. RRP is f469 plus VAT.

Media in Motion Ol21 311 9Oll,www.media-in-motion.co.uk

Vre magazine lApril 2014

Back in black

Feel the

New amplifiers are on the way from

force

Vibe, expanding the brandt BlackAir range. There

Sometimes a product is so cool,

are two models

you have no choice but to include

in question,

with the s4-v1

it in the magazine. lt's as if something unseen is willing you,

four-channel

almost like

and C5-V1

appropriate, then, that the items

a Jedi

this way currently

five-channel to

making

choose from. The

are these limited

four-channel

headphones

is rated at

us feel

mind trick. How

edition Star Wars

part of the Street

4 x 100W RMS into 4 ohms.

by 50 on-ear range from SMS

and is bridgeable, with Class D circuitry, an all-new power supply stage, an

Audio, the brand endorsed by

active crossover and aluminium end caps, topped off with a glossy finish.

rapper 50 Cent. Choose from Stormtrooper, Rebel Alliance, Boba Fett or lmperial designs, each with passive noise cancellation, enhanced bass,

The five-channel is rated at 4 x 90W + 1 x 300W RMS into 4 ohms, Class AB and Class D circuitry, a subsonic

iJig!:s: fi1/ i

: 1 3!-:9ii,

with both

filter and remote gain.

custom 40mm drivers, Ker:aitr

i;{.ff:'r,!.iL,:lal:ii;.i.:.:,u!.

sl i

foldable frame and detachable cord.

4:5 :S4ili'{}. r.1'11'{r.,kenicr..:ll.r:k

Kicker changes

Bombers away Cerwin-Vega turns 60 this year, and UK

New Kicker speakers

distributors G7 Direct will be helping

are on their way from

it to celebrate in style. A

the States. Pictured are

demo car

the new

is nearing

KSC67 coaxial

completion, and it

models, measuring 6.75

will have around 100

inches and rated at 200W

products launched

peak, from the updated

at CES (Consumer

KS-Series. Basically, Kicker

Electronics Show) in

is phasing

Las Vegas

line, and

to show to dealers.

out the

KS is

stepping

First ofthose to arrive is the Stealth

up to fill the gap. That means a more sophisticated-looking grille and a very

Bomber amplifier range, with the 82 two-channel (2 x 250W RMS at 2 ohms),

shallow mounting depth, enabling them to fit more vehicles.The tweeter

84 four-channel (4

x l50W

RMS at 2 ohms) and

Bl mono

(1 x 500W at 2

ohms). Each uses Class D technology, and has an auxiliary direct high level

matching input with adjustment, for use with C;-I,i :..: :ttt,..> i=:i. r-..-f .-...-:i, j..-i, i;.rj:

smartphone or tablet.

re** ManagE

niBaal6

toq via their

r The

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j::::O!a}iita.to:i'l

this month for

ln-Phase describe as an easy solution for anyone looking to upgrade their

dealers to stock more

factory-fi tted amplifi ers. lt accepts

motorbike products,

two, four or six channels of input

thanks to the updated

directly from the amp itsell so no

Tyre Pro software for

need to remove it, and combines

theTomTom Rider

them to give

navigation system.

signal, which can then be used with

The all-weather device

aftermarket product, including

with its glove-friendly

bigger amps and better speakers. A

screen allows riders

small box measuring just 162 x 150

to choose the fastest

x42mm, itwill nottake up much

according to the desired

a clean

full-range audio

room, which is handy in terms of the convenience it brings.

irr;:rrrrailenli

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This device is the SRC6 active high to low level processor, which makers

interest have also been added, including Alpine passes and petrol stations.

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next Phase

!n..Phasa

..i

the

been upgraded too.

distance, and even share with other users. Motorbike-specific points of

'"...

a 0.75 inch version on

Some new incentives

and most scenic routes, or the one with the most winding roads. Now owners can create their own winding routes

with

coaxials and a 1 inch model with the components. Crossovers on these have

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TomTom update

Plaawindrâ&#x201A;Ź route

has been upgraded to a silk dome version,

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plralrlnt*r*aii*r'oa !.io.u k VEP magazine

lApril 201a

NEWS Digital radio

Aerial solution

Westminster debates digital The recent Westminster Forum addressed the future of UK radio

Some dealers will tell you that one of the factors

March 12 saw the Westminster Forum take

holding back the sales of digital radio for cars

place, examining the future of the UK radio

aerials. Do customers really want a second, often

industry, with speakers given the chance to

unsightly one attached to their vehicles? And

voice their opinion. Digital radio was naturally

there is so much debate about the best types

a hot

anyway. Celsus has a new model that addresses

topic for discussion, especially following

some of these concerns, with its AN3020DAB

the Go Digital Conference last December, where

shark fin in gloss black, seen here from above,

many had hoped that culture minister Ed Vaizey

would have announced

a switchover date.

Members of the panel, such as Bauer Media

switchover date took too much emphasis away from running their businesses in

a way

that suited

managing director Steve Parkinson, which

them best and led to confusion. "Let's end the

owns Absolute Radio and Kiss, among others,

uncertainty ofthe switchover by scrapping it for

championed the format, highlighting the

nowi'he said. "Relieve existing local layer DAB

choice available and that it is free at the point

service providers of the threat of increased costs,

of delivery. The head of Digital Radio UK Ford

and free the industry from the stranglehold of

Ennais was likewise enthusiastic, adding that

licensing and formats in this new world of plenty.

everyone involved in radio should unite for a

Radio is in great shape right now

digital future. "The future for radio is digital,

that way."

but it

is also

let's keep

Cridland also spoke at the event, talking about

ensure radio remains competitive and relevant

radio listening on smartphones, expressing the need for it to not only be about a'battery-hungry,

in a multiplatform digital agel' Phil Riley,

Celsus 01 202 664390, www.celsusice.co.uk

small, local and national, working together to

looking very smart indeed, receiving AM/FM as well as DAB, and retailing for f69.

Managing director of MediaUK.com James

collaborative,"he said."Big and

founder of

commercial media

data-hungry app'. He also talked about how

group Orion Media, was the first to question

phones were a threat to the idea of a traditional,

the current development, howevel claiming

dedicated radio device, and that in cars, radio

that the government! switchover plans were

should still be championed among the increasing

flawed, and that FM/AM and digital should

number of complex infotainment systems, rather

be allowed to co-exist for at least a decade.

than simply audio.

He said that pushing companies towards a

www.getdigitalrad io.com

Wiggins meets Archers

Asteroid gets DAB Panotl Asteroid range can already receive digital radio stations via the internet, when a smartphone is

connected, but just in case a more traditional

solution

is required, help is now at hand. From

Dension comes a new add-on product, the DAB-U, which connects via

USB,

and

- we

are told by

distributors Chameleon - works perfectly with

New

Yorkshire station

the Parrot Asteroid Smart and Tablet models, and Last

monthl Sport Relief Day on March

coincided with Olympic aold medallist and Tour de France winner Sir Bradley Wiggins making a cameo appearance on Radio 4 soap opera Ihe Archers. The athlete played

judge the winner of

himsell called upon to

a Sport Relief event

that took

place in the show. "When I was asked to record a Sport Relief special for

The Archers,

there was no

way I could turn it down;'he said."l grew up with

pretty well on the Asteroid Mini.

A new digital radio station forYorkshire has

Chameleon Group 01206 500848,

launched, simply called Radio Yorkshire, offering

www.thechameleongroup.co.uk

sport, music and regional news. Wednesday, March 12 at 4pm marked its official debut after weeks of testing, with Kiss from a Rose by Seal the

first song played.The station has links toYorkshire Radio, which folded last year, started by former Leeds United chairman Ken Bates, and will carry

similar specialist sports shows. A website will

it on the radio in the house."

launch shortly.

www.bbc.<o.uk/radio4

www.getdigitalradio.<om

Vee magazine I April 2014

55 on the way The Samsung Galaxy 55 is now available

to preorder from selected retailers,

with

a UK release

date of April

1 1.

Previewed at the

MobileWorld Congress event in Spain recently, the

handset features a 5.1 inch display (the 54 was 5 inches), is waterproof

and has a fingerprint scanner for security purposes. The battery life and camera have also been

improved, wlth the photo editing tools said to be easier to use than previous examples. Other features

include Download Booster, bonding Wi-Fi and

LTE

increase data speeds, and a personal fitness tracker.

MirrorLink update MirrorLink

the technology designed to'mirror' a smartphone

display on an in-dash screen when the

two are connected, allowing the user to

PowaTag is

here

Android

access

compatible apps and content. lt has been adopted by several brands and car manufacturers, with

Peugeot the latest to include it as standard, joining

add-on

Toyota and

VW. The

group behind Minorlink - the

Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC)

has also

announced a new Developer FastTrack programme, designed to help companies make more compatible apps and lower their costs in doing so.

Calls

A new app is hoping to change the way we shop,

making purchases easier and more impulsive. PowaTag stores all

ofthe usert address and credit

card details, allowing them to scan a symbol found

XCarlink has launched a new interface that allows an OE in-dash screen to make use of an Android

operating system when

a SIM card

with mobile

for

universal charger A universal smartphone charger could be on the

on a magazine advert, catalogue or in a shop

data or a compatible smartphone is connected via

way,

window lt will then give an option to buy and have

tethering. lt can be used with any of the brand's

specific type rather than their own. During March,

with new laws forcing manufacturers to use

an item delivered with one click. Many high street

existing multimedia interfaces, with the Android

MEPs (Members of

companies have already signed up, and the app

features controlled by touch (an optional touch panel

voted overwhelmingly in favour of the idea

can even recognise inaudible codes transmitted via

is placed over

wireless keyboard

which could see it initiated by 2017.|t is hoped

touchpad. Switching to the interface with the

that a common charger would help consumers

the screen), or via

the European Parliament)

music (so users can buy the song they are listening

with

to, for example). lt also works with proximity

original controls, drivers can then browse the internet

and cut down on electronic waste. The favoured

transmitters, and can flash up information on the

and download apps. lt even has an SD card slot, from

design is apparently a Micro USB connector,

usert handset when they walk to

which it can play music or movie files, routing the

but the proposal

audio through an Aux in socket.

would need to be approved by

store display.

a particular in-

still only in its draft phase. lt a council,

with

manufacturers granted time to adopt it.

VEP magazine

lApril 2O1a

Has using social media sites like Facebook as a business tool had its day? Andy Mills; former editor of MENand industry journalist

i I I sy -

m ax@ h ot m o i l.co

fake Facebook pages and paying for ads, the makers ofthe

excellent way to reach customers. After all, how else

video monitored the users and interaction, and concluded it was almost worthless. But then, you'll also find plenty of other videos

could you connect with people who are into what you

Contact Andy on m

or quite some time, social media has seemed like an

do, keep them updated in an instant and all with relatively little

explaining how Facebook ads work.

fuss or expense? Those who are active on Facebook may well

What brought this to my attention was one particular company on Facebook that claimed it was leaving the site due to the huge

have seen their'likes'rise into the thousands

so every time you

posted a deal or example ofyour work, thousands of active likers

would

see it.

But then, perhaps only hundreds ofyour fans would see your

did

pay, the money soon disappeared

without any real benefit.

posts, sometimes even tens. Understandably, Facebook decided

Conversely, there are sure to be many companies who have felt

that people didn't want their news feeds littered with stories

taking Facebook ads has had

from companies that they had impulsively

hit'like'on.

You can target the ?9â&#x201A;Ź,

lf they were often

commenting

on your stories or hitting the'like' button,

they may still

see

them appear...ifthey

didn't, your page would all but disappear

interests and location of who you want to

from their lives. So how can you get them back? Facebook ads, apparently. ln recent times,

you may have seen a link regarding 'Facebook as a business tooli and

ifyou

click through you can learn all about it.

want to reach

know how it

is,

a hugely beneficial impact, but you

the bad reviews or stories are the ones that stick.

The crux of the matter seems to be that it's too murky to say for sure whether using Facebook as a business tool is prudent' MySpace is dead,Twitter has its place and lnstagram relies on

having images to share. Facebook seems the only medium worth bothering with for dealers, but will it mean you're just chasing your tail? Build a page, attract fans, then keep having to target adverts at new fans to keep the interaction high - it seems like you're in for some hard slog to not only build genuine fans, but keep them informed of what you're up to. For some, it may be

worth it. Facebook

still a default app

A friendly Californian-sounding woman

or webpage for many, but from an idealistic point of view,

guides you, with images of beautiful

it's sad that the need to monetise (excuse the Americanism!)

people enjoying an active life with big,

something that started offwith the noble aim of letting friends

successful smiles.The gist of it is: pay us and people will'like'you' You can target the age, interests and location ofwho you so if you sold left-handed scissors in the UK,

for

interact for free has transformed into a bit of a minefield. You can understand why businesses, who may already feel financially aggrieved by reduced profit margins and higher expenses,

example, you could effectively target lefties directly. But before

are now feeling equally annoyed at having to pay to keep a

you get your credit card out, can you be sure it really work?

once-free business tool effective. At the same time, you can

lf you search for'Veritasium'on YouTube and watch the

'Facebook fraud'videq it makes bold claims that these ads

ultimately do a similar thing to tlick farms'- institutions most

understand why Facebook needs to find ways to make revenue, so you can't be

too outraged.

Smart businesses are sure to find

way to keep social media

employ low-paid workers to click away at the'like'button for

working for them. Perhaps you're one that continues to flourish thanks to sites like Facebook; if so, we'd love to hear from you.

you (it makes for an impressive number, but if these followers

But if you've resisted social media and are still profitable, well

are all in Asia, what can you actually do with it?). By setting up

perhaps you're smarter still.

likely in the Far East, which completely against Facebook rules

fanbase (over 100,000) it had built up no longer being able to see the majority of what it posted - unless it paid' And when it

Vee magazine I April 2014

OPINION JeffScott

lmage is everything ifitstuff.com managing director Jeff Scott asks, how important is it to invest - and reinvest - in your business? Literally priceless, and that means getting the right brand image esides your

while my installer, Matt, was in an old T4 that

is too old to go into the London low emission zone! lt was just

reputation, your brand

not fair on my valued customers (especially new car

the one

thing that determines the

and commercial dealers) for us to represent them badly,

type of customer you will

but more importantly it was not fair for me or Sussex

attract. lfyou have

lnstallations to be seen as anything less than the top

a shop

or vehicle

that looks old or

outdated,

itt

brand in the area.

Something had to be done, so I put a nearly-new

falling apart

with faded signage, and your

van on fleet, we redesigned the company logo and the

website looks like

signwriting around current products, and I spent the

five-

year-old made it, or you or

best part of f2,000 on the look of the two vehicles. I also

your staff look scruffy, what

restocked the consumable trays, cable rack and anything

kind of customer will you

else that needed it.

- who

Jeff Scott is the managing

get? Probably the sort that none of us really wants

director of ifitstuff.com

expects something for nothing, and an installer desperate

Contact Jeff and the rest of the team via ifitstuff.com

enough to spend

a day

fitting whatever they have

made some surprising and worrying observations. Very

bought on eBay. lfthey wanted someone to take care of their treasured vehicle and didn't mind paying a bit extra to have

a top

job done, they wouldn't have settled for

not-so-classy establishment. for a week Iast year in a popular resort, and it looked like

ofthe restaurants and bars were waiting to be put

950/o

developing their skills

few are willing to invest money in their business, and even fewer are willing to go out of their way to invest in

training and developing their skills. Many don't even have an advertising budget, or an up-to-date website that

People willjudge a book by its cover. I was in Tenerife

Very few are willing to invest money in their business, and even less are willing to go out of their way to invest in training and

Speaking with numerous retail shop owners and

mobile installers in the last few years, however, I have

appears on the first page of Google for searches in their

will moan about the state of the industry (about Halfords and internet prices), yet less than % of

area. Nearly all

those are willing to actually try to change things for the

out of their misery! With

better

faded signage, dirty interiors

of the year to attend our only trade event, even though it

and dog-eared menus,

is all on

even the 1 Euro pints of

many are not even willing to invest one day out

their behalf.

These things should definitely be addressed. Every

beer made it a hard sell.

company in our industry should have plenty of business

However, the 5% of bars that

cards and leaflets to hand out to customers, a clean,

had reinvested in signage,

modern and respectable looking shop or vehicle (if you

cleaning, a lick of paint and

are mobile), the tools required to professionally carry out

some seat cushions really

the type of work that you offer, and some smart, branded

stood out from the crowd. For

the last three years,

uniforms. Get that website sorted, and make sure it pops up at the top of a Google search, and make the time to renew

had put all my reinvestment

your skills and familiarise yourself with the latest products.

time and money into

This yeart VEP lnstaller in June is a good place to start.

ifitstuff.com

- until

few months ago when I realised that although Sussex lnsta llation Team Ltd is no longer my No

business to

lf you are not willing to do these things, then you are

either too busy making lots of money anyway (fair play, carry on doing what works for you) or you might be

develop, it is still pretty solid and has done me proud for

heading in a bad direction with your business. But if you

are willing to invest, and be part of a strong network

1 years. I

do the best work for customers where quality

and service is as important (or more important) than

independents all pulling together, ifitstuff.com wants you.

price, yet I was in a van with faded six-year-old graphics,

Email us al ad min@ifitstuff.com.

VEP magazine

lApril 201a

he Geneva Motor Show was first held back in 1 905, and this year's event

For some, however, the Renault Kwid

at the Palexpo venue was the 84th

edition. Taking place from March 6-16, lt was not only the latest exotic supercars causing

iPhone in the car with minimum distractionl'

were said to produce zero emissions, while the driver is positioned between the two rear

concept car was a bigger draw. lt actually has

passenger seats for better vision. Nissan said

its own flying'quadrocopter'drone, which

this seating distribution evens out tyre wear.

emerges from the

rool and can then monitor

Swiss technology company Rinspeed,

stir, but what was inside them, with technology

traffic, be used to look for parking spaces,

meanwhile, had its own take on a driverless

also taking centre-stage. Apple, for example,

and render 3D images of the landscape

vehicle on display, with a reconfigured interior

saw the occasion as a chance to debut CarPlay

on a display. The device can be controlled

inside a four-seater saloon as part of its

via a dashboard tablet, or using fixed GPS

Xchange concept. The seats could swivel,

waypoi nts.

and slide into 20 different positions, meaning

its renamed iOS in the Car, essentially an

interface for the iPhone

- which could

That might be the kind of feature to be

tilt

Ferrari models. "iPhone users always want their

expected of Nissan's BladeGlider concept, but

that passengers could face each other or lie down, and make use ofthe various LCD screens

content at their fingertips,,'Apple told the

this electrically-powered vehicle stood out for

for entertainment or web-surfing purposes.

gathered press. "CarPlay lets drivers use their

different reasons. First of all, its twin motors

As the steering wheel

seen in the newest Mercedes-Benz, Volvo and

Vre magazine I April 2O1a

would not be used all of

the time, it could be moved into the centre of the dash to create more room. "Travelling in a

analyses and improves the audio quality of

windscreen. The entire system

compressed, digitised music sources, drawing

by voice, with apps available for download to

controllable

driverless car will no longer require me to stare at

on the company's experience with signal

customise the experience, complemented by

the road, but will let me spend my time in a more

processing and music recording. No specific car

Harman Kardon audio products.

meaningful wayi'Rinspeed's founder and

manufacturers had incorporated the technology

CEO,

Rolls-Royce was looking to assist drivers

Frank Rinderknecht, told the BBC, adding that he

did not think autonomous cars would mean the end of driving. "Most driving is boring, but if I go

vehicles featuring it could be on the road by the

models, which were fitted with satellite-aided

end of the year.

transmission. "lt allows the car to use the

over an Alpine pass, then I want to do it."

yet, but the brand was hopeful that some

It did have a collaborator for its new head-up

in a slightly different way with its new Ghost

navigation system and

GPS

information to predict

display, however, with the device on show in the

the future - to see around the corner," said Rolls-

using one yet? Perhaps a more realistic

Mini F56. Designed to improve both navigation and entertainment, the unit is powered by a

the perfect gear for the upcoming roadl'

offering is Harman's Clari-Fi.This is a nery proprietary software solution that automatically

drive, with maps or movies projected onto the

But while these vehicles seem impressive,

could you really see yourself buying and

1.3 GHz processor and features a 200GB hard

Royce's Robert Kilty.

"lt means the car

is always in

It sounds similar to the latest version of Mercedes'lntelligent Drive, in terms of adjusting

VEP magazine I April

20r+

Coupe has this feature, which uses a stereo

with a top speed of 99mph, which means not too much compromise on performance either.

camera to assess any unevenness and adjust

The brand's Golf GTE also impressed

the suspension accordingly. With its active

hybrid with the looks and performance of the

the car to deal with the terrain. The new S-Class

a plug-in

curve tilting function, it will also beef up the air

popular GTi.

suspension on the opposite side that the car

On the luxury supercar front, all eyes were on the Lamborghini Huracan, which is the brand's new entry-level model (around f.190,000), complete with angular styling, digital dashboard and 601 bhp. Not to be outdone by

turning towards when it is on a bend, helping it to corner more effectively. Electric cars and those taking the

environment seriously were also present. VW showed the XL1, which it claims

fuel-efficient vehicle ever, with a diesel engine that can cover over 300 miles on just one gallon

the ltalians, British company McLaren unveiled a new model too, with the 650S featuring plenty of carbon-fibre bodywork, plus an

of petrol. lt will also reach 0-60 in 11.9 seconds,

output of 641 bhp.

@ vfe magazine lApril

2014

the most

But even these two had competitrcn in the form of the Koenigsegg One:1. Referred

to as both a hypercar and a megawatt car on account of the vehicle's '1,000 kW power output, which converts to I,341 bhp - not only did the One:1 score highly rvith its potential performance, but its aggressive styling was never short of attention either. Bugatti also reported a good show, selling all three of its planned Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Rembrandt Iimited edition models during the first weekend at a cost of over US$2 million each.

COVER FEATURE WorkinE with fleets

& ffiee&&rxg WKempse

Approaching fleet managers could lead to big business, with vehicles of all kinds potentially needing your help. But what exactly should you offer?

Nfi

I U I

::Ij:::lff IJ:ilHIiliI:, atready. Landing a job tor a company

favour security products

locks, CCTV cameras,

alarms, and so on. Efficiency will also be a concern,

ensuring fuel costs are kept low, communications

with multiple vehicles

are at a maximum, and that the driver spends

lorries, vans,

the least amount of time on each job

- which could include cars, or a mixture - can be a solid

speed

batch ofguaranteed work, seeing you through

limiters, cruise control, Bluetooth kits, navigation

a particular length of time rather than waiting

system, tracking and fleet management software

for the next customer to come through the door.

etc. Certain products could help bring other

These companies hopefully understand the

advantages, such as certain in-vehicle cameras or

importance of a job well done, with whatever

tracking devices lowering insurance premiums,

equipment you are helping add to their fleet,

and any savings reflecting in the price that

and the standards to which it

fitted, up to the

standards they hope to project themselves. Building a relationship with

fleet manager

could lead to more work over time,

as new

company gives to their customers. That is not to say there are no disadvantages. There are stories of installers who have completed

fleetjobs, only to have their invoices buried in a of protocols and paperwork, delaying their

products emerge, or when updates are required.

sea

Think about the needs of that fleet manager and

payment, so perhaps it is sensible to negotiate

you can start to relate them to certain equipment.

part ofthe money and terms in advance.

lf it is a company transporting goods, they may

But the good news is that the fleet market is

Vre magazine lApril 2014

Building a relationship with a fleet manager could lead to more work over time, as new products emerge, or when updates are required growing, so at least there are more potential companies to approach

most of whom will

hopefully not present any issues. Cobra is one of the manufacturers offering suitable products for fleets, and noticing

r'::.1::;,ii:ai:ai:r,

development in the marketplace. "The fleet van

help dealers network and increase their presence

market is particularly important to Cobra

in the fleet market

sales are up

'18.50lo

- van

in 2014 year to date, and this

- the Fleet World

Fleet Show at

Silverstone Circuit on April 9, and the Commercial

market is likely to continue to grow over the

Vehicle Show at Birmingham NEC, held from the

coming months, thus increasing the number of

end of the month untilearly May. Companies such

opportunities arising for the aftermarket dealer

as Parrot and Chameleon

networki'says Cobra UK managing director

show, knowing that certain products and services

will exhibit at the

NEC

Andrew Smith. "The number of small businesses

could be of interest. Here it might be possible

and their vehicle fleets are also growing in the UK,

to approach potential customers directly, make

providing further business opportunitiesl'

contacts, or pick up info on how to target the fleet

There are two trade events this month that could

$ ::

world later on.

The Fleet World Fleet Show in April offers a chan(e to test braking and safety

il::::i:

VEP magazine

lApril 2Ora

CCIVER FEATURE Working with fleets

-l I

fUew prCIducts I

TomTom Bridge

l;:r'.].,i$

The TomTom Bridge is a

tablet device with

a rugged design and a 7 inch touchscreen.

It features lifetime TomTom Maps and TomTom Traffic, with a camera and internet connectivity, but the big plus for fleet managers is the ability to customise the

Events like these help to give an idea of what

fleet managers may currently be looking for.The show at Silverstone, for example, will be offering the latest braking equipment, or

margin potentiall' The company has other new products which may be of benefit. "We've just launched three new warning systems as part of our 1C360 range;'

apps found on it, tailoring them to certain needs.This can relate to branding, or simply

a chance to test

optimising the features to cater to the type of business. Full details are yet to be

showing how safety and efficiency remain

Kent adds. "Firstly, we have a'vehicle turning left'alarm, predominantly for protecting and

revealed, but TomTom has said that it could

constant concerns. "We've also experienced a high level ofenquiries from CVfleet operators

warning against cyclists, which incorporates a standard reversing alarm as well.Then we

be available in late April, with taxi companies,

about our high-spec and easy-to-fit vehicle

have a handbrake warning system. As you can

rentalfirms and logistics companies in mind'

alarms," continues Cobra's Andrew Smith. "Many fleets often specifo basic vans without alarms

imagine, this warns the driver when the vehiclet door is opened and the handbrake has not been

/ww.to mto m,co

/ bri

test-drive electric vehicles from Tesla - perhaps

as standard, and

Silent Witness brand

then work with

to upgrade

applied

one of our clients now has them after

offthe Cross Channel ferry! Lastly,

their fleet security. A typical recent enquiry was from a utilities sector fleet operator to fit alarms

a HGV rolled

to its 3oo-strong fleet of vans, which shows the

can be set up to do anything, within reason, and is programmed by us before shipping the unit to

demand

is out there."

we have a

100o/o

programmable alarm, which

And that could mean 300 or so vehicles in need ofother products' "ln the second halfof

the customer."

201 3, we saw our sales of speed limiters increase by 122o/o, mainly for fitment to vans, but some

with more on the way that present other

enlightened operators are fitting limiters to

system provides a cost-effective solution

their cars

welli'5mith

reveals. "We find

the number one fleet priority

that

to reduce fuel

costs, which is where speed limiters are proving

very useful. Also, the majority of companies

There is great potential in these products, advantages. "Our CobraTrak Plus GPS tracking

with the option to upgrade to web tracking," says Cobra's Andrew Smith."We're looking at

offering more telematics-based solutions to help companies manage their vehicles and control

allow employees to use a mobile phone in their company vehicle as long as it is handsfree. Many

costs more effectively, as well as more'pay how

This is a new name intended to cater to

fleets are now retro-fitting Bluetooth kits to their

fleets lower their insurance costs by monitoring

the needs of the business fleet manager,

vans to ensure drivers remain contactable, but adhere to the laws of the road."

driver behaviour, but also reduce fuel and

While some of these items may seem obvious, other companies are discovering fleet business

their most conscious emPloYeesJ' There is no denying that the fleet market

through more unusual equipment."We have a new product called Smart Brake, which

has a lot of potential, with the key to finding

replicates the flashing brake lights found in

look for a suitable company, assess the age of the vehicles used and suggest a package of

launched by a company that will be a little more familiar. Parksafe Automotive has recognised the growing demands of the fleet market, creating the Silent Witness line of in-vehicle cameras and CCTV products as a separate,

dedicated entity. There are

a number of systems on offer, each

with

three-year warranty, protecting against 'cash for crash'schemes, improving driver a

behaviour, keeping an accurate log ofthe

driving history, and increasing safety with views of blind spots. www,si

ntwit

ness.co.

many new vehiclesi'reveals Kent Stabler, sales and purchasing manager at Chameleon. "How it works

when braking for two seconds or more,

the brake lights will pulse for three seconds. We advise this to be fitted to the high level brake light only. and when continuously using the brake in traf6c, it has been designed to stop pulsing. lt's a simple-fit, low-cost item, with good

vfe magazine lApril

2014

you drive'technology that can help commercial

maintenance. Companies could even reward

it initiating

a business

relationship' Perhaps

upgrades, highlighting the benefits.There is a

growing range of products designed to address safety, security and vehicle management - both obvious and unusual, but each presenting advantages. lfyou can be successful in this market, you may even need your own fleet to keep up with demand.

{{3\r$e trX&?{i&*

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Ssangyong Korando installer guide The 2014 Ssangyong Korando offers rich pickings, with sensor-less, entry-level models and an entire range devoid of a decent screen. Martyn Williams reports the brand paying close attention to the SUV market, with the first version of the Korando (a n EnSlish, Ssangyong translates from

! I ! I

Korean to mean'two dragons: lt is a

refined to drive as the othertwo, according to some reviewers. (ln Macedonia where the

means that customers buy this trim level and

frequently have them fitted with aftermarket items

Korando was once named SUV of the Year, clearly

that

not a problem.)

contraction of 'Korea Can Do') built in the 1980s.

we spoke to had developed

latest model, however, will mean a chance for dealers of getting a job or two, be it parking sensors or an upgrade of the integrated non-DAB CD-tuner. The car is pitched as a rival to the Hyundai ix35 and Kia Sportage, and has a slightly longer wheelbase with extra rear loading space. However, as it sells for around the same price, model for model, it is not as well fi nished or The comparative lack of equipment on the

The opportunities

with

The Korando range has four models

- the SE, SE4

(four-wheel-drive), ELX4 and ELX4A (four-wheeldrive auto). Common to the whole line-up is a

itt

There are some in-car entertainment options

fairly basic integrated CD-tuner, but it does

DAB- and MP3-equipped CD-tuner

sockets) and Bluetooth connectivity.

touchscreen satnav, with DAB, MP3, CD/DVD, iPod

Rear sensors are an

option on the

and 5E4 but

dealers say that the price point on these models

a steering

is listed at

control interfaces maintain the original features of the vehicle, such

(CTSSYOO3.2). Both steering

as date,

an extra f999 fitted-

wheel

time and temperature

display.They will also need the appropriate head unit connection lead.

{

The newfascia panel

retains the non-audio switches previously fitted to the integrated head unit panel

Just add the individual head

unit harness to complete the setup.The steering wheel control interface shown

is available

for cars with phone buttons

A massive improvement on the original layout, and the customer will probably get the benefit of touchscreen navigation and more

(CTSSY002.2) and

(crssYoo3.2)

without

f460, and a Kenwood

and Bluetooth connectivity, is in the price list for

wheel control interface, and Connects2 supplies

with phone buttons (CTSSY002.2) and without

Vre magazine lApril 2014

with iPod

connectivity

designed for the fitment of a double DIN AV unit, the CT23SY12 kit ls supplied with the appropriate

for

him, including the fitment of higher qualiry sensors.

fitting kits and interfaces for the Korando. Starting with the all-important fascia replacement panel mounting hardware. The head unit will need

working relationship

have the sophistication of iPod (USB and 3.5mm

Connects2 that appears to be the only company to supply aftermarket head unit

a unit for Ssangyongs

a mobile installer who does all this work

listed for all four variants. For example, a Kenwood

lnstallation kits Unsurprisingly,

(the standard fitting only has three sensort and lots of customers have tow bars installed). One dealer

Dealer comment

"Bumper removal

Redditch-based mobile installer Lee Williams of LW

Auto Electronics has worked on Ssangyong

is easy,

apart from pulling

the sides away from the clips.These are very

tight, but also need a lot of care in order not to

vehicles on a regular basis, fitting aftermarket

break the locating areas on the bumper. These

head units, tow bars and rear sensors to the

are pre-marked behind, but unfortunately they

Korando. Commenting on rear sensor installs,

are marked for three sensors when a four-

he says:

often fit the small Laserline OE-style

sensor kit is better, particularly with

tow bar.

tow bar with plug-in wiring,

sensors, which unlike the larger sensors deslgned

Ssangyong market

for externalfitting require removal of the bumper

and this is a quality product made byWitter.

for attachment to the inside. One of the things

which I have found important with the fitting of these

to use solvents to remove wax treatment

and overspray, and

itt

also important to warm up

"Wiring up the rear sensors requires removal

ofthe rear quarter panel on the passenger side to get at the harness. When fitting external plug-in sensors, the plastic under-panel to

the area to achieve maximum adhesion (tricky in

the bumper

the winter!).

removed."

the only thing that has to be

I VEP magazine

I April2ola

INSTALL GUIDE Cruise control

HoWto fito.. Lite-On cruise control Tim Kent of Laserline shows us howto install one of the cruise control kits distributed by the company, with a Iittle help from one of his dealers itting cruise control to

a vehicle does

to be complicated.This can be

not have

common

misconception among dealers, meaning

they miss out on potential revenue, but the truth is

that modern aftermarket cruise control kits have

The company can supplybld style'cable-type kits

too, should these be needed, but it

the modern,

CM7 flat pad type, or the CM22 RF steering wheel type. Vehicle-specific throttle pedal wiring looms

much simpler variety that Tim wanted to show

are stocked by us, and if required the latest software

us, each made by the Lite-On brand."We have

CanMS Can-Bus adaptors and connection points

the AP900 cruise-S1900 speed limiter analogue

are available."

evolved in-line with the cars they are designed to

model, the AP900C cruise-SL900C speed limiter

work with. "The majority of vehicles now are'drive

Can-Bus model, and the new AP900Ci-1 cloud/

only too happy to fit the new AP900CF1 kit to his 2010 VW Caddy work van, with a CM35 left-

Scott Bradley of BAS Bradley Auto Services was

by wirei meaning that the throttle pedal controls

web-programmed cruise model;"Tim

a potentiometer," explains Tim Kent, managing

also offer a full up-to-date application list to all

hand stalk command module and a plug-in 2450

director of Laserline

dealers, or they can phone the Laserline sales office

throttle pedal loom. Laserline provides vehicle-

for advice and to order vehicle-specific individual

specific technical information in every box, with

management

ECU

S.p.A. Ltd."This tells the

engine

the position of the pedal. Laserline

reveals. "We

offers three different cruise control kits compatible

kits.There are three different types of command

instructions and also technical support via the

with this set-up, and also two speed limiter kits."

module too - the CM35 left- or right-hand stalk, the

website, email or phone.

Step by step

The cowling around the steering column was removed, with a hole drilled to fit the command module stalk.The terminals pass through, with the ribbon cable run to the ECU.

Pin the stalkwiring colourfor colour into the white connector the wire colours are all marked on the plug.

Remove the under-dash trim to access the ignition, Can-High and Can-Low wires, plug the vehicle-specific wiring loom into the pedal potentiometer and the original

Now to identify the Can wires

- Can-High orange-black,

Can-Low

orange-brown - from the wiring loom to the light switch.

plug into the female end ofthe supplied - effectively a bypass cableto control the throttle once cruise is engaged. cable

Here is the main ECU with the wiring loom made up - only Can-High blue, Can-Low blue-white and orange for the ignition supply are needed.This ECU was pre-programmed via the web to specifically work wilh the 20l 0VW Caddy.

Vre magazine I April 2O1a

Now to make the Can-High, Can-Low and ignition connections.

It the rcu

perform the manual accelerator pedal

replaced. From the stalk each ofthe various functions can be controlled. A

lnstructions are provided to unlock the web-programmed software, follow the simple safety procedures and set-up.

is mounted behind the

drivert side panel, and all trim

road test at low speed can be carried

out to confirm that all is working okay.

t::

Richard Taylor of Dabonwheels.co.uk says that if you aren't actively selling digital radio, now is the time to face your fears ::,i:

::rr ere is a shocking statistic:

judging by trade

can contribute to business fatality. So how to shrug off this malaise? Well, first of all, you

,,i1.:,:,1": sales, as few as 5olo of independent dealers are

..ili

:,i, making the most of in-car DAB (Digital Audio

Broadcasting). Why might this be? Simple: those in the

if there are half-a-million people in your catchment

95% that are failing to make hay while the DAB sun

area, that's an estimated f

shines are either so busy and profitable that they don't

DAB business

have time for it (in which case, they probably should

20-million-worth of in-car to be had over the next five-1 0 years, and if you act now 5070 or more of that business can be

take on more staff) or they have'DABphobiai

yo u rs.

DABphobia

that

sa I es@ d a b o

almost exclusively confined to those whose best

established under the in-car DAB table and your local market sewn up long before the retail giants move in (which they will once FM switch-off commences), it

announced, coverage is improved and prices come

will be too late. Also, any dealer who sells a head unit that does not have DAB (or at least is not upgradeable) without urging the customer to buy one is doing

down... AIso, someone needs to come up with

the customer (and, reputation-wise, themselves) an

tendency to think or utter the likes of:"Well, in-car

will not take off until the FM switch-off date

discreet aerial that works, and a hidden system that can be

h ee I s.co. u

And here's a stick: Unless you have your feet firmly

very unusual, self-inflicted condition

of digital radio. These sufferers are easily identified by DAB

Email him at

is a

interests would be served by the hearty promotion a

Richard Taylor has been in retail and trade car radio sales and marketing since 1974.

must desperately want to shrug it off, so here's a carrot:

enormous disservice. Now, think about those products that have sold well

fitted in five minutes... While you're at it, we need

better content and DAB+ needs to be introduced, like

for you in the past. They are products you've been

they have in EuropeJ'

enthusiastic about, right? So all you need to sell DAB

But the affliction does not end there. This opinion of DAB

that has developed displays its symptoms within

enthusiasm for DAB, neither will your customer. How to generate enthusiasm? Just sell it to yourself

the sales technique

Now, think about those products that have sold well for you in the past. They are products you've been

enthusiastic about, right? So all you need to sell DAB is enthusiasm. And that comes from within: if you have no enthusiasm for DAB, neither will your customer

itsell with the sufferer offering reasons as to

first

why they cannot sell

- fit a good

on both FM and DAB, and then switch between the two.

DAB radio and beesting roof aerial

fizz, no treble cut, no multipath noises! And DAB is even

all well in-car; sound

more impressive on the move.

quality is poor; it

assure you there is a difference

it does not work at

DAB has no hiss, no

Now sample the stations that are only available on

that listening to the same old thing,

already out of date

DAB, and realise

and will soon be

time after time, on an iPod or the like, is pass6; it's time

overtaken by internet

for your customers to start Iistening to something new

radio; the customers

and fresh. Now get up and enthusiastically demonstrate in-car

don't want another

with:your

aerial on their car;

DAB to everyone you come in contact

no-one listens to radio

colleagues, your family, every visitor to your business,

itt

all about the iPod; it's

the postman, and the sales will come. Furthermore, your enthusiasm will easily overcome any reservations

too expensive."

the customer may have.

anymore because

The more enthusiasm you have, the more you will sell.

the sufferer

And the more you sell, the greater your enthusiasm.

delusional. lf the above obstacles are real, how

come some dealers are selling digital radio furiously?

It's an upward spiral. DABphobia

DABphobia

business and profits will be maximised! ,:

one ofyour vehicles, tune into a station that broadcasts

it:"No-one asks for it;

Yes, is

enthusiasm. And that comes from within: if you have no

dangerous, and it's a downward spiral. At

best, it will result in profit thrown away, but at worst

will be banished, and

it VEP magazine

lApril z0r+

EXTRAS

Toolbox The best new accessories for your workshop

PIease

release me

Roller disco Tools or without tools

- those

are the choices

faced when buying one of the new rollcab

units from Sealey, but

just been released by Clarke, suitable for blasting muck off vehicles, or maybe giving

promotion, both will

the workshop floor a quick spruce. Both have

either option is in

just launched two new sets of

radio release keys.There is a pocket version (CT22UV05),

which has 36 different foldaway

keys, suitable for a wide variety of OE head units, as well as popular aftermarket models,

or there is a 52-piece

be a bargain.

high pressure hoses,

Available in

adjustable spray

orange, blue,

nozzles and wheel

red, black or

mounting, but the

grey, these tool

9000 is slightly more

chest combos

powerful, with

have 14 drawers

larger tank. Prices

in total and

are

come on ball

including

bearing runners.

Machine Mart

Price is f499

0844 880

without tools, f I,1 99 with,

1250, www.

until May 31.

tool set (CT22UV06),

Sealey

including some older devices.

7575O0,

Connects2 0845 257 5588, www.connects2.com

sealey.co.uk

day r

STP on

f168 and1192, VAT.

machinemart. co.uk

284

which covers all of these bases and more,

For a rainy

The Jet 8000 and 9000 pressure washers have

the companyt spring

Connects2 has

Under pressure

www

The big read

Known for its range of engine care products, STP has

just launched the all-encompassing MPMT

(Multi-Purpose Motor Treatment). Suitable for

Armor All has a new water

diesel and

repellent product

petrol engines,

designed to boost

it combines fuel

visibility in the rain.

and lubricant

Shield for Glass

additives with

applies quickly to

anti-corrosion

the windscreen

agents and

using a cloth to

moisture

form a durable,

repellents.

non-stick, smear-

This could

free protective

help reduce

Those in need of high-performance parts

barrier, said to

emissions,

and accessories will be pleased to know that

make rain, sleet

aid cleaning

supplier Demon Tweeks

or snow bead

and maintain

biggest-ever catalogue, featuring 508 pages.

efficiency. A

With Performance and Motorcycle editions also

instantly. A 200m1

bottle costs f6.99, and while not

substitute

500m1

bottle

has

just released its

available, the Motorsport catalogue shown

for windscreen wipers can still be a help to

costs f9.99.

features clothing and equipment for every

drivers.

www.stp.eu

budget. Order yours free online.

www.armorall,eu

Demon Tweeks 09062 501527,

www.demon-tweeks.co.uk

vrn magazine lApril 20la

AVS Ltd o870 240 2554 www.avs-ltd.co.u k

Acutrac 01264 310007 www.acutrac,co.u k

Alpine Electronics 084s 313 1650 www.a lpine.co.u k

Antennensysteme

Chameleon Group 01

www.thecha meleongrou p.co.u

Clarion 01

793 859560

www.cla rion.com/g b

0208 450 3282

Cobra UK 01932772400 www.cobravehiclesecurity.co.u k

Kenwood

0208 404 7105

Scorpion

Connects2

07943 221321

pete.laserline6yahoo.com

01257 249928 www.scorpiona uto.com

Laserline SPA Limited

Steelmate Automotive

01925 851164 www.laserlinespa.com

www,steel-mate.co.u k

MESF

Synergy Automotive

0845 257 5588 www.con nects2.com

02085157820 www.dal-tec,com

0116 275 2020

Dashmount

Daltec

01883 741460

Autosound

www.dash mou nt.co.u k

01274 688990 www.a utosou nd.co.u k

Drive Audio

01282779000

www.bhp-uk.net

c-Ko 0208 863 8333

0333 456 0236 www.d rivea ud io.co.u k

0845 450 1594

CEL Trade 0116 244 9846

www.g 7d irect.co.u k

wwwceltrade.com

Garmin

CanM8

0870 8s0 1242

0845 226 6283

www.garm in.com/en-GB

Grom Audio 01530 888533

0208 s69 1 543 wwwcara udiosecurity,com

www.gromaudio.co.u

01489 889966

01254 694537 sa les6ca rcom m u nications.co.u k

www.g

www.ttints.co.uk

Midbass Distribution

TTW Group

21 3i 1 9090

01159503852 www.ttwpa rtnerslim ited.co.u k

Motormax

www. nem

Distribution

infoPproplusaudio.com k

es is- ice.co m

iGrip 0208 144 7413 www.igrip.eu

ln-Car PC

www.caska.co.uk

Celsus UK Ltd

In-Car Technologies

01202 664390 www,celsusice.co.u k

www.incartec.co.u k

01392829435

PPA

es isg b.co m

0207 993 8889

01454 417412 wwwin-ca rpc.co.u k

01582817142

582 51 1 703

0121 311 9011

www.media-in-motion.co.uk

Nemesis

Hi-Spec Ltd

Car Communications

Caska

TTints

0870777 5530

Car Audio Security

0333 700 71 10 www.d rivea ud io.co.u k

Media in Motion

www.motormax.co.u k

01635 47656

www.canmS.com

Vision

01865 366434 www.a ud iotec-fischer.co.u k

0121 353 3663

G7 Direct

e n

01376 561040

www.midbass.com

www.fou rmastersca raud io.co.u k

01582 475677

www.mesf.org.uk

Four Masters

www.c-ko.co.uk

Car

electronics.co.u k

Laserline Automotive Ltd

Automonitor

BHP UK

01923 816444 www.kenwood-

www.commelec.co.u k

01483 722531 www.a ud iovoxincaa rsystems.com

www.automon itor.co.u k

ip it ra d e.co m

wwwjvc.co.uk

Commercial Electronics

Audiovox

01159758600 JVC

07983 353927

01420 487110 u,'ww.armou rauto.com

www.

www.anten nensysteme.de

Armour Automotive

ln-Phase

lnternational

206 500848

Panorama Antennas 0208 877 4444 www.pa nora ma-a nten nas.com

Parksafe Automotive

Tech Distribution

01773 746591 www.pa rksafea utomotive.co.u k

01274 201414 www.park-control.co.u k

Parrot

TomTom

0844 472 2360 www.pa rrot.com/u k

www.tomtom.com

Pioneer

Tracker

0208 836 3500 www.pioneer.co.u k

084s 604 6004 www.tracker.co.u k

Radio World

Trackstar

01132 578932

www.rw-on line.co.u k

0845 604 5433 www.tracksta r.co.u k

Ring Automotive

Vestatec

0113 213 7379

www.ringautomotive.com

0208 867 2340 www.vestatec.co.u k

Sailes Marketing

XCarLink

386 55421 0

www.sailesmarketing.com

0845 045 0353

0203 393 4308 www.xca rlin k.co.u k

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