(January 7, 2012) LAS VEGAS — Audiovox Electronics Corporation announced today that it has entered a new product category introducing its first automotive wireless charging cradle with embedded Qi (pronounced Chi) technology. The new automotive wireless charging cradle delivers more freedom of positioning a Qi equipped smartphone in the cradle to maximize charge to the device and retain typical "wired charging" rates.

"Automotive wireless charging products builds upon our business plan and is a logical extension of the high-performance connectivity products we are already producing for in car use," said Tom Malone, president of Audiovox. 

"Qi technology is rapidly growing in adoption by the phone makers and we believe this category will drive growth in our automotive solutions over the next five-six years."

The automotive wireless charging Qi cradle features a stylish and ruggedized design that comes in four colors to allow for in-vehicle personalization.

The universal design features quick release locking arms that will hold most smartphones. The Qi cradle is designed with optimized heat dissipation, capacitive sensing to activate charging and an LED indicator which highlights charging status. The cradle includes a slim design, automotive 12-volt adapter.  There are two mounting options — a suction cup mount and a cup holder mount to accommodate the consumers' preference and address some state regulations regarding mounting locations. 

The target MSRP for the Qi Cradle is under $70 plus the selected mounting system, and will be available this summer.

Malone said, "Our entry into this new category is a poignant example of our commitment to supporting the changing landscape of mobile electronics with advanced technology products that consumers want and need in their mobile lifestyle."