Stinger, Leading Manufacturer of Vehicle Aftermarket Solutions Acquires Race Sport Lighting, Inc.

Clearwater, FL, July 19, 2024 – Stinger, leading designer and manufacturer of vehicle solutions, has acquired the assets of Race Sport Lighting, known for its aftermarket lighting technologies. This acquisition signifies the continued expansion of Stinger’s influence in the aftermarket vehicle accessory landscape and highlights their dedication to providing innovative solutions for vehicles of all types. By integrating Race Sport Lighting’s innovative technologies and expertise, Stinger aims to enhance its product offerings and broaden the range of lighting solutions to allow customers to “Define their Drive”.

Race Sport Lighting has established itself by developing and manufacturing innovative premium products for Automotive, Marine, Powersports and Commercial markets. The brand has several of their most popular lighting technologies made right here in the USA. The acquisition strengthens Stinger’s existing portfolio of brands spanning lighting, infotainment, audio and camera/safety solutions.

Herb Brown, Stinger President, North America states “The acquisition of Race Sport marks a pivotal step in entrenching us deeper into the aftermarket vehicle product offering and continues our expansion into commercial vehicle applications for fleets, agriculture and marine. Race Sport allows us to further illuminate the road ahead with even greater innovation and diversity. We’re excited to integrate their expertise and expand our commitment to providing top-tier solutions for every automotive enthusiast.

Race Sport’s most notable lighting accessories will seamlessly integrate into Stinger’s infotainment ecosystem for enhanced lighting customizations, products include LED headlights and ambient interior and exterior lighting.

We are extremely excited to join the Stinger family and begin making future investments in innovation and the growth of the lighting category,” said Steve Jergensen, president of Race Sport Lighting. “Joining such a great company with a solid reputation is going to be great for our industry partners.”

For over 17 years, Race Sport has been driven by a relentless commitment to illuminating the world with innovation, quality, and style. Race Sport’s mission is to provide cutting-edge lighting solutions that not only enhance driving safety and visibility but also transform the way people experience and enjoy lighting to fit their lifestyle.

For more information about Stinger and its expanded product lineup, visit StingerSolutions.com

About Stinger:
For over 34 years Stinger has advanced automotive aftermarket technology. The company’s R&D capabilities have positioned Stinger as the market leader in highly engineered integration solutions, which enable aftermarket audio, safety, and infotainment products to work seamlessly with factory systems. Stinger is known for its PAC, AudioControl, Stinger Commercial, EchoMaster, and Connects2 brands. Stinger’s focus on customer satisfaction from design to fulfillment has made it a trusted supplier globally. For more information, please visit www.stingersolutions.com.

About Race Sport Lighting, Inc.:
Established in 2007, Race Sport Lighting has become a trusted LED lighting brand to customers all over the world, primarily in North America. The company offers a high-quality product at a competitive price in the market and backs it up with an exceptional customer service experience. Providing a consistently high-quality product and packing in full-service value is their foundation for growth, and the reason Race Sport Lighting is the brand the professionals use in lighting.

Mobile Solutions Announces MasterTech Advanced Door Panel Fabrication Training

TEMPE, AZ (07.19.24) Mobile Solutions, a leader in creating the tools and training needed for custom automotive electronics, audio, and interior installations, is proud to announce its MasterTech Advanced Door Panel Fabrication Training, scheduled August 9-12 at Mobile Solutions headquarters in Tempe, Ariz. During the event, attendees will learn from the best in the business and enhance their shop’s capabilities by utilizing Mobile Solutions’ comprehensive training program that will reveal the secrets to mastering CAD design automation, 3D fabrication, upholstery, and high-end automotive finishes.

The MasterTech Advanced Door Panel Fabrication Training offers in-depth examples of three real-world design projects, executed to the highest level. Participants will have the opportunity to learn directly from Bryan Schmitt and special guest, the acclaimed automotive designer and master fabricator, Tom Miller.

What to expect from the MasterTech Advanced Door Panel Fabrication Training:

  • Hands-On Class: Participate in a hands-on class project that walks you through the entire design process from ideation to execution.
  • Finding Inspiration: Get tips on how to find inspiration and navigate through the ideation phase.
  • Efficient Planning: Improve your efficiency and elevate your design game with a fully realized plan, making it easier to start new projects and pitch ideas to clients.
  • Collaborative Learning Environment: Engage in a collaborative environment where you can share ideas and get feedback from peers and instructors.
  • Boost Your Business: Develop skills to effectively pitch your ideas and present your designs to potential clients.
  • Master Advanced Techniques: Develop a deeper understanding of cutting-edge processes and technologies.

“Everything starts with a plan,” said Miller. “In our Door Panel Fabrication Class, you’ll learn how to turn your idea into a compelling, executable plan. We’ll cover finding inspiration, ideation, sketching on paper, digital rendering, and 3D modeling. Starting a new project or pitching an idea can be tough, often leaving us stuck. This class will boost your design skills and efficiency, helping you create a fully realized plan.”

Schmitt concluded, “This is your chance to elevate your craftsmanship and stay ahead in the competitive automotive industry. Spaces are limited, so secure your spot now and ensure your place among the elite in fabrication.”

Class time is 8:15am – 5:30pm each day.

Visit mobilesolutions-usa.com/doorpanelclass for more information and lodging opportunities during the training.

For additional information, visit www.MobileSolutions-usa.com.

Hemmings Unveils Key Sponsorships and Event Highlights for UpShift

MONTEREY, CA (07.19.24) – Following the excitement of the initial announcement, Hemmings and Motoring Culture Club (MC2) are delighted to reveal further features of “UpShift,” an innovative event that blends the sophistication of classic cars with the dynamic history of Hip-Hop. Scheduled for August 15th at SandBox in Sand City, Calif., this event is set to be a distinctive celebration, breaking traditional boundaries and fostering connections among enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds.

Hemmings and MC2 are proud to announce that Complecto, a platform and agency committed to elevating and amplifying underrepresented voices in the watch industry and collecting community, has partnered with Accutron, Alpina, Bulova and Frederique Constant as sponsors for UpShift. By supporting the event, Complecto and the partnering watch brands are helping to create a unique platform that honors tradition, embraces the future, and fosters connections among diverse communities. Their involvement underscores the event’s mission to transcend traditional boundaries and create a welcoming environment where enthusiasts can unite to celebrate shared passions.

“Watches and cars have long shared a rich history, with a deep cultural intersection between watch collecting and automotive enthusiasm,” says Jason Gong, Founder of Complecto. “We are thrilled to partner with watch brands Accutron, Alpina, Bulova, and Frederique Constant as sponsors for UpShift, an event celebrating the rich heritage of classic cars with the vibrant history of Hip-Hop. Through this partnership, we look forward to fostering connections and creating an experience that elevates and moves the culture forward.”

UpShift is a collaborative initiative with MC2, a platform focused on curating the future of the car community. It represents a significant milestone for Hemmings, promoting a more accessible classic car culture. This event aims to not only celebrate the profound influence of Hip-Hop on classic car culture but also actively open the doors to a broader and more diverse audience. By integrating this dynamic music genre with automotive history, UpShift seeks to create a welcoming environment that transcends traditional boundaries, inviting enthusiasts of all backgrounds to connect over shared passions.

“UpShift represents a pivotal moment for Hemmings as we continue to promote an inclusive classic car culture. This event not only highlights the influence of Hip-Hop on automotive history but also invites a broader audience to experience the joy and passion of classic cars. We are committed to creating a welcoming environment where enthusiasts of all backgrounds – whether seasoned aficionados or new to the scene – can come together to celebrate shared passions,” said Jonathan Shaw, President of Hemmings.

Event Highlights:

  • Highlighted Cars: Attendees will be captivated by a curated collection of classic cars, meticulously assembled by Edris Ekhlas of Refresh.ERA. This company embodies the dynamic intersection of Hip Hop and automotive culture, celebrating their historical and contemporary connections. Highlights include Grammy-award-winning rapper Killer Mike’s Grand National, a tribute display honoring the late rapper Nipsey Hussle, a Maybach 57 inspired by New Orleans artist Birdman, and a ‘64 Impala lowrider, an icon of West Coast Hip Hop.
  • Luxury Watch Showcase: Attendees can get hands-on with a curated collection of luxury watches from sponsor brands Accutron, Alpina, Bulova and Frederique Constant
    Photography Exhibit: A captivating exhibit showcasing works sourced from artist-enthusiasts across America highlighting cars relevant to this period of Hip-Hop.
  • Hip-Hop and Culture: The event will feature a virtual set by DJ Self Born blending genres from disco to classic Hip-Hop. The DJ will provide the musical backdrop to the cars and evoke the spirit of the car culture synonymous with the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s.
  • Inclusive Experience: With a mission to open doors to the car community, UpShift is an intentionally welcoming space for enthusiasts from all walks of life, whether seasoned aficionados or new to the scene.

Tickets for the event range from $75-150 and can be purchased at https://www.tixr.com/groups/upshift/events/hemmings-upshift-108159.

For further information, interested sponsors can reach out via email at events@hemmings.com.

Autotek STREET MACHINE Amplifiers Deliver Mean Power and Loud Sound

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (07.19.24) – Delivering power that’s compact. Creating sound that’s clean and pure. This is STREET MACHINE POWER. Hear your sound through higher power. Embrace playback in every song that is powered through SM innovation!

Autotek STREET MACHINE amplifiers deliver an audio experience that brings out higher sound quality with minimum distortion levels and remains much more compact with a tighter footprint in size. Small amplifier size but MEAN POWER.

Power your sound with heavier STREET MACHINE amplifier gains and get ready to feed your audio through rich and clean-filled layers of deeper listening. The entire line of STREET MACHINE (SM) amplifiers features and includes monoblock, 2-channel, and 4-channel amplifiers.

Hear the highest sound quality in audio with quality RCA materials that help prevent interference and minimize distortion in the signal path. Embrace playback that infuses more detail and power into every song with a sleeker and more innovative style and design.

A high-energy pulse-width modulated power supply in every Autotek STREET MACHINE amplifier ensures more power is delivered with minimal impact or distortion throughout any song while remaining compact through an innovative smaller footprint.

Nickel-plated brass connection terminals allow for secure connections while resisting erosion. Sound Shield™ Technology assures additional mass in the heat sink and keeps every SM amplifier running cool while shielding audio from distortions that can be caused by heat.

Car audio deserves power that is clean, LOUD, and transcends your playback expectation with higher quality impact and sound. Your sound will perform with the highest playback quality while bringing out BIGGER POWER in every song.

Take down the streets with POWERED AUDIO through STREET MACHINE!
Learn more HERE about the entire line of STREET MACHINE amplifiers.

SONY ES Mobile Demo Days Car Toys Tulsa

TULSA, OK (07.18.24) – The SONY ES Mobile Demo Days dealer support events continued with Car Toys Tulsa on Saturday, July 13. In-vehicle demos of SONY‘s latest Mobile ES products in the Toyota Tacoma pickup were featured along with prizes and giveaways. In the store, the Car Toys Tulsa team members also offered special SONY Mobile ES sales promotions.

The Sony Tacoma pickup positioned by the Car Toys Tulsa tent as the Demo Days event kicked off.
The Sony demo started in the Tacoma dash.

When Richard Wong, SONY Area Representative, rolled into the Car Toys Tulsa parking lot from Dallas tents and tables with products were set for the day’s event to get underway on Saturday, July 13th.

“Having Richard and the SONY Tacoma demo truck parked in front of our store doing demos for customers through the day was terrific. We utilized a graphic SONY supplied for social media posts to let people know about coming to the event. Over two dozen people specifically responded to the event. In addition, normal store traffic through the day added to the people who sat in the Sony demo truck to experience the latest Sony products stated” Mark Adams, Car Toys Tulsa Store Manager, related.

Selection of Sony ES Mobile products was on display under the tent.
In the showroom, all could see the wide selection of Sony Mobile products offered by Car Toys Tulsa.
Sony products were spotlighted out front in the trunk of this Prius that was a Sony contest award winner created by Mark Adams-Car Toys Tulsa.
Sony awards are spotlighted in the Car Toys Tulsa showroom.

Continuing “The new SONY head unit in the dash, along with the bass coming from the custom sub enclosure, really put smiles on peoples faces when seated for the demo. During the day we booked some jobs for the new SONY receiver. When people came into the store they also saw our wide selection of products and got ideas for future purchases too. A big Thank You to SONY for their continuing support.”

In addition to the SONY Tacoma out front Adams arranged for a SONY contest winning Prius to be out front for attendees to check out to see even more options to upgrade their in-vehicle experience.

Visit www.cartoystulsa.com for more.

SQ Soundz Is Driving Professional Car And Home Audio In Barbados And The Caribbean Islands

BRIDGETOWN, BARBADOS (07.17.24) – From the SQ Sounds office in the Eastern Caribbean Island Tiffany and Triston Parris operate a business that facilitates product deliveries plus conducting sound-off competitions with a focus on DB Drag Racing events. Custom in-vehicle installation is also included in the company’s daily activities.

Team dB Drag Barbados ready for the Father’s World event.
dB Drag Top Dog competitors in the lanes at the Father’s World event.

SQ Soundz has been turning heads and pumping up the vibe in the car audio scene! They kicked off their summer tour with a bang at a Father’s Day event in Barbados, bringing the dB Drag formats to the island.

Partnering with Sound Clash Frideee and Bragging Rights, SQ Soundz and the dB Drag crew turned the “Father’s World” event into a sonic spectacle, collaborating with promoters to provide expert judging for the local Sound Clash format. It was an all-day party for the patrons, complete with car audio competitions, weightlifting challenges, the fastest tire change contests, and live performances by local guest artistes gearing up for the Crop Over carnival in August.

Annan Khan took home the top prizes for the Monsters Category at the Father’s World event in Barbados.
SQ Soundz prepping a competitor for MECA SPL – St. Thomas, USVI.

Then, it was wheels up as SQ Soundz jetted off to St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands. They were part of the official judging crew for the summer auto show hosted by VI International Auto. This show was a two-day pop-up extravaganza featuring the island’s unique 360 format and MECA’s SPL. It was a massive hit, with the car audio community showing up in full force.And there’s more to come!

Trophy in hand, smiles all around! Dussman and Knocker rocked the “Light Weight” category in the 360 format! – St. Thomas, USVI.
Keith aka Migraine dominated the competition with the highest MECA SPL score of the day – St. Thomas, USVI.

SQ Soundz has been receiving more invites to judge at other events across the Caribbean this year. They’ll be sharing what’s coming soon, so stay tuned like an amplifier for more high-dB action and competitions

.As Triston, the owner of SQ Soundz, said, “We’re all about bringing that Caribbean vibe, high-energy, and professionalism to every car audio event. Whether it’s Barbados, St. Thomas, or any other of the Caribbean islands, we’re here to make some noise, keep the party going, and continue making our mark in the audio competition world. Thank you to everyone for your support and trust.

“Linton Rabsatt, event promoter of VI International Auto, added, “VI International & Massive Vibes Entertainment would like to thank SQ Soundz and the entire judging team for their assistance and support in every way needed to make our annual audio shows a success

Subaru Makes SiriusXM Standard Across Entire Model Year 2025 Vehicle Lineup

NEW YORK, NY (07.18.24) – SiriusXM announced that Subaru has expanded the installation of SiriusXM to make the audio entertainment offering a standard feature beginning with its entire model year 2025 vehicle lineup in the United States.

“We are excited to continue expanding our relationship with Subaru by making SiriusXM a standard feature across their entire lineup of vehicles,” said Gail Berger, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Automotive Partnerships, SiriusXM. “Every Subaru customer will now have the opportunity to experience and enjoy SiriusXM’s extensive lineup of ad-free music channels, plus live sports, news, entertainment and comedy programming in their new vehicle.”

SiriusXM’s standard availability in Subaru follows the introduction of SiriusXM with 360L to Subaru’s vehicle lineup earlier this year. SiriusXM with 360L combines satellite and streaming content delivery into a single, cohesive in-vehicle entertainment experience, which provides drivers and their passengers with more content, better discovery, and a more personalized listening experience. For more information about SiriusXM with 360L in Subaru, click here

Newly purchased or leased Subaru vehicles in the United States receive a four-month trial subscription to SiriusXM that delivers SiriusXM’s full lineup of varied content, plus access at home and on the go through the SiriusXM app on connected devices and speakers. 

For more information on all the programming that SiriusXM offers, and all the ways subscribers can listen, visit SiriusXM.com.

The Full Tilt Riders MC Bike Show And Audio Competition Rolled July 13th

LAKEWOOD, WA (07.17.24) – On the sunny Saturday motorcycle enthusiasts in northern Oregon and southern Washington rolled into the Streetscenes Moto Garage Center in Lakewood WA. Store owner Kevin Lamar organized the event. Bikers started arriving early to register and soon the area surrounding his store was filled with over 50 bikes and over 100 bikers and enthusiasts. A bike wash was also set up to benefit a local charity.

The area out front of the Streetscenes Moto location began to fill up early.

“Feeling the energy from all at the event was special. Our shop has been open for 10 years now and the motorcycle category has grown so much. We are planning additional events this summer as we strive to grow the area biker community even more. Having Mark on site from PRM will help us extend our visibility even more” Lamar stated.

Before noon the area was filled with bikes and enthusiasts.
PRM’s Mark Giovannetti (R) and Jerry Lamm-Rainier Audio Authority owner flank Kevin Lamar the owner of Streetscenes.
Kevin Lamar pictured out front of the Streetscenes store with the showroom on the right….spotlighting Diamond Audio.

This past Saturday, Mark Giovanetti, the Diamond Audio Northwest representative, was on site the Full Tilt MC Bike Show and Audio Competition and Bike Wash supporting the firm’s Diamond Audio dealer.

Mark Giovannetti (L) and Jerry Lamm flank Dakota Hall who designed and created the Rainier Audio Authority first place prize winner in the Audio Lightweight Class.
A young bike enthusiast is pictured on his decked out bike and Jasmine, who was on site doing bike washes for a local charity, is all smiles and decked with body art.

Giovannetti related “The sunny day drew a great turnout of over 100 people and 50 bikes attending the event. Kevin’s shop is a strong supporter of the Diamond Audio motorcycle products category and he really organized a super event for area bikers. In addition Jerry Lamm, from nearby Rainier Audio Authority, made the 100 mile trip up from Rainier OR to compete with his new shop bike and took home first prize in the Audio Lightweight Class for the best overall sound. Jerry’s installation tech Dakota Hall made the trip and was absolutely thrilled with the first place prize award.”

Matt Daigle Joins SEMA Government Affairs as Director, Communications

DIAMOND BAR, CA (07.17.24) – Matt Daigle has joined the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) as Director, Communications for Public and Government Affairs, based in Washington, D.C.

Daigle is a seasoned communicator with more than 20 years of experience and leadership in advocacy and member communications. He has served on Capitol Hill, in a consulting company, and in-house at multiple professional associations.

“We’re very excited to have Matt join SEMA’s D.C. team. He brings a wealth of experience in media relations and advocacy communications,” said Karen Bailey-Chapman, SEMA Senior Vice President of Public and Government Affairs. “Matt’s expertise will help bolster SEMA and PRI’s brand in Washington, D.C., and state capitols and better elevate the important issues we advocate for on behalf of our industry every day.”

Daigle joins SEMA from the American Hospital Association where, as Director of Advocacy and Member Communications, he collaborated with the policy, federal government relations, and legal departments on developing public- and member-facing messaging reflecting the goals and mission of the association for hospitals and health systems, Congress, government agencies, and the public.

In his new role, Daigle coordinates communications strategies and executions with SEMA’s marketing, councils, membership, political action committees (PACs), and other internal teams. He supports the development and execution of public relations that help shape the views of voters and opinion leaders about the automotive aftermarket industry, its products, and its leadership in the public policy arena.

“I’m excited to join SEMA at such a pivotal time for the automotive aftermarket,” said Daigle. “Our members make a tremendous contribution to the American economy, and I’m looking forward to sharing their accomplishments and driving positive change for the industry.”

A native of South Orleans, Mass., Daigle received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Marist College and a Master of Science degree in Journalism from Northwestern University.

Visit www.sema.org for more.

PowerBass Now Shipping BT-500 SOUND TUBE Portable Bluetooth Speaker

ONTARIO, CA (07.17.24) – What better way to enjoy your favorite tunes when you are not in your car than with our new BT-500 Portable Bluetooth Speaker. This portable speaker has a built in 3600 mAh Li-ion battery for hours of play while at the beach, camping, at home, or even at a party! Recharge the unit with the supplied USB charge cord and let the music play!

Packed with great features such as Bluetooth, USB-A input ,and Hands-Free calling, selectable custom sound modes, and user selectable RGB Lighting Effects!

The BT-500 also comes equipped with TWS pairing for True Wireless Stereo playback. Connect 2 separate BT-500 Sound Tubes together for an immersive stereo sound experience or share your tunes with a friend while out on a hike, the adventures never have to end with your PowerBass Sound Tube!

The BT-500 PowerBass Sound Tube is Bluetooth ready and will pair with most Bluetooth devices such as iPhone, iPod, android and the likes and provides a handsfree microphone so you can also take calls while enjoying some tunes. Your BT-500 can also charge your mobile device using the USB-A output to plug in and charge while you have party Mode ON!

Visit powerbassusa.com for more.