DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.11.23) – The 2023 SEMA Scholarship application period for students preparing for careers in the automotive or performance parts industries is now open and will run through March 1. Interested applicants can review and complete the scholarship application at www.sema.org/scholarships.
The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund offers financial assistance of up to $5,000 to foster future leaders and innovators in the automotive aftermarket industry. A loan forgiveness component is also available to employees that work for SEMA-member companies who have completed and are currently paying off a loan for a program of study at an accredited university, college or vocational/technical school within the United States.
“Education can be expensive, but that shouldn’t limit students from getting ahead in their careers,” said Pamela Brown-Matthis, SEMA director of education. “There are so many career options in the automotive aftermarket, and it’s a thriving industry to be in. We encourage students who have a passion for cars a to apply for a SEMA scholarship so that we can help jump-start their careers.”
The annual scholarship program is a cornerstone of SEMA’s efforts to support career development and access in the automotive industry. Scholarship winners will have the opportunity to attend the 2023 SEMA Show, providing unparalleled networking and education opportunities at the world’s largest trade show for the automotive aftermarket.
Applicants must be U.S. citizens 18 years or older and demonstrate a passion for automotive hobbies and careers. Scholarships are available in a variety of categories, including but not limited to, accounting, sales, marketing and engineering.
Eligible students and SEMA-member company employees can apply until March 1 at www.sema.org/scholarships.
POMPANO BEACH, FL (01.10.23) – RDV Automotive Technology the go to company for Wireless CarPlay integration is proud to announce the release of two new Wireless CarPlay / Wireless Android Auto Interfaces for Mercedes Benz and BMW. These new products are in stock and available to ship.
Rich De Sclafani pictured in his office in Pompano Beach, FL with the new RDV products.
Rich De Sclafani the owner of RDV said about the new products being released. “I am very excited to continue to bring new products to market. I have worked with these vehicles and infotainment systems since they were released back in 2007 and 2004 so I know them very well. We now cover well over 10 years of the Mercedes vehicle line (2007-2019) and over 15 years of the BMW vehicle line (2004-2019).”
CP1-NTG4: Mercedes Benz C CLASS (2007-2011), E CLASS (2010-2012), GLK (2010-2012). To view the CP1-NTG4 product page, click here.
CP1-CCC: BMW: 1 Series (2004-2009), 3 Series (2006-2009), 5 Series (2004-2010), 6 Series (2004-2010), X5 (2007-2009), x6 (2008-2009). To view the CP1-CCC product page, click here.
LAS VEGAS, NV (01.10.23) – HARMAN, a premier connected technologies company for automotive, consumer and enterprise markets made a strong return to CES 2023 with the announcement of several new aftermarket auto products launches from JBL and Infinity.
The Infinity Kappa Perfect Amplifier and Speaker products were launched as HARMAN announced its new partnership with Metra Electronics. This new product line enables the pairing of Infinity Kappa Perfect PowerSports Amplifiers and Speakers with Metra Electronics’ Saddle Tramp DSP Processor system integration and installation equipment for the Harley Davidson motorcycle market.
“The new Infinity Kappa Perfect system on the Harley Davidson in the booth was a surprise to attendees in the booth. All were really very impressed when the heard the system too. The Infinity Saddle Tramp System no longer requires an installer to flash the HD radio. We did it all for you” Shawn Spedding, Director of Sales, Mobile Audio Aftermarket related.
The kits consist of 2 speaker, 4 speaker, and 6 speaker audio systems in addition to accessory lower fairing installation kits for twin-cooled and non-twin-cooled applications. All products feature Infinity’s signature sound and cutting-edge technology at affordable prices. The amplifiers and speakers, once paired with Saddle Tramp’s direct fit brackets and DSP, are tuned by HARMAN Acoustic Sound Engineers to create a best-in-class audio performance and easy installation. The DSP flattens the factory audio settings through its head unit CAN connection.
The Harley in the JBL infinity booth showcased the Infinity Kappa Perfect PowerSports Amplifier and Speaker System.
Detailed work instructions make the job simple to install and provide a factory looking result which installers are proud of, and end consumers can do on their own. The new Infinity Motorcycle kits will begin shipping in April with options ranging from $999.95 – $2499.95.
MIDLAND, MI (01.10.23) – A classic automobile collection donated by a generous couple to Northwood University fetched more than $2.3 million during an auction Friday, Jan. 6, in Florida.
Michael and Dianne Morey, of Mount Pleasant, Michigan, pledged 35 vehicles from their automotive collection, and the cars were auctioned off at Mecum Auctions in Kissimmee, Florida. The auction raised over $2,371,000 to support Northwood University and The Northwood Idea.
Michael Morey is pictured with a portion of the Morey Collection.
“Mike and Dianne’s incredible gift will be forever remembered by Northwood University,” stated Northwood President Kent MacDonald. “We have retained a 1958 Chevrolet Corvette to display on campus as a reminder of the Morey’s generosity and American innovation.”
In 1983, the Moreys believed they could build a wood chipper better than anyone else. Mike left his job, invested in a small workshop, and with six employees and a small operating budget, built the Model 100 Brush Bandit, a 12-inch capacity disc-style chipper. Based on the success of the Brush Bandit, Bandit Industries was created, and Dianne actively joined the company.
Bandit designed and launched the world’s first self-propelled track whole tree chipper in 1990 and continues to lead this industry segment. Bandit operates a network of more than 180 dealer locations worldwide, and it currently has 725 employees. In 2018, the Moreys sold the company to their trusted employees, rather than accepting two offers to sell from private firms.
“The Moreys are stellar examples of how ingenuity, persistence and dedication pave the way for success in a free-market society,” stated Justin Marshall, chief development and engagement officer for Northwood University. “Each car the Morey family donated was part of their family story, and the story now evolves with Northwood University inspiring the dreams of young entrepreneurs from throughout the world.”
At the end of Friday’s auction, Mecum Auctions announced that two of the Morey vehicles were the top two automotive sales of the day. The 1967 Shelby GT500 Fastback sold for $330,000, and the 1970 Plymouth Hemi Cuda sold for $275,000. The surprise of the day was a 1981 Teledyne Continental Cheetah, selling for $65,000 (which was well beyond its appraised value).
Northwood University will utilize up to $1 million of the cash proceeds to enhance the campus experience. The remaining proceeds will be used to build the university’s endowment to create new scholarship opportunities for Northwood students.
The Moreys previously noted they are pleased their classic car collection will help support young men and women who want to work hard, build something of their own, and positively influence the communities they call home.
“Northwood University is a special place, filled with wonderful students, and we are thrilled to support their mission,” they stated.
Also known as America’s Free Enterprise University, Northwood University’s mission is to create future leaders of global economic and social progress. If you’re interested in supporting this effort, please visit www.northwood.edu/advancement/give.
LOVELAND, CO (01.09.23) – The KICKER AMA ArenaCross Series, expanded to 13 cities, rolled at the Budweiser Events Center in Loveland CO on Friday. January 6th.
The Budweiser Events Center was packed all around the track.
“It was cold outside but inside the action on the track was red hot and the attendees were Livin’Loud. We had a display set up in the lobby area and virtually everyone who entered the Budweiser Events Center had to pass by the KICKER setup. We had a selection of KICKER products for all to see. For over 2 hours we were talking to members of the crowd about KICKER. Colorado is truck country so the KICKER L7T under seat drew a lot of attention as did the Harley products and woofers. Powersports in strong in the Rockies so the KICKER PowerBar grabbed attention too. Marine is a growing category in the area along with life style products.” Lorin Morrell-Maddog-Media, who orchestrates the KICKER AMA ArenaCross Series events, related.
A wide selection of Kicker products were set early in the lobby for fans to check out as entered the Events Center.
Riders flying high on the track.
The Budweiser Events Center was built as a hockey arena that holds about 7000 people. For the ArenaCross event the stands were pushed back a bit to set up the fairly short, but well designed track, for riders. Over 100 riders were flying high and navigating the tight turns through the evening from 7:30 until well after 9PM.
“This year the doors opened earlier and there was a pit party trackside before the racing action that lasted from about 5:30 til 6:30. Fans had a chance to talk with riders and talk with other motor sports enthusiasts” Morrell added.
In addition to the action on the track T-shirt were fired into the crowd during race breaks and track maintenance periods. An air cannon fired wrapped KICKER T’s into the crowd. A special T had a certificate wrapped inside for a KICKER BullFrog to be picked up at the KICKER display in the lobby. Crowd members also participated in flag-waving sessions for a chance to win a KICKER BullFrog.
Riders were flying high on the track and Kicker was Livin’ Loud throughout the venue.
Concluding Morrell added “The KICKER AMA ArenaCross got off to a great start this season with events in Georgia and New York in November 2022. Loveland was very well attended and the next stop is in Prescott AZ on Friday, January 14th. We look for a great turnout there as well. The KICKER AMA ArenaCross is Livin’Loud in 2023.”
TEMPE, AZ (01.09.23) – Mobile Solutions announced it has secured an agreement with Importel LTD to represent and distribute its products throughout Canada. Importel will carry and ship the complete line of Mobile Solutions products including templates, production tooling and accessories. Mobile Solutions previously was represented by a distributor in Western Canada and following that distributor’s acquisition by Importel, the agreement gives Mobile Solutions a stronger footprint in eastern Canada as well.
“The retailers and fabrication professionals of Canada have always been great supporters of Mobile Solutions and are a large part of our success,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder and CEO of Mobile Solutions. “By partnering with Importel, with locations in Alberta and Ontario, we are able to supply them with top-quality products, delivered quickly and efficiently.”
“Importel Ltd. Is very excited to be the exclusive distributor for Mobile Solutions products in Canada,” said Geoff Theoret, operations manager at Importel West. “We are proud to add Bryan Schmitt’s industry leading products from the Mobile Solutions brand to our vast offerings of premium products found at importel.com. We look forward to helping promote the MasterTech Expo industry training event in Mesa, Ariz., March 5th– 8th, to our Canadian dealer partners.”
Retailers in Canada can purchase Mobile Solutions products by placing an order at importel.com. For more information on Mobile Solutions, please visit mobilesolutions-usa.com. To attend the MasterTech Expo, sign up at mastertechexpo.com.
FULLERTON, CA (01.09.2023) – Vision Tech America, Inc., leading vehicle security and safety product manufacturer of backup cameras, dash cams, parking sensors, blind-spot detectors, and monitoring devices, is pleased to announce 2022 BOYO TROPHY AWARD Winners. Each year, awards are presented to the sales representatives based on their sales performance and quality of service.
Joe Palilla (R), Potomac Electronics Sales, is pictured with his Distinguished Sales Rep of the Year 2022 Award. DK Chung owner presented the award.
The Distinguished Sales Rep of the Year 2022 award was presented to Joe Palilla of Potomac Electronics Sales for the four years in a row.
Most Outstanding Sales Rep of the year 2022 awards were presented to Jeff Oliver of J&S Marketing, Dave Gill of SMS, Inc., and John Tatro of Norcal Sales & Marketing.
Congratulations to all award recipients. 2022 was a great year, outperforming the previous year, and we look forward to another successful year 2023.
SHREVEPORT, LA (01.07.23) – WTF…Win This Friday. Audio Excellence won the Maximum Power prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 209 on Friday morning, January 6th.
The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. The weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel is now spinning in Year 5.
The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for 209th time on Friday morning January 6th. The Wheel landed on the Maximum Power space and Audio Excellence slip was drawn from the jar. An Instagram post of the winning slip was posted. A video of the wheel spin was also posted.
We reached out to with a phone to call and let them know the good news. Will try again next week to speak with the retailer in Orlando FL to convey the great news that David Holland is looking forward to sending Audio Excellence a Maximum Power 4 Gauge Amp Kit.
Spinning out a winner each Friday, a lucky 12volt retailer can win a cool prize and top brands receive visibility across the marketplace.
12volt brands with a space on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel include Kicker, NavAtlas, SiriusXM, PowerBass, CRUX, DS18, JBL, RDV Automotive, Kenwood, JVC, Nakamichi and Maximum Power. 12volt News $100. cash awards have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for a winning 12volt retailer.
The Maximum Power Amp Kit is the 12volt-Spin-Win 209 prize headed to Audio Excellence in Orlando FL.
Past winners of the 12volt Spin-To-Win include…Stereo & Video Center-Tyler TX, The Outlaw Garage-Franklin TN, Exotic Sounds-West Palm Beach FL, Endless Possibilities-Aurora IL., Go Auto Sound in Union City NJ, Al&Ed’s South Bay CA, No Limitz Car Audio in Upland CA, Neil’s Specialty-Eureka CA, Sturgess Customs-Lexington SC, Audio By Art-San Antonio TX, SMS Car Audio in Marreo LA and Sweet Wheelz in Mississauga Ontario Canada, Cartronics in Biscayne FL, The CarAudio Shop in St Louis MO, Exotic Sounds in West Palm Beach FL, High North Customs in Grand Prairie Alberta Canada and AMS Audio in Bakersfield CA, Team QRT in Abbeyville LA and California Sound in Fontana CA and Jackie Cooper Electronics, Oklahoma City OK, MARS Audio-Orlando FL, All American Audio in Nutley NJ, Proline Car Stereo in Brooklyn NY, Custom Shop Miami, Tunes and Tint in Lakeland FL, Mobile Concepts Inc in Mokena IL, Seismic Auto Sound in Concord CA, Brooklyn Car Audio in Brooklyn NY, Audio Solutions in Florence MS, Enhanced Customs in Largo FL, Rayco Auto Clinic, Audio Design in San Jose CA, Go Bass Mode in Florida, Avenue Sound in Freeport NY, Audio Plus in Riverview FL, Stereo Zone in Whittier CA, In-Phase Car Audio in Omaha NE, AutoLife Group, N&H Electronics, SK Customs, Land & Sea, The Audio One, NC Custom Shop,Tint World Orlando, Ricky Smith’s Audio, VIP Custom Woks, Mobile Audio Concepts, Audio Lad, Sound Sensations, Dave’s Stereo, Stereo Design, Badlands Customs, Custom Audio-Erie PA, Voltz Autosports-Bridgeport CT, Infinity Sound and Security-Kissimmee, Autosport Plus-Canton OH, Stereo City Pros in Carmichael CA, Devine Concepts in Naples FL, The Sound Shop in Indian Trail NC, Extreme Performance Audio in Fresno CA, Audio Depot in Arlington TX, Audio Security in Houston TX, Earmark Car Audio and Marine in Lewisville TX, Audio Jam in Bear DE, Stereo City Ontario, Ontario CA, Audio By Art, San Antonio TX, Code Zero Customs in Tulsa OK, Ken’s Car Tunes in Mobile AL, Soundz Plus in Naperville IL, Markland Designs in Lithonia GA, Electronics Plus in Salinas CA, Xtreme Autosports in Santa Clarita CA, Superior Audio Sounds in San Angelo TX, Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Texas Dreamz Customs in Spring TX, Wired Electronics in Linden NJ and Intense Car Audio in OKC, OK, Underground Auto in Sarasota FL, Car Toys Tulsa in Tulsa OK, Real Audio in Erie PA, Go Autosound in Union NJ, DFM Stereo in Ukiah CA, Impact Tint and Audio in Tyler TX, Mobile Sound Systems in Arlington TX, Redline Audio and Performance In Spindale NC, Car Audio Land in San Diego CA, Audio X Custom Car Audio in Florence AL, River Oaks Car Stereo in Houston TX, American Radio Orlando in Sanford FL, Illustrious Customs in Woodbridge VA, Remote Start Pros in Lawrence MA, HiPro Audio in Victoria TX, AudioPlanetNY in Huntington Station NY, Endless Possibilities in Aurora IL, Audio Finesse in Santa Monica, Drive Customs in San Luis Obispo CA, Custom Works, Noblesville IN, AtoZ Detail in West Haven CT, Cars 843 in Charleston SC, CarTunes Atlanta in Atlanta GA, Mobile Concepts in Garwood NJ, Duke’s Car Stereo in Flint MI, Infinity Auto Sound, King Car Audio in Norwalk CT, PopTronics in Baltimore MD, Sanford Sound in Sanford ME, Angelvip2474 in Draper UT, Dynamic Car Audio in Baltimore MD, Hi-Pro Audio in Victoria TX, Car Stereo Max in Houston, Pro Audio Center in Richland MS, Rhodes Off-Roads in Farmington MO, Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Class A Sounds in Athens OH. Just Audio Video in North Providence RI, CT_Custom in Philadelphia, Audio Solutions in Florence MS and The Audio Shop RC in Rapid City SD, DG Motorsportz in High Point NC, ST Mobile in Texarkana TX, AR Custom OC in Orange CA, Temecula Mobile Sound in Temecula CA, Unique Auto Sound in Lindenhurst NY, D’s Garage in Corona CA and DS2 Mobile Solutionz in Tomball TX, C G Car Audio in Kissimmee FL, California Audio in West Valley City UT and The Action Audio Store in Wethersfield CT, Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA, Electronics Depot Car Audio in Altamonte Springs FL. Car Audio Garage in Pearland TX, Pinnacle Autosound in Lake City FL, J H Audio in Bowling Green VA, The Car Audio Shop StL in High Ridge MO, Anthonys Car Stereo in North Highlands CA, Flynn Audio in Middleton WI, Living Loud Car Audio in Pelham AL, Trail Star Audio in Minnesota, On The Spot Audio in Pennsauken NJ, Animated Car Audio in Essex MD, West Coast Car Audio in Citrus Heights CA, Modified Auto Sound in East Alton IL, Star Car Audio in Hermiston OR, VapeNAudio in Clovis CA, SoundWorks in Millersville MD Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA, J A Custom Audio in Houston TX Jose Electronics in North Hills CA, Sound Proof Car Stereo in Douglasville GA, Auto Additions in Springfield IL, Elite Car Audio in Hollywood CA, Masters Car Stereo in Greenville SC, Audio Plus in Eden NC, Seismic AutoSound in Novato CA, Car Audio Addicts in Pittsburgh PA and AudioKing Tinting in Yakima WA, Arias Tint and Alarms in Duncanville TX, Odeh Car Audio in Gadsden AL, 12volt Specialist in Newark DE, Cutting Edge Audio in San Diego CA, Southern Auto Fab in Lafayette LA, California Sound in Fontana CA, Big Boyz Toyz in Florence SC, 740 Audio in Athens OH and 12volt Outfitters in Hollywood FL., High Quality Auto Sound, Lawrence MA, Custom Car Stereo SC in Spartanburg SC, Zier Box in Dallas TX, Maximum in Manville NJ, Audio Car Stereo in Miami FL, Mach 1 Audio in Washington MO, Doren Car Stereo in Queens Village NY, Side-x-Side Audio in South Charleston WV, Sound Concept in Nanuet NY, Pda Road Gear in Littleton CO and A-Plus Audio and Tinting Newington CT, Audio Electronics in Indianapolis IN, Tint and Sound in Frederick MD, Tint World Wilmington DE, VIP Autoworks in Mentor OH, All Out Audio in Killeen TX, Yong’s Audio in Indianapolis IN, Custom Audio Concepts in Lima OH, Clear Vibrations in Quakertown PA, The Outlaw Garage in Columbia TN, Xpert Car Audio in Layton UT, No Doubt Window Tint in Ardmore OK, San Diego Car Stereo in San Diego CA, Smart Audio in Lawrence MA and Car Audio One in Chula Vista CA……Congratulations to all.
WTF… Where’s the Fun. On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel… on Friday January 13th.
The massive Harman display area in the Virgin Hotel covers nearly 30,000 square feet.
LAS VEGAS, NV (01.06.23) – HARMAN, a premier connected technologies company for automotive, consumer and enterprise markets makes a strong return to CES 2023 with the announcement of several new aftermarket auto products launches from JBL and Infinity.
These latest innovations deliver exactly what HARMAN does best – high-quality audio and leading technology. Below are short descriptions of the most recent products to join HARMAN’s Aftermarket roster.
JBL CLUB Subwoofers: Designed to deliver deep bass at an affordable price for drivers, The JBL CLUB Subwoofers leverage technology from JBL’s Professional and Luxury Audio divisions, taking a completely new approach to moving air in a car or SUV. The two new woofer models – the JBL Club 102 and the JBL Club 122 – feature JBL’s world famous bass response combined with superior technology and power handling, making them a great solution for bass in a car. The new JBL CLUB subwoofers will be available in Q2 and range from $159.95 – $169.95 for the single woofers and $349.95 – $549.95 for the single and double loaded enclosures.
JBL Rallybar Series: Three new models for powersports and marine applications —the JBL Rallybar XL, JBL Rallybar and Rallybar S—feature JBL’s signature sound combined with superior technology and an even more compact design, making them the premier choice for any off-road vehicle or boat. Equipped with a HARMAN tuned DSP, USB play, aux-in and out, Bluetooth, and the ability to sync to an unlimited number of Rallybars, the series brings best in class audio performance and innovative installation ease. With 7-way customizable party lighting, a map light function for in-vehicle use, and IP66 design, the innovative design is rugged enough for any adventure. The Rallybars will be available in Q2 and retail from $649.95-$999.95.
JBL Marine Solutions: Launching JBL Marine Amplifiers and CLUB Marine Speakers for the Marine market, the series introduces four new models of amplifiers and four new models of CLUB Marine speakers. All feature JBL’s 75 plus years of sound heritage and cutting-edge design at affordable prices for any boat. The subs play down to 20 Hertz thanks to a massive magnet and cast abs basket making them the perfect fit when playing low bass in the cavity of the boat. With 300 watt RMS 10” and 400-watt RMS 12”, it is easy to build a sub system with the new JBL Marine amplifiers. The new JBL Marine Amplifier series will be available in Q1 and range from $349.95 – $499.95. The new JBL CLUB Marine speaker options are available now on JBL.com, and range from $249.95 – $299.95.
Infinity Kappa Perfect Amplifier and Speaker:HARMAN launched its new partnership with Metra Electronics, enabling the pairing of Infinity Kappa Perfect PowerSports Amplifiers and Speakers with Metra Electronics’ Saddle Tramp DSP Processor system integration and installation equipment for the Harley Davidson motorcycle market. The kits consist of 2 speaker, 4 speaker, and 6 speaker audio systems in addition to accessory lower fairing installation kits for twin-cooled and non-twin-cooled applications. All products feature Infinity’s signature sound and cutting-edge technology at affordable prices. The amplifiers and speakers, once paired with Saddle Tramp’s direct fit brackets and DSP, are tuned by HARMAN Acoustic Sound Engineers to create a best-in-class audio performance and easy installation. The DSP flattens the factory audio settings through its head unit CAN connection. Detailed work instructions make the job simple to install and provide a factory looking result which installers are proud of, and end consumers can do on their own. The new Infinity Motorcycle kits will begin shipping in April with options ranging from $999.95 – $2499.95.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.06.23) – The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) was presented with the Group Achievement Award for its all-female Bronco build from the Automotive Women’s Alliance Foundation. The Group Achievement Award is given to a group of women who work together to make an exceptional contribution to the automotive and mobility industry. This includes exemplary teamwork and leadership exhibited and the significance of the accomplishment.
’21 Ford Bronco Wildtrak provided by the Ford Motor Co. underwent modifications that represent a culmination of the work of more than 125 female volunteers from throughout the United States and Canada that included veterans, students, mother-daughter and even granddaughter duos, as well as automotive technicians, race car drivers and award-winning car-building sisters.
“The collaboration truly represents the spirit of the build,” added Cathy Clark, SBN chair. “This project was a chance to spotlight women in the automotive aftermarket industry and the ways in which they come together and offer support to each other. We’re excited to see the passion their efforts received at the SEMA Show this year and to see where these opportunities may lead in the future.”
The project began on July 19, 2022, at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California, where SBN volunteers, including students from WyoTech, began disassembling, painting and upgrading the vehicle. The Bronco then made its way to the SEMA Garage in Detroit, where final accessories and a vinyl wrap were installed, and the vehicle was prepped for Las Vegas. Throughout 2023, the vehicle will be on display at multiple events highlighting women in automotive.
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