About DIRECTED
We make life more secure, comfortable and fun in and around your vehicle. Formerly known as the parent-company to brands such as VIPER, AVITAL, PYTHON, CLIFFORD, and more, DIRECTED is now a brand under VOXX's portfolio of remote start, security, and telematics products.
Early Days
DIRECTED Electronics was founded in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1982 by Darrell Issa (now a U.S. Congressman representing California's 49th District) and his wife Kathy, as a maker of vehicle security products. In 1986, DIRECTED Electronics moved to Southern California, where the business began to expand rapidly. Automobile theft was rising dramatically, especially in major metropolitan areas, and DIRECTED's commitment to research and development led to advances in integrated circuit-controlled security systems that propelled the company to the forefront of the field. The VIPER® and Python® brands were introduced, and sales more than doubled between 1989 and 1990, leading to DIRECTED's inclusion in the Inc. 500 the following year.
The 1990's
During the 1990s, DIRECTED's sales grew substantially as the company won dozens of awards, developed the first PC-programmable security systems, achieved quarter-mile range from keychain remote controls and entered the burgeoning car audio business. In the year 2000, DIRECTED purchased the Clifford® and Avital® brands and became the unrivalled leader in consumer branded vehicle security and remote start, which continues to this day.
A New Millenium
At the end of 2000, Darrell and Kathy Issa sold controlling interest in the company to Trivest, Inc., a private equity firm based in Miami, Florida, and stepped down from day-to-day operation of the company. In January 2001, Jim Minarik, formerly President and CEO of Clarion Corporation of America, took the helm as President and CEO of DIRECTED Electronics. Later that year, the company acquired the well-known Orion® Car Audio brand.
In 2004, DIRECTED acquired Definitive Technology®. The company went public in 2005 and in 2006, acquired Polk Audio®. At about the same time, the company also made a series of strategic acquisitions in Canada, including Astroflex®, Autostart®, DIRECTED Canada and XPRESSKIT®. Reacting to these changes, DIRECTED adopted a holding company structure in 2008, renaming the parent company DEI Holdings, Inc.
In 2011, DEI Holdings, Inc. was acquired by Charlesbank Capital Partners.
Pioneer of the Connected Car
DIRECTED created the connected car category with the launch of VIPER SMARTSTART in 2009 – the app that lets you start, locate and control your car from virtually anywhere in the world with your smartphone.
Today, VIPER SMARTSTART gives consumers something they have dreamed of for years — ultimate control of their vehicle. From checking the status of their vehicle, to sharing the vehicle’s location on Facebook, DIRECTED provides security and control for vehicles that is cutting edge and in tune with the other aspects of new and integral technology in our lives.
About VOXX by Gentex Corporation
Since 1965, VOXX (previously a wholly-owned subsidiary of VOXX International, now a GENTEX Corporation company), has been at the forefront of automotive and consumer electronics, transforming the way people experience sound, security, and entertainment. What started with a simple shipment of car radios has evolved into a global leader in premium audio and cutting-edge vehicle technology. With a relentless drive for innovation, VOXX has pioneered advancements in mobile electronics, vehicle security, and in-car entertainment—enhancing life on the road and at home. Today, nearly 60 years later, we continue to push boundaries, delivering trusted solutions that define the future of automotive and consumer experiences.
1965 – 1990s
Pioneering Car
Electronics
1965
John J. Shalam founds AUDIOVOX with a shipment of car radios, laying the foundation for a revolutionary car electronics brand.
1981
Expands into vehicle security, providing solutions to protect drivers and their cars.
1986 – 1987
Enters the cellular mobile market, capturing 20% market share and becoming a publicly traded company.
1991
Creates dedicated marketing divisions for wireless and electronics, positioning VOXX for long-term expansion.
1997 – 2010s
Redefining In-Car
Entertainment & Security
1997
Further expands into electronics with new wireless divisions and product lines.
2000
Strengthens security and telematics with the acquisition of CODE ALARM.
2004 – 2005
Sells other businesses to focus on electronics, acquiring Jensen and Terk Technologies.
2007 – 2010
Grows through acquisitions of RCA and INVISION.
2011-Present
Global Growth & Premium Audio
2011
Rebrands AUDIOVOX as VOXX International, reflecting its global presence and innovation. Acquires Klipsch Group, adding the #1 premium loudspeaker brand to its portfolio.
2012 - 2020
Expands automotive capabilities with acquisitions like Hirschmann, Rostra, and DIRECTED, leading in vehicle safety, security, and remote start solutions.
Recent Years
Acquires Onkyo Home Video, partners and Pioneer Corporation. VOXX launches LEATHER CRAFT, bringing luxury automotive upholstery into its lineup.
The Road Ahead
In April of 2025, VOXX was acquired by the GENTEX Corporation. As we look to the future, VOXX remains committed to driving innovation and exceeding customer expectations. With a diverse portfolio of industry-leading brands, strategic partnerships, and groundbreaking technology, we are shaping the next generation of automotive and consumer electronics. From smart vehicle solutions to high-performance audio, we continue to invest in new ideas, new markets, and new ways to enhance everyday life. With a passionate team and a legacy of excellence, VOXX is ready for the road ahead—wherever it leads.