A new security system scheduled for release this spring is designed to provide auto owners with Web-enabled, two-way GPS (global positioning system) vehicle location services including theft tracking and emergency road assistance. Seaguard Electronics, LLC and Directed Electronics, Inc. (DEI) have jointly developed the Valet Car*Com II system, which also features up to nine channels of user-configurable, wireless one-way remote vehicle commands. Owners can operate door locks and remotely start their cars through integrated and fully automated Internet and telephone voice response systems. According to the companies, the system lets drivers program their cars to automatically lock, activate alarm systems and start their engines in time to warm up before leaving for work in the morning. The Car*Com system can be accessed over any type of telephone or Internet connection, including mobile devices such as cellular phones or PDAs (personal digital assistants). Seaguard also will include its SkyAlert service with the Car*Com system in order to provide a set of automated and operator-assisted concierge services for DEI customers, including emergency roadside assistance, point-to-point trip routing, operator-assisted vehicle location and door unlock/lock service, and location-sensitive yellow pages. Seaguard chairman and chief executive officer Bill Tsumpes said the joint development of the system with DEI seeks to overcome the deficiencies and power concerns that are inherent in most mobile GPS products. "Together we are on track to deliver an affordable and competitive telematics solution," Tsumpes said. Nationwide Antitheft Network All Car*Com 2 systems feature national theft tracking and emergency law enforcement notification services to be provided through a nationally licensed network of monitoring stations. Preliminary pricing for the system itself, uninstalled, including some combination of security, keyless entry or remote engine start, is $699. The annual fee for the highest level of Car*Com 2 service is projected to be $149.95 (after a $20 one-time activation fee), which will include unlimited one-way commands, four tracking events per year and 30 on-screen vehicle locations per month. About Directed Electronics, Inc. Directed Electronics, Inc. manufactures vehicle security and convenience systems and installation accessories, marketed under such brands as Viper, Clifford, Python, Avital, Sidewinder and Valet. The company is located in Vista, Calif. About Seaguard Electronics, LLC Based in Irvine, Calif, Seaguard Electronics, LLC is a wireless communications developer specializing in wireless-to-Web system interfaces and reporting. The company manufactures remote monitoring, reporting and data collection systems, including integrated event-specific messaging systems and notification products.