Author: 12VoltNews

Fuel Required And Team Nutz Driving Business

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MT LEBANON, PA (07.08.24) Business partners Fuel Required and Team Nutz were on site at the 27th Annual Classic Car Show and Street Festival in Mt Lebanon on Sunday July 7h under a sunny sky. Enthusiasts started arrivng early and there was a stong crowd before noon. Classic and show cars lined the main street for all to check out. Food, vendors and live music added to the day’s enjoyment for all. The first 150 cars on display received dash plaques. Additional awards were presented to the top 60 cars.

Main Street in downtown MT Lebanon was busy busy on Sunday.
The classic car show filled areas downtown.

Team Nutz is a proactive 12volt retailer based in Pittsburg that also markets other automotive products. Sister company Fuel Required offers sales, service and consignment services for classic automobiles.

Ed Nuttall offered for Team Nutz “The Classic Car Show was a great opportunity for our retail store to connect with a large crowd of people interested in cars. The crowd had a lot of families who spent their time checking out all the vehicles. When they checked out the new Team Nutz Jeep and Excursion they experienced the wide variety of upgrades available for their rides.The kids were really drawn to the new Jeep and lots of folks were snapping images with the Team Nutz Jeep.”

The new Team Nutz Jeep stood out at the event.

Many attendees spent time checking out all of the new Team Nutz Jeep upgrades.

At the event there were Team Nutz stickers for attendees to pick up in addition to cards with special offers at the store. Nina and Ed Nuttall were on site along with Team Nutz crew member Rob Gratton.

Team Nutz gave out hundreds of stickers during the event.
Custom cards and special offers will continue to drive business after the event.

The new Team Nutz Jeep was unveiled at the recent Bantam Jeep Featival a month ago. Since that time it has been drawing attention out front on the busy in front of the Team Nutz location and every time it hits the streets.

Ed Nuttall pictured between the new Team Nutz Jeep and Excursion vehicles at the event.

For more see teamnutz.com

Race Sport Lighting Introduces NOVAlm Series LED Kits for Off-Road Enthusiasts

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RINGWOOD IL (07.08.24) Race Sport Lighting, a leader in advanced automotive lighting solutions, is proud to announce the launch of the NOVAlm Series LED Kits, designed specifically for off-road enthusiasts seeking superior high performance, rugged durability, and putting the light where they need it on the trails. Also known as the NOVA-Lumen, this kit defies the lumen output of all other light bulbs on the market.

The NOVAlm Series LED Kits represent the pinnacle of LED lighting technology, combining cutting-edge engineering with the rugged reliability required for off-road adventures. These LED kits are engineered to deliver exceptional brightness, enhanced visibility, and long-lasting durability, ensuring that off-road enthusiasts can tackle the toughest terrains with confidence.

Key Features of the NOVAlm Series LED Kits:

Unmatched Brightness: Utilizing the latest in LED technology, the NOVAlm Series provides unparalleled brightness, illuminating the path ahead with a crisp, clear light that mimics natural daylight. The NOVAlm measured up to 21,640lx per kit, which is more than most high-power light bars used off-road.
Robust Durability: Built to withstand the harshest conditions, these LED kits feature a rugged, waterproof design that can endure mud, water, and extreme temperatures. This kit is equipped with a 3-year manufacturer warranty for years of enjoyment.
Easy Installation: The NOVAlm Series LED Kits are designed for easy installation, allowing off-road enthusiasts to quickly upgrade their vehicles and hit the trails without delay. The main feature that installers will love is the waterproof BNC between the bulb and driver that will allow for easy installation on vehicles with seal caps behind the bulbs.
Energy Efficiency: With low power consumption and a long lifespan, these LED kits are not only powerful but also energy efficiently designed. Never has a bulb with so high of a lumen output ever run so efficiently, measuring temperatures at the base and tower body of less than 120 degrees.


“We are thrilled to bring the NOVAlm Series LED Kits to the off-road enthusiast community,” said Steven Jergensen, President of Race Sport Lighting. “These LED kits are a game-changer for off-road enthusiasts who demand the best in LED high performance and reliability. Having the ability for your High beam or Fog Light forward driving bulbs to put out Lux outputs that match your off-road lighting bars and auxiliary lights adds another dimension of projection lighting where the driver most needs the lighting in front of them.”

Race Sport Lighting has a long-standing reputation for innovation and quality in the automotive lighting industry. The introduction of the NOVAlm Series LED Kits underscores the company’s commitment to providing top-of-the-line products that meet the evolving needs of their customers. It is important to note that this high-power LED kit is made and designed only to go in low beams in lenses in off-road only vehicles, and never in on-road vehicles. If installed in on-road vehicles, only install inside fog lamps or high beam applications that can be switched on and off to be used only when the driver needs them.

For more information about the NOVAlm Series LED Kits and other products from Race Sport Lighting, please visit www.racesportinc.com.

The Vintage Air Road Tour Rolled Into The KICKER International HQ July 2nd

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STILLWATER, USA (July 5,2024)– KICKER® played host to the Vintage Air® Road Tour at its international headquarters on Tuesday, July 2.

Members of the tour entering the KICKER HQ lobby

The KICKER parking lot was teeming with more than 80 custom cars, trucks and hot rods making their way from San Antonio, TX to Des Moines, IA for Vintage Air’s annual summer tour of the country. As two leading pioneers in the aftermarket automotive industry, KICKER was proud to team with Vintage Air so consumers, professionals and hobbyists could learn how to have all their in-car climate and audio needs met and exceeded.

A group of the Vintage Air Road Tour rides.
These Vintage Air Road Tour vehicles are projects in the works.

The Vintage Air vehicles, from street rods to trucks to custom classics, arrived in the morning on Tuesday. They were on display till the afternoon when the Tour continued its northward journey, with a destination of Goodguys Heartland Nationals in Des Moines on July 5. The KICKER south parking lot was dedicated to showcasing these custom vehicles sporting the latest innovation and technology from Vintage Air.

Tour members check out displays in the show area.

The KICKER Visitors Center and Museum were also open to the public. This presented a great opportunity to learn about the latest aftermarket solutions for any vehicle, covering the two most important factors when it comes to a vehicle’s cabin: air and sound!

Tour members check out KICKER’s square woofer history.

For more details, readers can visit vintageair.com. For those who could not come see these incredible custom cars in-person at KICKER HQ they can visit KICKER’s social media platforms for photos, videos and interviews of the tour.

KICKER Performance Audio products, a division of Stillwater Designs and Audio, Inc.®, are available for the mobile and home audio aftermarket at authorized retailers worldwide, and also as Original Equipment for boat and automobile manufacturers. Consumers seeking more information on KICKER or Livin’ Loud® may call the Consumer Information Line at 1-800-256-5425 or visit the brand website at http://www.kicker.com. Consumers can follow KICKER socially at Facebook.com/kickeraudio, X.com/kickeraudio, Instagram.com/kickeraudio, or Pinterest.com/kickeraudio, and use the hashtags #kickeraudio and #livinloud.

Alpine Returns to New Jersey Jeep® Invasion as the Official Audio Sponsor

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Auburn Hills, MI (07.05.24) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”) announced that they will return to the 2024 New Jersey Jeep® Invasion as the Official Audio Sponsor.

“Alpine is excited to return to New Jersey Jeep® Invasion as the Official Audio Sponsor,” said Gregg Thomas, Director of National Sales for the Alpine Brand Division at Alps Alpine North America, Inc. “Our reputation in the Jeep® community speaks for itself as we continue to be the number one audio brand that offers premium dash and sound solutions designed specifically for the Jeep® Wrangler and Jeep® Gladiator customer.”

Alpine will have a booth during the vendor show from Friday, July 12 to Sunday, July 14 where they will offer special, event-only pricing on all products. As part of their continued investment, Alpine will increase their booth presence by 2000 square feet to showcase more exciting solutions designed uniquely for the Jeep® driver.

In addition to the vendor booth, Alpine will also have an installation bay, powered by Tampa-based Alpine Authorized Retailer Soundwaves, so customers can drive home with their Alpine purchase installed. The installation space will be located directly next to the Alpine booth space in Install Alley.

Two Alpine 2018 Jeep® Wrangler demo vehicles will be on-site, featuring the i509-WRA-JL, a 9-inch Weather-Resistant Digital Media Receiver with Hi-Res Audio Playback. The unit was intentionally designed with the Jeep® driver in mind to visually emulate the design identity of the Jeep® interior and retain the features Jeep® drivers use the most. Other features, like wireless and wired Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, Hi-Resolution Playback (96kHz/ 24Bit), and one of the industry-first SiriusXM-Ready® head units enhanced with 360L and Hi-Res music streaming with TIDAL, make this the ultimate upgrade for the Jeep® driver.

Alpine will have a strong presence in Wildwood as in this image from a previous year.

A premium Dash Camera DVR-C320R with built-in drive assist and impact recording will also be installed to showcase the head unit pairing capabilities of the i509-WRA-JL. An Alpine PSS-24WRA sound system, with front 6.5” component speakers, 6.5” rear custom soundbar replacement speakers, 8” compact powered subwoofer, and 4-channel amplifier will be featured for in-vehicle sound upgrade demonstrations as well as an Alpine Weather-Resistant PSS-SX01 Sound System mounted to the roll bars to demonstrate exterior sound upgrade opportunities.

Alpine’s 2015 Jeep® Wrangler will also be on-site with similar Jeep®-specific solutions designed for older Jeep® Wranglers, including the i509-WRA-JK, DVR-C320R, PSS-22WRA Weather-Resistant Sound System, PSS-SX01, and HCE-TCAM1-WRA Spare Tire Rear-View Camera and Light System.

All event visitors are encouraged to visit the Alpine booth and take advantage of the special, event-only deals and on-site installation services during the event.

Jeep® is a registered trademark of Stellantis NV

Alps Alpine Co., Ltd. (“Alpine”) is an automotive electronics manufacturer that provides consumers and leading auto makers with audio, video, navigation, and driver assistance products. The company specializes in system integration solutions with innovative vehicle entertainment and information technologies. Alpine’s R&D and manufacturing facilities in Japan, China, Europe, and North America ensure that all products address the real-world requirements of drivers in each market. The company is committed to developing safe, comfortable, and eco-friendly automotive electronics products. For information about Alpine’s aftermarket products, visit www.alpine-usa.com or follow AlpineUSA on social media channels like Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and Roblox.

Mobile Solutions Announces MasterTechAdvanced Door Panel Fabrication Training

Posted on by in Industry News.

Scheduled August 9-12 at Mobile Solutions HQ in Tempe, Ariz., Attendees Will Learn From the Best in the Business, Including Renowned Automotive Designer and Master Fabricator, Tom Miller

Tempe, Ariz., July 5, 2024 – 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.

About Mobile Solutions

Mobile Solutions USA is an innovation-driven company creating tools and delivering training that enable custom automotive electronics, audio and interior installations progress with a level of efficiency not otherwise efficiently achieved in the aftermarket automotive business. With the patented Smart Templates™ brand of design tools and many other process-driven innovations, Mobile Solutions USA serves the aftermarket automotive technician, fabricator and retail store community through direct sales and distributors around the globe.

The July 4th 2024 Celebration Marks The 248th Anniversary Of Independence Day

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12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (07.03.24) – Thursday, July 4th, marks the celebration of Independence Day 248 across the U.S. Many businesses are enjoying a 4-Day 4th of July weekend by taking off Friday the 5th along with Thursday July 4th.

July 4th 2024 is seeing a return to somewhat normal as the COVID 19 Pandemic fades further in the rear view mirror. That said, the landscape across the US and around the world is far from normal. This year’s US President’s election turmoil fills the news, inflation continues running high and air travel is a nightmare in many cases. Online sales continue to take away from the brick and mortar marketplace. In-person events have returned but everyday life is far from normal.

On the 12volt industry side store traffic remains light as many consumers make decisions with allocating their disposable income. Uneasiness with regard to price increases and inventory issues persist. With so many options visibility for 12volt products is not getting through to consumers. We must continue to work to make music fun again!

The business year is divided into 4 quarters….much like a football game. The first quarter of 2024 was OK for many 12volt companies. As the second quarter came to a close the price of gas has declined but mounting social issues cloud the future. Reports are business has definitely slowed. Worldwide unrest adds to the cloudy future.

Now, as the second half of 2024 gets underway, all businesses must evaluate their game plans and make appropriate adjustments. Importantly, businesses must adjust their shoulder pads and tighten the chin straps on their helmets. Now, as the clock for the second half of 2024 has started, all businesses must keep their eye on the ball, work their game plans and be prepared to quickly make necessary adjustments. Importantly brick and mortar retailers must work to create excitement in their market to drive in-store traffic and business.

The 12voltSTP Tool can be utilized by members of the 12volt industry to showcase positives for their brand and activities. Snap..Txt..PRESTO. Snap an Image and Txt the image to 318 469 2526. PRESTO..your company could be in the news. As an industry let’s utilize the 12voltSTP Tool and be… ’Jammin’ N July’.

From the 12volt Central Studios we will continue to focus on the positives and encourage all to work to ‘Get Our Shine On’ as an industry.

KICKER Expanded The Company’s Support For SkillsUSA in 2024

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ATLANTA, GA (07.03.24) – As part of KICKER’s sponsorship of the event, KICKER Tech Force manager Aaron Malin and Tech Force trainer Jacob Luckey traveled to Atlanta and judged competitions in the SkillsUSA Championships June 24-28 during SkillsUSA’s 60th annual National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta.

Malin related “This was the third SkillsUSA national competition that KICKER has attended in Atlanta and provided a sponsorship. In 2023 KICKER had a total of 11 competitors from all over the country. This year, with local and Oklahoma state competitions, we had even more. We would certainly like to see that growth continue as we plan for 2025.”

KICKER had additional support at the SkillsUSA event with area participation. Scott Dilbeck from Sky High Car Audio was in the house and judged radio installation sessions. Industry veteran Bytan Gary was able to give a hand and that worked out very well. James Simpson, with Atlanta-based Vickers AV and Sound Sensations, was also lending a hand. KICKER expanded their presence at this years event. Several positive comments about those upgrades were given to Malin.

Kelley Vickers, Vickers AV and Sound Sensations, related “James Simpson, a Vickers AV Sales Representative, volunteered and judged installation competitions at SkillsUSA, supported KICKER and aided Randy Goodwin representing DB Drive. The event boasted an excellent turnout, reflecting the growing interest and enthusiasm in the industry. Simpson’s dedication and expertise were instrumental in the success of the event, making the experience both valuable and rewarding for all participants.

Students working at one of the testing stations

Erin Smith, a competitor from last year, came in from Savannah Technical College to paticipate in the KICKER booth. Smith works now part time at the college in the automotive aftermarket program and plans to do more on the mobile electronics area in the near future.

The Mobile-Electronics Installation category tests competitors’ abilities to perform standard installation practices used by certified, professional mobile-electronics installers. These skills have been established through the certification objectives and items created for the Basic MECP certification by the Consumer Electronics Association.

Continuing Malin offered “The KICKER Tech Force intends to continue our support of SkillsUSA in Oklahoma and at the national competition in 2025. We are actively encouraging other states to join the competition and increase the number of young men and women interested in joining the 12volt industry. We hear from retailers on a regular basis that they cannot find qualified people to hire.The 12-volt industry needs more sharp-minded employees to bring new ideas to the table and SkillsUSA can provide a pathway.”

The event in Atlanta included a written examination covering the Basic MECP certification, a professional interview and five hands-on applications that spotlighted taking electrical measurements, installing consumer-electronics equipment, soldering and working with relay circuits plus troubleshooting electronic circuitry.

KICKER donated over $5,000 in prizes to the winners of the 12-volt competitions.

Winners at the SkillsUSA awards ceremony are pictured in the stands in this image from the SkillsUSA Instagram account.

“I would like to encourage other 12-volt industry leaders and manufacturers to get involved with SkillsUSA at their local, state and national level. As an industry, we need those young men and women to join us in the very exciting and quickly evolving industry. Not only do students receive technical skills they learn important communication skills. It is terrific when I see that light bulb light up when a student grasps the idea” Malin concluded.

Visit Kicker.com and SkillsUSA.org for more

For information about Skills USA events contact Chris Jack cnjacklausd@aol.com

Compustar Canada: Now Open to Serve and Support Canadian Customers

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SASKATOON, SK, (JULY 3, 2024) – Firstech, LLC., makers of Compustar, DroneMobile, and Momento, is announcing the opening of direct operations in Canada through Compustar Canada. This move ensures streamlined sales, shipping, marketing, and warranty services specifically for Canadian customers.

Bryan Sack
President Compustar Canada

Bryan Sack, a 12-volt industry veteran of 30+ years, has accepted the role of President of Compustar Canada. The company’s headquarters, located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, is set to enhance customer experience across the region. Canadian customers can now access all Firstech products – Compustar remote start and security systems, DroneMobile telematics, Momento dash cameras, and the entire suite of iDatalink integration solutions.

“We are thrilled to start a new chapter for Compustar in Canada to extend the 20+ years of success the brand has had in our country,” shares Bryan Sack. “Expect hassle-free warranty, transparent pricing control, and increased marketing support tailored to the Canadian market’s growing needs.”

Additionally, the company has announced the upcoming launch of an online dealer portal, myFirstech.ca, in the fall of 2024. This portal will allow dealers to place and manage orders, activate DroneMobile systems, and earn recurring rewards on DroneMobile activations. It represents a significant step towards providing comprehensive support and efficiency improvements for Canadian dealers.

For more information or to start a Compustar Canada account, Canadian dealers are encouraged to email orders@myfirstech.ca.

Webpage: https://www.firstechllc.com/compustar-canada-now-open-to-serve-and-support-canadian-customers/

KICKER® to Host Vintage Air® Road Tour at International Headquarters

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STILLWATER, USA (July 2,2024)- KICKER® will play host to the Vintage Air® Road Tour at its international headquarters on Tuesday, July 2.

As seen in this image of a previous Car Show, the KICKER International HQ is the ideal venue to host the 2024 Vintage Air Road Tour in Stillwater OK.

The KICKER parking lot will be teeming with more than 80 custom cars, trucks and hot rods making their way from San Antonio, Texas to Des Moines, Iowa for Vintage Air’s annual summer tour of the country. As two leading pioneers in the aftermarket automotive industry, KICKER is proud to team with Vintage Air so consumers, professionals and hobbyists can learn how to have all their in-car climate and audio needs met and exceeded.

The Vintage Air vehicles, from street rods to trucks to custom classics, will arrive in the morning. They will be on display till the afternoon when the Tour continues its northward journey, with a destination of Goodguys Heartland Nationals in Des Moines on July 5. The south parking lot will be dedicated to showcasing these custom vehicles sporting the latest innovation and technology from Vintage Air, while the KICKER Visitors Center and Museum will also be open to the public. This presents a great opportunity to learn about the latest aftermarket solutions for any vehicle, covering the two most important factors when it comes to a vehicle’s cabin: air and sound!

For more details, readers can visit vintageair.com, and those who can’t come see these incredible custom cars in-person at KICKER HQ can visit KICKER’s social media platforms for photos, videos and interviews of the tour.

KICKER Performance Audio products, a division of Stillwater Designs and Audio, Inc.®, are available for the mobile and home audio aftermarket at authorized retailers worldwide, and also as Original Equipment for boat and automobile manufacturers. Consumers seeking more information on KICKER or Livin’ Loud® may call the Consumer Information Line at 1-800-256-5425 or visit the brand website at www.kicker.com. Consumers can follow KICKER socially at Facebook.com/kickeraudio, X.com/kickeraudio, Instagram.com/kickeraudio, or Pinterest.com/kickeraudio, and use the hashtags #kickeraudio and #livinloud.

Vintage Air is a registered trademark of Vintage Air, LLC

Alpine to Exhibit at the 2024 X Takeover Show as the Official Audio Sponsor

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Auburn Hills, Mich. (July 2, 2024) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”) will exhibit at the 2024 X Takeover show at the Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo, CA from Saturday, July 27 – Sunday, July 28 as the official audio sponsor.

“Alpine is proud to be the official audio sponsor for the 2024 X Takeover show,” said Gregg Thomas, Director of National Sales for the Alpine Brand Division at Alps Alpine North America, Inc. “As the industry’s first manufacturer to offer a complete, plug-and-play audio upgrade for Tesla, we’re excited to showcase the precise sound upgrade Tesla owners can achieve with our system.”

Alpine will have a booth in the “The Fields” with a 2022 Tesla Model Y demonstrating the precision sound performance of the industry’s first complete sound system upgrade designed to fit the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y.

Each system includes an 11-speaker (or 13, for factory premium audio systems) upgrade designed to easily replace the front, rear, and center dash Tesla factory speakers with Hi-Resolution certified speakers from Alpine’s “Blue Series” speaker line. The package also includes a powerful 10” subwoofer and 12-Channel Premium Digital Sound Processor and ultra-efficient EV-optimized Amplifier that’s tuned for the unique cabin environment for the Tesla.

Alpine’s sales and marketing staff members will be available during the event to answer product questions and provide vehicle demonstrations. Vacaville-based Alpine Authorized Retailer, Audio Xperts, will also be on-site with Tesla systems available at special, event-only deals.

X Takeover, formerly known as Tesla Takeover, is the world’s largest Tesla community event that features activities, influential speakers in the EV industry, and over 60 exhibitors that sell unique accessories, services, and products for Tesla. For more information, or to register for the event, visit https://www.xtakeover.com/.

Alps Alpine Co., Ltd. (“Alpine”) is an automotive electronics manufacturer that provides consumers and leading auto makers with audio, video, navigation, and driver assistance products. The company specializes in system integration solutions with innovative vehicle entertainment and information technologies. Alpine’s R&D and manufacturing facilities in Japan, China, Europe, and North America ensure that all products address the real-world requirements of drivers in each market. The company is committed to developing safe, comfortable, and eco-friendly automotive electronics products. For information about Alpine’s aftermarket products, visit www.alpine-usa.com or follow AlpineUSA on social media channels like Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and Roblox.