since 1976
since 1976
From Kenwood-Electronics Press Release
Kenwood has launched a new range of sophisticated dashcams which offer improved quality footage from a camera which would comfortably fit in the palm of your hand. The new models will be building on the brand’s award-winning reputation which has seen its cameras offered as accessories at a string of official franchised car dealers.
The new DRV range is available with resolutions from 1080P to full 4K, all with the ability to record sound in addition to video. All models are small enough to easily hide behind a rear-view mirror, being around the same size as a wireless earbud case at 58.5mm x 42.8mm x 24.4mm.
Despite the dimensions, Kenwood has kept a full 2-inch colour TFT screen to allow easier navigation of the menus and allowing the user to instantly check the aim and operation of the cameras.
Drivers can also connect their DRV to a smartphone using a Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to pair with the dedicated Kenwood app. This makes it faster to link and allows live software updates to the camera.
Special attention has been paid to the size of the cables and connectors to ensure the wiring can be kept neat and discreet, giving an original factory look to the installations.
World first – waterproof rear camera
Adding a rear camera is an increasingly popular option, especially for professional drivers who need all-round protection. But for vehicles with no or limited rear vision, it is impossible to get an unimpeded view behind. This affects owners of everything from commercial vehicles and motorhomes to convertibles and mid-engined supercars. Even heavily tinted rear windows can result in suboptimal camera footage.
The new Kenwood opens up the possibility of a rear camera for these drivers with an option to mount the waterproof rear camera on the outside of the vehicle. Three mounting choices are included, allowing the lens to be fixed to the numberplate trim, bumper recess or the more conventional location, inside the rear windscreen.
Like the front camera, the rear lens is discreet, measuring about the same as a stock cube. It is IP67 rated for waterproofing and has a 5.5m long cable, allowing it to be used with large vehicles. Once mounted, it can record the view from the rear of the car in full 2560x1440 resolution.
If using the optional hardwire kit, it will also allow drivers to use Enhanced Smart Parking Surveillance. This has three modes which can either film continually on a time lapse, or trigger recording when the unit detects vibrations or motion in front of the camera. It will automatically record 30 seconds of video until no more vibrations or motions are detected.
This will give van drivers added peace of mind for their security knowing their back doors are covered by a motion detection camera system.
The hardwire kit brings other advantages too. In addition to looking neater, it features a 60-second timer to ensure the video recording is not interrupted by modern stop/start systems. It will also sense if the car’s battery is getting low on charge and turn off automatically. It has already been approved by Volkswagen UK for use with their electric vehicle range.
