 | |
| Type | Public |
|---|---|
| Founded | Cleveland, Ohio (1982) |
| Headquarters | , United States |
| Parent | Voxx International |
| Website | www.directed.com |
Directed Electronics, Inc., often abbreviated DEI, is an Orlando, Florida-based producer of car security products, including Viper car alarms and accessories. It is a subsidiary of VOXX Automotive, which is owned by VOXX International.
DEI was founded in Cleveland, Ohio in 1982 by Darrell and Kathy Issa. [1] Darrell served as the company's first CEO.
In 1986, the company headquarters moved to Vista, California, in San Diego County. In 1999, the Issas sold their share of DEI to Miami, Florida-based private equity firm Trivest. [1]
In 2000, Darrell Issa was elected to the House of Representatives, and Jim Minarik replaced him as CEO. [2]
In 2008, DEI adapted a holding company strategy, and its parent company became DEI Holdings, Inc. [3]
In 2011, Trivest sold the company to Charlesbank Capital Partners. [4]
In March 2017, the company announced Robert Struble as their new CEO. [4]
In July 2020, VOXX International acquired the majority of Directed's automotive aftermarket business, adding eight brands, headlined by Viper.
The company distributes various brands of car alarms and vehicle start systems, including AstroStart, Automate, Autostart, Avital, Clifford, Python and Viper.[ citation needed ]
Darrell Edward Issa is an American businessman and politician serving as the U.S. representative for California's 48th congressional district. He represented the 50th congressional district from 2021 to 2023. A member of the Republican Party, he previously served in the United States House of Representatives from 2001 to 2019, representing two districts primarily covering North County in the San Diego area, first the 48th district for one term and then the 49th district for eight terms. From January 2011 to January 2015, he chaired the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee.
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