Harman, a major infotainment console manufacturer

Music console, known as the infotainment center, in automobiles are getting more sophisticated. Today the console is the control center for the growing number of electronic gadgets in your car. It plays your favorite song in surround sounds, connect your iPod and iPhone, you can listen to live radio broadcast, it will access the satellite radio, display your navigation, turn on your front and rear-view cameras, access internet and provide Bluetooth connectivity for hands free calling, some on your voice command. One of the industry leaders in providing all of this is Harman International Industries founded by Sidney Harman.

Harman has factories in Hungary, three manufacturing plants in China and another in Mexico. About 18 percent of the cars sold worldwide carry infotainment centers and expected to be included in all cars within next five years. That is about 100 million light vehicles a year by 2020.

Harman integrated-control systems are found in Daimler’s Mercedes, BMW, Toyota and motorcycles made by Harley-Davidson. Harman also own JBL which is a major player in concert hall and sports arena equipment.

The company expects to get more contracts from the manufacturers below the Mercedes and BMW brands such as Volkswagen and Peugeot.