Cedar Electronics is a leading U.S.-based manufacturer of advanced consumer electronics, specializing in automotive and communication technology. Headquartered in Rolling Meadows, Illinois, Cedar Electronics is the parent company of the iconic brands Cobra Electronics, ESCORT Radar, and Drive Smarter. With over 60 years of industry experience, the company has built a strong reputation for innovation, reliability, and performance in the automotive aftermarket space.
Company Overview
Cedar Electronics was formed through the strategic integration of industry-leading companies to create a unified platform focused on automotive safety, driver awareness, and communication. Led by Gail Babitt, CEO of Cedar Electronics, the company combines legacy expertise with forward-thinking strategies in connected car technology and smart mobility.
The company serves both retail and professional channels across North America, Europe, and Asia, with a strong focus on R&D, strategic partnerships, and customer-centric product development.
Product Portfolio
Cedar Electronics offers a wide range of products under its key brands, targeting motorists, truckers, adventurers, and professional fleets. The portfolio is centered around smart technology, user safety, and real-time connectivity.
Key Product Categories:
-
Radar Detectors
- ESCORT MAX 360c
- ESCORT Redline 360c
- Cobra RAD 480i
-
Dash Cameras
- Cobra SC 400D
- ESCORT M2 Smart Dash Cam
-
CB Radios
- Cobra 29 LX
- Cobra 75 WX ST
-
Marine Radios
- Cobra MR HH600
- Cobra MR F77
-
Two-Way Radios
- Cobra ACXT1035R FLT
- Cobra PX500 Pro
-
Portable Power Solutions
- Cobra JumPack XL H2O
- Cobra Power Station 200W
Each product is engineered with cutting-edge technology including GPS, AI-based threat detection, cloud-based connectivity, weatherproof construction, and mobile app integration.
Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
Cedar Electronics differentiates itself through its integrated ecosystem of connected devices and mobile applications. The Drive Smarter® platform unifies Cobra and ESCORT products, offering users:
- Real-time community alerts
- Cloud video storage
- Speed limit and red light camera data
- Device diagnostics and firmware updates
Additionally, ESCORT’s exclusive Defender Database provides access to one of the most accurate and frequently updated databases of driving threats and enforcement zones in the industry.
Market Presence and Customer Segments
Cedar Electronics serves a wide customer base, including:
- Consumer drivers seeking radar detectors and dash cams
- Truckers and logistics operators using CB and two-way radios
- Marine and outdoor users needing reliable communications equipment
- Emergency responders and fleet managers adopting integrated safety systems
Products are sold through:
- Major retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, and Amazon
- Specialized distributors in the automotive aftermarket
- Direct-to-consumer via brand websites
- Professional installation and dealership networks
Technological Innovation and R&D
Cedar has continuously pushed boundaries in automotive electronics through:
- Cloud-connected dash cams with mobile integration
- Dual-band radar detection systems with AI filtering
- Smart power stations and portable jump starters
- Bluetooth mesh communication in two-way radios
Its technology is supported by strategic collaboration with partners such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), which powers Cedar’s cloud analytics and mobile platforms.
Manufacturing and Supply Chain
Cedar operates global supply chains with manufacturing partners across North America and Asia. Product quality and compliance are ensured through ISO-certified production facilities and rigorous QA protocols.
The company has implemented advanced forecasting, inventory management, and rapid logistics systems to support both retail and e-commerce fulfillment in over 30 countries.
Awards and Recognition
Cedar and its brands have received numerous accolades, including:
- CES Innovation Awards
- Top Rankings by RadarTest.com and DriveRadar.org
- SEMA Show Best New Product
- Trusted Reviews and Editor’s Picks from automotive tech publications
ESCORT's MAX 360c and Redline 360c are consistently rated among the best radar detectors by both industry analysts and consumers.
Sustainability and Compliance
Cedar Electronics is committed to sustainability through:
- Energy-efficient designs
- Reduced packaging waste
- E-recycling initiatives
- Compliance with RoHS, FCC, CE, and other international safety standards
Customer Testimonials
Cedar brands are highly rated by consumers, with praise for:
- Product reliability and durability
- Accurate alerts and detection range
- Mobile app ease of use
- Professional customer service
On Amazon and Best Buy, most products hold ratings of 4.5 stars or higher, with thousands of reviews.
Major Achievements
- Over 50 million radar detectors and communication devices sold
- Leader in radar detection market share in the U.S.
- Developed and maintained the largest community-based driver alert network
- Launched fully integrated Drive Smarter® mobile ecosystem
- Strong presence in over 30 global markets
Cedar Electronics continues to lead the automotive electronics sector with innovative, safety-first solutions tailored for the connected driver. By combining legacy brands, cutting-edge technology, and a strong customer-centric philosophy, Cedar is shaping the future of driver awareness and mobility solutions.