UPDATE: Azentek gaining buzz for its in-dash infotainment system
at Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, read the article from The Flint Journal.
Watch clips from the press conference (2:57) and ABC12's coverage.
Click here to see some of the coolest features
of Azentek's all-in-one fully integrated in-car multimedia PC (2:49).
GRAND BLANC COMPANY TO BUILD MULTI-MEDIA PC
FOR USE IN VEHICLES
Genesee Regional Chamber of Commerce photo
Azentek has developed the first all-in-one fully integrated in-car multimedia PC, named the Atlas CPC-1000. |
(FLINT, MICHIGAN, JUNE 18, 2008) Azentek, a privately held company headquartered in Grand Blanc, Michigan, will build the first all-in-one fully integrated computer system for use in consumer and commercial vehicles. The company currently employs 13 and announced today its plans to move into a larger facility and create 78 new jobs over the next five years. The company has received assistance from the Genesee Regional Chamber of Commerce, Grand Blanc Township, and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation to support this opportunity for growth and jobs creation in Michigan. Read the articles from The Flint Journal or WNEM TV5.
The Michigan Economic Growth Authority acted yesterday to approve a tax incentive package valued at over $1.5 million over 10 years to encourage Azentek to undertake its expansion in Michigan. This MEGA tax credit requires local support for the project from Grand Blanc Township. Their Board of Trustees is scheduled to act on Azentek’s request for Industrial Facilities Tax Abatement on July 10.

Genesee Regional Chamber of Commerce photo
Tim Herman (left), Genesee Regional Chamber CEO, shakes hands with Johnny Cooper, Azentek President & CEO, after introducing him at the June 18 press conference. |
“Azentek is an innovative company doing exciting work, and we are thrilled to support their continued growth in Michigan,” Governor Jennifer M. Granholm said. “Our competitive business climate and outstanding workforce make Michigan a great place for high-tech companies to invest and create jobs.”
Organized in 2006, Azentek designs and develops in-vehicle infotainment systems. The company plans to invest $3 million in this expansion.
“Azentek represents the new Genesee County,” said Tim Herman, CEO of the Genesee Regional Chamber of Commerce. “With their decision to expand and build their products here in Grand Blanc, Azentek is proving that we are a community that can build and market hi-tech products. I am very
proud of the work done by the Regional Chamber’s economic development staff. They have worked hand-in-hand with Azentek to make sure the company received the tax credits and tax abatements needed to make this project work. The community owes them a debt of gratitude.”
Azentek has developed the first all-in-one fully integrated in-car multimedia PC, named the Atlas CPC-1000. This in-car computer operates on voice command, providing the latest navigation, entertainment and computing capabilities. Operating on the latest Microsoft Vista operating system, the Atlas system includes built-in WiFi, voice recognition, AM/FM tuner, XM/Sirius/HD radio capabilities, Bluetooth, CD/DVD rewriter, GPS navigation, VOIP capabilities, and can operate other software loaded by the user.

Genesee Regional Chamber of Commerce photo
Azentek’s ruggedized version of the Atlas CPC-1000 is being built for use in military, distribution, construction, and other applications. |
“We are pleased to receive this incentive support from the State of Michigan and Grand Blanc Township. It will allow us to undertake more of Azentek’s growth here in Genesee County,” explains Azentek President & CEO, Johnny Cooper. “Our ground-breaking technology is receiving strong attention from retailers for aftermarket sales. We anticipate our first phase of growth to take place in this aftermarket segment.”
Even soldiers can strap a “ruggedized” model to their thigh and carry the system into battle. Azentek’s ruggedized version of the computer is being built for use in military, distribution, construction, and other applications.
Azentek’s products, including the Atlas CPC-1000, have earned several awards and recognition including “Best of CES” at the Consumer Electronics Show, Las Vegas in January 2008; and “Best Aftermarket Device” at the Telematics Update Magazine May, 2008 Telematics Awards. Azentek has established strategic alliances with numerous corporations including Microsoft, Intel, General Motors, and Ford.
Click here to visit Azentek online. |