The Madison Heights, Mich. manufacturer of vehicle electronic systems said the agreement makes Ford the first automaker to allow PowerCode Technology the opportunity to be part of a vehicle option package, and will allow Ford to acquire a minority stake in Code-Alarm over a five-year period through an equity incentive program.

Code-Alarm will work with Ford Motor Company to introduce PowerCode Technology, a revolutionary package of comfort, convenience and security options, to the Dearborn, Mich.-based original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and its stable of brands. PowerCode offers remote start, keyless entry, complete security, and other features, to be defined by Ford brand management in concert with Code-Alarm, in a system that can be customized to help differentiate Ford Motor Company models and platforms.

"Consumer interest in the comfort, convenience, and security category has never been higher — and automakers know that," states Peter Stouffer, president and CEO of Code-Alarm. "We are pleased to work with Ford to deliver the technology that allows drivers to personalize their vehicles with today's most popular comfort, convenience and security options. More purchasing decisions are being made based on vehicle electronics and interiors, and that makes PowerCode Technology an appealing part of any option package."

Ford's Janine Bay states: "Code-Alarm is committed to developing new and innovative products. We are pleased that this agreement will allow Ford customers the option to choose safety and convenience features. It also allows the Ford to be first to market with a product that will surprise and delight our customers." Bay is the managing director of global vehicle personalization in the automotive consumer services group of Ford Motor Company.

PowerCode's 'plug and play' technology brings comfort, convenience and security to vehicle owners. It offers a main controller module, which runs interchangeable software cartridges that allow drivers to start their vehicles from the comfort of their home or office, open sliding minivan doors when they're struggling with an armload of groceries or defrost their rear window - all with the touch of a key fob. Code-Alarm's initial menu of options for PowerCode includes more than 100 comfort, convenience and security features that can be combined to customize the vehicle to the driver's specifications.

Code-Alarm engineers have developed a proprietary software language that allows the Company to bring new feature sets to market in less than half the time of traditional products. PowerCode Technology's software-based format makes upgrading convenient and cost effective through Ford's dealer network. Once the main controller module is installed in the vehicle, consumers can add features by purchasing additional software cartridges.

"PowerCode Technology represents an ongoing sales opportunity," offers Michael Schroeder, vice president OEM and business development for Code-Alarm. "Consumers can upgrade quickly and easily at any point during the sale process - or after the sale has been finalized. Drivers will never outgrow PowerCode Technology because new features will continue to be developed and introduced."

Douglas Graham, chairman of Code-Alarm, states: "This agreement demonstrates Ford's initial confidence in our technology and our Company. We appreciate Ford's commitment to our future success, and look forward to a long-term partnership that will be mutually beneficial."

Link for more info: www.code-alarm.com