Alpine 2012 Annual Report Download - page 9

- 8 -
Development of Environmentally Friendly
Products
Alpine takes initiatives to develop compact,
lightweight and efficient sound units that are
in demand for environmentally friendly
vehicles such as hybrid cars and electric
vehicles, while at the same time seeking
optimal sound systems that maintain Alpine’s
characteristic commitment to high-quality
sound.
The “Green premium sound system,” which has been developed with the aim of having a sound
system that is 50% lighter and more efficient, succeeded in developing a speaker that is 60% thinner
and 50% lighter than the current model with a new structure. Since the system is now lighter and
thinner, it can be attached to the ceiling of the car.
Alpine aims to provide new products that bring satisfaction to customers by responding to changes
required for cars, while at the same time endeavoring to achieve cutting-edge sound technology and
seeking to develop optimal in-car sound systems.
V. Global Topics
Receiving Praise from Japanese and Overseas Carmakers After Overcoming 2 Natural Disasters
Alpine, which has its headquarters function in Iwaki City, Fukushima Prefecture, was forced to suspend
operations for two weeks due to damage from the Great East Japan Earthquake. However, we were able to
recover quickly thanks to support from the Alps Group and the local government, as well as the efforts of
our employees. Following the earthquake, damage from the flooding in Thailand in the latter half of the
year had an impact on supply chains, severely impairing parts procurement. Even so, we were able to carry
out product deliveries with no major impact on the production plans of our customers as a result of our
concerted, group-wide efforts. This achievement earned us praise from our customers and a commendation
from Daimler AG.
Alpine also received the Supplier Award from Honda Motor Co., Ltd. due to the excellence of the products
it delivered, in terms of their quality and the timing of their delivery.
Participation in Test Demonstration of ITS (Intelligent Transportation System)
Alpine participated in an open test of drive-through using ITS spot communication. The aim of the test was
to promote the use of ITS spots by putting in place partnerships among several private companies in which
they cooperate in store operation and navigation, thus improving drive-throughs’ convenience. The test
also attracted attention for featuring the world’s first in-car order settlement system using credit cards.
Development of ultra-thin (1-inch) speakers