Cobra Electronics has a new serpent on the road for all you snakes (like us) who need a little extra help to "see" the "man" when they've got a plan to catch your ass for speeding. It's their XRS line of radar detectors and Cobra's calling it the first "user-installable remote radar detector with GPS locator featuring Red Light and Speed Camera Location Database." In English we think it means you'll be able to mount the main detector unit in an out-of-the-way place, like behind the rearview mirror at the top of the windshield. To control the unit, they've provided a remote controller for you to clip onto your sun visor or you know, pocket protector or something. But the coolest part's the last included feature — the red light and speed cam location database. It's based on a fixed list of red light and speed camera traps across the country as well as an allowance for the driver to input up to 1,000 location-based alerts. Unfortunately, it doesn't yet include a feature for automatic updates from the internet or satellite. Still, we'd be sold on one if it merely played "Eastbound & Down" whenever the fuzz-buster went off. Of course, if it doesn't work (Meow), you can always try this. Full press release and a close-up pic of the kit after the jump.
Remote Detector Keeps Drivers Under the Radar
Industry Leader Cobra Electronics Offers First User-Installable Remote Radar Detector With GPS Locator Featuring Red Light and Speed Camera Location Database
LAS VEGAS (January 5, 2007) — Cobra Electronics (NASDAQ: COBR) today announced the launch of the first-to-market, easy-to-install wireless remote controlled radar/laser detector with GPS locator. The product's sleek design makes the new device virtually invisible—helping to deter theft—while Super-Xtreme Range Superheterodyne (S-XRS ) Maximum Performance 12 Band Technology with LaserEye ensures the detection of the fastest radar and laser guns, including POP Mode. The XRS R7 and CES Innovation Award honoree XRS R9G IntelliLink remote detectors provide "under the radar" detection at an "on the radar" price.
"Once again, Cobra Electronics is pioneering detection with our new line of remote products," said Tony Mirabelli, senior vice president, marketing and sales for Cobra Electronics. "Last year we were the first to offer a full-color video display; this year we're the first to offer an easy-to-install radar detector that truly challenges the performance of detectors at higher price points. It's our innovation that allows Cobra to stay ahead in the highly competitive radar detection category."
The XRS R7 and XRS R9G feature a wireless main detector unit and a remote control display unit. The XRS R9G offers the added benefit of a GPS locator—the first of its kind in the United States to be paired with a radar detector. The locator includes a fixed red light and speed camera location database. In addition, the driver can input up to 1,000 location-based alerts.
In order to maintain the unit's discreet appearance, both the GPS locator and the main radar/laser detector unit mount behind the rearview mirror at the top of the windshield. This placement not only reduces the unit's visibility, it also improves its detection range. All of the components are installed inside the vehicle, protecting it from the elements and heat of the engine. The lithium-ion rechargeable batteries allow the pocket-size remote to operate up to 40 hours and include a two-hour quick charge option. The product's sleek IntelliLink 2.4 GHz wireless remote controlled design makes it possible to customize mounting locations as well as easily remove it from the car, further deterring theft.
In addition to the products' new design and enhanced performance, the XRS R7 and XRS R9G offer features Cobra drivers have come to rely on. The full-color Extreme Bright DataGrafix video display offers alert screens such as car battery voltage, signal strength and an eight-point digital compass. Similar to the other XRS detectors, the R7 and R9G provide drivers with IntelliMute , a speed sensing Auto Mute system to prevent false alerts; Voice Alert , which clearly annunciates signals and alerts being detected; SmartPower to automatically shut off the unit when the vehicle's ignition is turned off; and StrobeAlert , which alerts the driver of approaching emergency vehicles.
The XRS R7 user-installable remote radar detector has an MSRP of $349.95. The XRS R9G, including a GPS locator with red light and speed camera database, has an MSRP of $449.95. Cobra's new line of 2007 radar detectors will arrive in major retailers the second quarter of 2007.
Along with its new remote radar detectors and complete line of radar products in a wide range of prices and features, Cobra's 2007 mobile navigation, two-way radio, citizens band and marine products will be on display at this year's CES in Las Vegas, January 8-11 in the Central Hall, booth # 9841, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Additionally, Cobra's radar, mobile navigation and two-way radio products will be on display at CES Unveiled, January 6 in the Sands Expo and Convention Center.
About Cobra Electronics
Cobra Electronics is a leading global manufacturer of communication and navigation products, with a track record of delivering innovative and award-winning products. Building upon its leadership position in the GMRS/FRS two-way radio, radar detector and citizens band industries, Cobra identified new growth opportunities and has aggressively expanded into the mobile navigation and marine markets over the last few years. The Consumer Electronics Association, Forbes and Deloitte & Touche have all recognized Cobra for the company's innovation and industry leadership. To learn more about Cobra Electronics, please visit the Cobra site at www.cobra.com.
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I'd Like To Drive 105: How To Get Out Of A Speeding Ticket [internal]