(NAPSI)-A soccer mom in a minivan may have more in common with a hot-rod-driving gearhead than you might expect.


Chances are they’re both looking for ways to customize their vehicles.

In fact, according to Consumer Reports, 73 percent of car owners personalize their autos in some way or plan to in the future-and we’re not just talking vanity plates.

Today, personalizing a car or truck can mean turning it into a minicommunications hub, complete with satellite radio, built-in GPS, DVD players and voice-command cell phones and MP3 players.



However, many of these upgrades experience interference with another popular car customization:

Window Films.

Many traditional high-performance window films, designed to block significant amounts of the sun’s heat and UV rays, are manufactured with a ceramic or metallic layer that maximizes solar performance but can also cause reception problems or prevent devices from working properly.

Electronic devices like cell phones, GPS systems, AM radio transmissions, diversified FM antenna systems, keyless entry devices, remote starters, tire pressure sensors and radar detectors may experience interference from traditional high-performance window films.

Window of Opportunity

One solution is to install Pinnacle Series™ film available from FormulaOne Performance Automotive Film® dealers.

The film rejects up to 61 percent of the sun’s heat and reduces glare to create a more comfortable driving experience but doesn’t block device signals, allowing car owners to use their gadgets without interference.

In addition, installation of Pinnacle Series films results in cooler interior surface temperatures (by up to 30 degrees), less interior cracking and fading and faster air-conditioning cool-down times.

Available in a variety of shades, the film also adds an element of privacy to a car, something that’s become increasingly important to drivers, especially as they add valuable upgrades to their cars.

Great Gadgets

So what else is hot in the high-tech auto-gadget world?

Here’s a closer look:

• A new wireless system lets drivers turn on a home’s interior lights, unlock doors and interface with appliances and security systems from the car.

• One company’s new line of pickups is equipped with personal computers that can send e-mail from the cab.

• Another company is bringing Wi-Fi to cars by enabling passengers to connect to the Internet via laptops.

For more information, and to locate facilities that install automotive window film, visit www.formulaone.com or call (800) 653-1367.

A new type of window film is designed to add fashion and function but will not interfere with GPS systems and other devices.