TagStation Fuels Up Connected Car Efforts

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As part of its strategy to deliver an enhanced visual hybrid radio station experience beyond the smartphone, TagStation is increasing focused efforts on the connected car.


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Derek Rohloff

In doing so, the Emmis Communications-owned tech company has hired Derek Rohloff for the role of VP/Automotive Business Development to spearhead inclusion in the next generation auto dashboard.

TagStation’s activity in the dashboard space began in 2012, when it worked with a leading OEM to build a prototype for SmartDeviceLink.

Rapid advancements in the connected car and the growing demand for an enhanced radio experience are leading the company’s automotive expansion.

“Derek brings his proven expertise and deep industry contacts to the team which will help us ramp up quickly,” said Paul Brenner, President, NextRadio and TagStation.  “The timing is right for the company, as we are poised and ready to showcase what we can offer to the automotive industry.”

Rohloff previously served as VP of Worldwide Content and U.S. Automotive at Xevo Inc., and as VP/Automotive Strategic Partnerships at iHeartMedia. From 1993-1998, he was a Laboratory Supervisor at Ford Motor Co.

The TagStation service provides radio stations with artist and title information and unique interactivity with listeners. With partial funding from NAB Labs, TagStation also developed the NextRadio hybrid radio smartphone app.

RBR + TVBR