Yes, I actually really have the impression they took an Empeg as a model. Even the layout of buttons and knobs seems too similar: also, why putting the volume knob on the right side, UK-Style, otherwise?
Of course, I am just guessing...
Anyway, I could not understand from their website if it ONLY gets MP3 from ripping the original CD in the car, or if it also accepts them via other means: usb, ethernet, etc... ? If it only rips CDs in car, that really bad, I think.