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Garmin buys out SA bicycle safety startup iKubu

Being a small South African technology company isn’t always such a bad thing, especially if you have managed to gain the attention of US-based navigational giant Garmin. Stellenbosch-based iKubu managed to do just that, as Garmin announced it has acquired its assets for an undisclosed amount.

iKubu grabbed Garmin’s attention with its commercial radar system Backtracker for cyclists, which would alert them to any dangers or hazards in their path through radar and a information screen.

“iKubu has found a way to implement short-range radar into a low-power system that addresses a common concern among cyclists – identifying potential hazards that are approaching them from behind. We are delighted to add this technology to the Garmin portfolio,” said Cliff Pemble, Garmin’s president and CEO in a media statement.

Garmin showed interest in iKubu even before Backtracker completed its development cycle – which also scans the road behind cyclists while doubling up as a flashing caution light.

“Garmin is a technological leader among cyclists, and we are looking forward to integrating our technology and expertise into their outstanding products. Garmin gives us the resources to develop, bring to market, and showcase our products that we otherwise would not have,” said Franz Struwig, managing director of iKubu, in a statement.

iKubu’s current staff will become employees of Garmin’s operations in South Africa, while still being based in Stellenbosch at the company’s research and development centre.

[Source – Garmin, image – iKubu]

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