Backup cameras are expected to continue their ascent, growing by 40 to 50 percent in unit sales this year, according to three suppliers.
Sales should accelerate even more rapidly in a few years, as a law is expected to go into effect around 2014 mandating that back up cameras be included in new all new cars.
iSuppli adjusted its estimates favorably for the category since last year. It now expects aftermarket backup camera sales should rise from approximately 260,000 units in 2011 to 880,000 units in 2015. On the OEM side, back up sales should multiply from 1.4 million units in 2011 to 16.4 million in 2015
In recent months, several new suppliers have entered the category including Metra, Escort and Scytek.
Metra is shipping a Third Eye budget line of back up cameras and will add an OE Direct Fit line of cameras customized for various car makes to ship in late Spring. The cameras range in price from $59 to $79.
Scytek is entering the market with 5 universal back up cameras it showed at CES last month. The line starts below $50 and includes bullet type cameras with 170 angle viewing, distance grids, extreme low light sensitivity and waterproof cases.
Escort recently announced a new Smart Site mirror and back up camera system.
Boyo which has a market share it estimates at about 40 percent in backup cameras, introduced its first commercial HD camera, offering a superior quality picture at CES in January. It mounts on the license plate holder. Called the model VTL375HD it is shipping now at $259 suggested retail price.
Source: CEoutlook
