What InterMotive does

InterMotive, Inc. is a privately held US designer and manufacturer of plug-and-play electronic control systems for commercial vehicles, founded in 1996 by Greg and Linda Schafer and headquartered in Auburn, California, with a secondary facility in Elkhart, Indiana established in 2012. The company builds modules that read a vehicle's native CAN bus data and use it to activate, interlock or load-manage aftermarket equipment without cutting factory wiring, producing a portfolio of more than 40 SKUs sold under trademarks such as Upfitter Interface Module (UIM), EcoStar III, IdleLock with AutoSense, FlexTech, Gateway, HawkEye, FlexSpeak, Speed Sentinel and OpsVantage. Product lines are organized by end market — law enforcement (Officer Protection Package standard-fit on the 2017+ Dodge Charger Pursuit), transit/school bus/mobility (wheelchair interlocks, ADA annunciators, hazard flasher logic), ambulance/fire (high-idle and battery management), work trucks (Door Lock, Shift Interlock, Cruise Control Modules), RVs, and upfitters — and the company opened a new body-harnessing division, InterMotive Connect, in January 2025.

InterMotive makes money by designing, assembling in the US and selling hardware modules plus, increasingly, integrated wire harnesses. Pricing is quote-based and not publicly disclosed; revenue is one-time hardware sales through single-unit purchases, fleet rollouts and OEM-level standard-fit inclusions, with after-sales service parts and out-of-warranty replacements flowing through a dedicated service-parts program. Go-to-market is 100% indirect via LGS Group, Inc. (founded in 2014 by the Schafer family as the exclusive master distributor), which in turn sells through a network of regional dealers across the United States and Canada and dedicated inside-sales contacts split by vertical (transit/mobility/RV/school bus, law enforcement/ambulance/fire, work truck, international). Strategic OEM relationships include Forest River (FlexTech-equipped bus platforms from 2018), FCA US (Officer Protection Package), SoundOff Signal (emergency-vehicle channel 2020), and a long-standing manufacturing partnership with PRIDE Industries. Customization and configurability — programmable outputs, OEM-key-fob proximity logic, mobile-app pairing — are positioned as the core differentiator versus generic aftermarket electronics. The company is ISO 9001:2015 certified, has cumulatively produced more than 500,000 units, and operates with 101-250 employees. Founders Greg and Linda Schafer stepped down from day-to-day roles on December 31, 2024, and Carl Wacker was promoted from Senior Vice President to President effective January 1, 2025.

Name

InterMotive

Legal name

InterMotive, Inc.

Website

https://intermotive.net

Company type

Private

Founded year

1996

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

101–250 employees

Short description

InterMotive, Inc. designs and manufactures plug-and-play CAN-bus electronic control modules and body harnesses for US and Canadian commercial vehicles, serving law enforcement, transit, school bus, ambulance, fire, work truck, RV and mobility markets through exclusive distributor LGS Group.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Commercial Vehicle Electronic Controls

NAICS

Motor Vehicle Electrical and Electronic Equipment Manufacturing (33632), Motor Vehicle Parts Manufacturing (3363)

SIC

Motor Vehicle Parts & Accessories (3714), Electronic Components & Accessories (3670)

akta.pro primary industry

Automotive ECUs/Control Modules & Embedded Electronics Manufacturing (IMACAJAC)

akta.pro secondary industry

Truck Telematics, ADAS & Fleet Electronics Manufacturing (IMACABAM)

Keywords

• Commercial vehicle electronics
• CAN bus integration
• Idle management systems
• Vehicle safety interlocks
• Fleet electronic controls

Headquarters

HQ city

Auburn

HQ country

United States

HQ region

North America

Offices2 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Supply Chain, Operations, Technology or R&D, Personnel, Marketing or Sales

Revenue model

1. Electronic Control System Hardware Sales: InterMotive designs and manufactures proprietary electronic control modules for commercial vehicles. Products are sold as hardware units through the LGS Group distribution network. Revenue is generated through one-time product sales to fleets, upfitters, dealers, and vehicle manufacturers. Service parts and replacement modules are also sold through LGS Group.
2. Service Parts and Replacement Products: Replacement parts and out-of-warranty products are sold through LGS Group. The company maintains a service parts program for continued customer support after initial sale.

Go-to-market motion1 record

Distribution channels3 records

Marketing channels6 records

Core offering

InterMotive designs, manufactures, and sells plug-and-play electronic control systems that leverage OEM vehicle CAN data networks to add idle management, safety interlocks, theft prevention, officer protection, load control, and accessibility functions to commercial vehicles. Products integrate directly with OEM chassis systems without cutting or modifying factory wiring, and are sold exclusively through master distributor LGS Group to fleets, upfitters, dealers, and OEMs serving law enforcement, transit, school bus, work truck, ambulance, fire, RV, and mobility markets.

Product overview

InterMotive Vehicle Controls is a commercial vehicle electronic control systems manufacturer offering a comprehensive portfolio of plug-and-play products designed for Class 1-7 work trucks, law enforcement, emergency response vehicles, transit/school buses, RVs, and mobility vehicles. The product portfolio centers on CAN data integration and includes core product categories: Idle Management Systems (EcoStar III, EcoStar, EcoLock, EcoRaiser, IdleLock, IdleGuard, Idle Timer Controller, eVolution, ITC/ITD, HighLock), Safety Interlocks (Gateway, ILISP/ILISC, Lift Interlock, WTSI, Pre-Trip Module, Emergency Door Module, Crank Disable/Enable, MobiliSafe), Upfitter Interface Solutions (UIM, UIM+, UIM4, FlexTech with PRPC, Break Out Box, J1939 Translator, CAN Vehicle Controller), Law Enforcement Products (Police Interface Module, OpsVantage, Officer Protection Package, Surveillance Mode Module, Blackout Module, Intelligent Switch Module, Chime Mute, Camera Controller), Theft Prevention (AutoGARD, CATalert, IdleLock), and Specialty Products (HawkEye Obstacle Detection, FlexSpeak Voice Annunciator, Speed Sentinel, TempGuard, Door Lock Module, Cruise Control Module, Tail Light Controller). The company also offers InterMotive Connect, a body harnessing division providing customized wire solutions. Products leverage OEM vehicle data networks and are designed for upfitters and fleet operators.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• InterMotive Connect: Vehicle body harnessing division offering customized wire harnessing solutions and integrated electronic control systems. Located in Elkhart, IN.

Products and services

• Upfitter Interface Module Family (UIM/UIM+/UIM4) Programmable passive CAN data access modules for vehicle upfitters to control aftermarket equipment using OEM chassis data without modifying factory wiring. Configurable outputs support momentary, latching, time-hold, time-delay, or flashing functions. Variants include UIM, UIM+, UIM4, and OpsVantage for officer protection.
• Idle Management Systems (EcoStar III, EcoLock, EcoRaiser, eVolution, Idle Timer Controller) Programmable idle reduction systems that automatically turn off/on commercial vehicle engines based on customizable conditions including battery voltage, brake application, interior cabin temperature, or elapsed time, designed to reduce fuel costs, maintenance, and anti-idling fees while reducing CO2 emissions.
• IdleLock Theft Prevention System Theft prevention system that allows the engine to idle with the key removed and the vehicle secured. Includes AutoSense variant that automatically locks the shifter in Park when the officer exits with the key fob, using key fob proximity detection. New IdleLock Type C variant for school bus chassis launched July 2025.
• Officer Protection Package (OPP) and Surveillance Mode Module Motion detection system that alerts officers with audio/visual warnings and locks vehicle doors when motion is detected behind the vehicle while the officer is outside, available for Dodge Charger and Dodge Durango pursuit vehicles. Now offered as standard on 2017+ Dodge Charger Pursuit vehicles.
• Police Interface Module (PIM) and OpsVantage Multi-feature module allowing law enforcement vehicle customization including Dark Car mode, Blackout Mode, custom steering wheel button reprogramming (momentary, latching, timed or progressive), and wig-wag lights. OpsVantage launched May 2025 combines UIM+ and PIM features for officer protection with custom CAN utilization.
• FlexTech PRC Load Control System Complete customizable vehicle electrical load control system including UIM16R Upfitter Interface Module technology with switch backer board and expansion board options for managing accessory power distribution in commercial vehicles.
• Gateway Wheelchair Safety Interlock and Lift Interlock Systems All-in-one wheelchair safety interlock system (Gateway) and lift interlock products (HighLock, ILISP/ILISC, Lift Interlock LOCK, MobiliSafe) that prevent vehicle movement when wheelchair lift is in operation and integrate high idle to maintain vehicle power during lift use, for transit and school bus applications.
• FlexSpeak ADA Talking Bus Voice Annunciator Automated voice annunciator system with configurable audio messages for driver, passenger, and/or external announcements, supporting ADA accessibility compliance on transit and Para-transit buses.
• HawkEye Obstacle Detection System In-bumper ultrasonic front/rear object detection system that alerts drivers with audible warnings when objects are detected, enhancing safety for large commercial vehicles such as buses and trucks.
• Break Out Box (BOBe) and J1939 Translator Multi-access hub for vehicle network connections that reduces compatibility issues and the need for multiple harnesses. Provides passive data acquisition with an auxiliary CAN network for third-party telematics and equipment devices. J1939 Translator additionally converts Ford CAN networks to J1939-based systems.
• InterMotive Connect Body Harnessing Solutions Customized wire harnessing solutions from switch to load, using advanced equipment and software to provide superior digitized wire harness design and build processes with individual harness testing, certification labeling, multicolor wire marking, and state-of-the-art as-built prints for vehicle upfitters and OEMs.
• School Bus Flasher (SBF) School bus safety flasher system that warns other drivers when the bus is approaching a stop, controls light functions and arms operation, and integrates with the FlexTech programmable electrical system for school bus applications.
• Work Truck and Specialty Products (Door Lock Module, EcoRaiser, Cruise Control Module, Tail Light Controller, WTSI, LockBoss, AutoGARD, IdleGuard) Commercial work truck electronic control products including Door Lock Module for chassis security, EcoRaiser combined idle reduction and remote start system, Cruise Control Module, Tail Light Controller for OEM/aftermarket LED integration, Work Truck Shift Interlock (WTSI), LockBoss cabinet lock alarm, AutoGARD transmission theft prevention, and IdleGuard key fob proximity idle control.
• Blackout Module (BOM) Module that turns off exterior/interior lights and alert chimes when activated for law enforcement covert operations. Module disengages automatically when vehicle reaches 5-20 mph. For government use only.
• Speed Sentinel II Road Speed Limiter Vehicle road speed limiting system that limits maximum vehicle road speed with passing mode and emergency response override capabilities for fleet operators.

Quantifiable outcome

• Idle reduction systems help fleets save on fuel costs, maintenance, and anti-idling fees
• +3 more outcomes

Named customers6 records

Segments7 records

Ideal customer profiles5 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature10 records

Partnerships

Seven partnerships are on record, tiered minor and core.

• SoundOff SignalminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ Distributor · 1 June 2020SoundOff Signal was announced as a new product distributor for InterMotive in 2020. SoundOff Signal is a national distributor of emergency vehicle equipment.
• PRIDE IndustriescoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2020Long-standing manufacturing partnership where PRIDE Industries, a nonprofit that provides employment for people with disabilities, assembles InterMotive products. Featured in Metro Magazine webinar and ABC10 News for their collaboration making buses accessible. InterMotive was recognized for finding hidden labor force in people with disabilities.
• Forest RivercoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 October 2018InterMotive and Forest River announced partnership in 2018 to upgrade buses with FlexTech™ systems. Forest River is a major manufacturer of buses and RVs.
• LGS Group, Inc.coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ Distributor · 1 January 2014LGS Group, Inc. was founded in 2014 by InterMotive owners Greg and Linda Schafer to become the master distributor for InterMotive products. LGS Group handles all product sales, distribution, orders, and has offices in Reno, Nevada and Elkhart, Indiana. The company manages a network of local dealers across the US and Canada.
• Protek Vehicle ControlsminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorProtek Vehicle Controls is a Quebec-based distributor for InterMotive products. Contact: 514-360-6367, www.covepro.ca.
• Creative Carriage, Ltd.minorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorCreative Carriage, Ltd. is an Ontario-based distributor specializing in mobility and transit products for InterMotive. Located in St. George, ON.
• RWC GroupminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorRWC Group distributes certain InterMotive products (IdleLock Type C/D) in Arizona and Washington state.

Scale indicators4 records

Recent moves10 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Direct peers

• Setina Manufacturing: Setina Manufacturing designs and builds aftermarket equipment for law enforcement and emergency vehicles, including prisoner partitions, weapon mounts, and integrated vehicle electronics. Highly comparable to InterMotive's law enforcement product line targeting the same police fleet upfitter channel.
• SoundOff Signal: SoundOff Signal manufactures emergency vehicle lighting and control electronics and is also an InterMotive distribution partner. Directly comparable as an aftermarket electronics supplier for law enforcement and emergency vehicles.
• Havis: Havis produces vehicle mounting, docking, and integrated equipment solutions for public safety, utility, and fleet vehicles. Comparable as a supplier of integrated aftermarket vehicle electronics and equipment for the same police, fire, and work truck upfitter channels.
• Troy Products: Troy Products designs and manufactures police vehicle equipment, including prisoner partitions, weapon lock systems, and integrated electronic accessories. Directly comparable as a law enforcement vehicle equipment specialist targeting the same upfitter and patrol fleet customers.
• Safety Vision (Code 3): Code 3 / Safety Vision supplies emergency vehicle lighting, sirens, and mobile video systems to law enforcement and emergency fleets. Comparable as an aftermarket electronics provider for the same police and emergency vehicle upfitter channel.
• Jotto Desk: Jotto Desk manufactures console systems, computer mounts, and integrated equipment for police and emergency vehicles. Comparable as a vehicle interior electronics and equipment supplier serving the same law enforcement fleet procurement channels.
• Muncie Power Products: Muncie Power Products designs and manufactures hydraulic and electronic power take-off (PTO), load management, and work truck body electronics. Directly comparable as a supplier of vehicle-mounted electronic and control systems for the same work truck and commercial vehicle upfitter market.

Broad incumbents

• Whelen Engineering: Whelen Engineering is a long-established manufacturer of emergency vehicle lighting, sirens, and warning electronics used by law enforcement, fire, and EMS fleets. Comparable as a broader incumbent supplier of electronic safety and warning systems to the same commercial/emergency vehicle customer base.
• Federal Signal Corporation: Federal Signal is a diversified manufacturer of public safety, environmental, and industrial equipment including emergency vehicle warning systems. Comparable as a larger incumbent serving overlapping fleet and emergency vehicle end markets with electronic safety and signaling products.

Emerging players

• Cattron: Cattron manufactures industrial remote control systems and vehicle control electronics used in heavy equipment and commercial vehicles. Partially comparable as a control electronics manufacturer for commercial and off-road vehicles, though focused on industrial rather than fleet aftermarket channels.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• Xx.com/intermotive
• YouTubeintermotive.net/demo-videos
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/jobs/intermotive-vehicle-controls-jobs-worldwide
• Facebookfacebook.com/intermotive

Compliance1 record

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles4 records

Subsidiaries1 record

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about InterMotive