The 2023 PNWCEE Set for May 15-17 2023

SEATTLE, WA (12.08.22) – The 9th Annual PNWCEE is set for May 15-17 at the Hilton Doubletree Suites at South Center near the Seattle Airport.

Mark Giovannetti and Dan McMilan, who spearhead the event related, “Learning from Factory Trainers in Educational Classes and industry peers is an opportunity to experience the newest Solutions, Technology and Award-Winning Products from Leading manufacturers. We look forward once again to seeing members from the 12volt industry in Seattle.”

Free registration for all Dealers, their Salespeople & Technicians starting December 15.

Go to www.pnwcee.com for updates.

Couple Donates Classic Auto Collection to Northwood University

MIDLAND, MI (12.07.22) – A Mount Pleasant couple is donating more than $2 million worth of classic automobiles to support Northwood University and The Northwood Idea.

Michael and Dianne Morey have pledged 35 vehicles from their automotive collection in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan.

“We are incredibly grateful to Michael and Dianne for this extraordinary gift, which will be used to enhance our Midland campus, create scholarship opportunities, and build the university’s endowment for future students,” stated Northwood President Kent MacDonald.

A portion of the Morey Collection.

MacDonald noted the Morey’s family story is one of success from hard work — which is the epitome of what Northwood strives to instill in its students, and what its alumni exhibit daily in their respective fields.

The Morey’s story dates back to 1983, when they 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.

In 1987, 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.

Michael Morey is pictured with a portion of the Morey Collection.

In 2018, the Morey’s announced they would sell 100% of the company to their 462 employees in an employee stock ownership plan. This came after the company entertained two offers to sell from private firms.

“We realized neither was a good fit for Bandit, so we made the decision to sell to our trusted employees,” Dianne Morey told the Morning Sun in 2018.

The company now has 725 employees.

“The Morey’s 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.

The Morey family will transfer the vehicle titles to Northwood University prior to the close of this calendar year. By June 30, 2023, Northwood University will liquidate The Morey Collection with Mecum Auctions in a no-reserve auction.

The preference is for The Morey Collection to be auctioned at Mecum’s Kissimmee Auction on Jan. 6.

“The cars have been a large part of our lives, and each tells a story,” the Moreys said in a statement. “It’s time for these cars to write a new chapter, and 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.”

Not all the cars will be auctioned off, as Northwood University will retain a 1958 Chevrolet Corvette to display on campus.

“We are very pleased to showcase this classic Corvette on campus as a reminder of the Morey’s generosity and American innovation, while using the vehicle throughout the year to support our mission to develop future leaders of global economic and social progress,” Marshall stated.

Northwood University will utilize up to $1,000,000 of the cash proceeds to enhance the campus experience and build upon recent campus improvements dedicated earlier this year in May.

The remaining proceeds will be used to build a scholarship and endowment fund supporting Northwood University’s free-enterprise mission.

Click here for details about the Jan. 6 auction.

DEI’s All New GEN-3 ONYX Turbo Shield at the PRI Show

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (12.07.22) – Stop by Design Engineering Inc.’s Booth 301 at the PRI Show to get an up-close look at the new GEN-3 Onyx Turbo Shield, along with DEI’s complete line of Turbo Heat Shields.

This new product is like wrapping a turbo in a tuxedo T-shirt. Keep your Turbo cool and running strong with a custom Turbo Heat Shield from DEI.

Available in a variety of styles and fitments for all turbo types, the shields reduce under hood temperatures while protecting sensitive components and encouraging faster spool-ups.

All this and more can be found at the DEI PRI Booth (#301) at the Lucas Oil Convention Center December 7th through 9th.

Visit designengineering.com for more.

Retro Sound Releases RetroPod 6A: Surface-Mount Speaker Modules

HENDERSON, NV (12.07.22) – The RPOD6 has been re-designed to have a slimmer mounting depth of just 2.44” and accepts the same 6.5” speakers as before. With the new slimmer profile, the RPOD6A can be mounted in a variety of new locations to add speakers to any classic car that didn’t originally come with an audio system without the need to cut or modify the interior.

RetroPods are built with a rugged ABS plastic that can either be painted, wrapped in vinyl, or carpeted to match a vehicle’s interior for a fully customized look. The angled design directs sound towards the listener for better stereo imaging and an enjoyable listening experience. The RPOD6A accepts a 6.5” speaker and is available with RetroSound®’s S-62 Stereo Speakers or their Premium R-652N Stereo Speakers.

The RPOD6A  is available now for $51.99 at www.retromanufacturing.com

Audio House Hosted The Company’s Famous Black Friday Sale

NAPA, CA (12.06.22) – Following a 2 year pause, due to COVID-19 and product shortages, the Audio House hosted the company’s FAMOUS Black Friday Sale on Friday, November 25th.

Jag Rattu, Audio House owner, related “It was fantastic to be back again with our Black Friday Sale that we have been doing for over 10 years. We did have almost 20 people waiting outside for the doors to open at 7 AM. We promoted the event on social media with a Black Friday VIP Pass, offered free giveaways and had a raffle with a $2,500 system as the grand prize. In addition to the social media promotion we distributed 1500 fliers in the area along with a email blast to our list.”

This post was part of the company’s strong social media outreach.

Manufacturer brands featured during the event included Alpine, Hertz, Focal, Kenwood, Stinger, MEDA, Pioneer, Rockford Fosgate and SolarGard. Alpine rep for NorCal Pete Bobsin was on hand and provided line demos of the Alpine Experience pickup for attendees.

The parking lot was full and the Alpine Experience pickup was ready for demos.
Vanessa was very busy making sure all of the Black Friday specials were set to go.

“We have been in business here since 2006 and it was so good to have a very busy Black Friday event. We didn’t have as many waiting at the door but still had a very strong event. Pete did a great job with the Alpine demo and our staff of 11 was very busy through the day and I stayed past 8 PM to take care of the last customer. The winner of the $2,500 raffle prize has a Nissan 350Z and we have ordered everything and have a January date to do the installation. We are already planning for Black Friday 2023” Rattu concluded.

See @audio_house on social media and audiohousenapa.com.

Oracle Lighting’s New LED Off-Road Side Mirrors for Jeep Wrangler JL / Gladiator JT Now Shipping

METAIRIE, LA (12.06.22) – Oracle Lighting is proud to announce the new LED Off-Road Side Mirrors for Jeep Wrangler JL / Gladiator JT (p/n 5855-001) are now shipping with an MSRP of $399.95.

“This patent-pending new product features a set of high-powered LED light bars integrated into the factory-style side mirrors on the Wrangler JL and Gladiator,” said Justin Hartenstein, Oracle Lighting director of development. “Ideal for off-road activities, such as trail riding where the driver needs to clearly see obstructions and other possible hazards not directly in front of them, this integration allows for easy installation and a clean, almost OEM look while providing a functional 45 degree peripheral beam angle for optimized illumination for the driver. The LEDs are custom design that features a total of 24 LEDs producing approximately 2250 Lm.”

Multiple aluminum heat sinks are used to effectively wick heat away from the LEDs and are designed to use the airflow through the mirror housing to increase cooling, similar to a radiator. The housing material is made from rugged Polycarbonate, which is two times stronger than the factor ABS housing and bolts onto the vehicle using the factory mounts for easy installation. A set of anodized rock guards protect the LED acrylic lenses, which also houses the advanced LED optics. The efficient optics focus the light for optimal visibility from the driver’s seat position.

Additional product features and specifications include:

  • 24x 1W Cree LEDs
  • 6000K color temperature
  • 2 Amp power draw
  • Patent Pending design
  • 2-year warranty

“Our goal in developing this product was to create a LED light bar that could seamlessly integrate into the vehicle design and appear to be factory,” Hartenstein concluded. “Light bars and ditch lights tacked to bumpers and roof racks have poor integration and appear to be an afterthought. These mirrors are more integrated than traditional ditch lights, provide a functional purpose, and look good at the same time…the best of all worlds.”

Louisiana-based Oracle Lighting has been designing innovative lighting products and technologies for the automotive/12Volt, powersports, motorcycle, and marine markets since 1999. Oracle’s philosophy is this: in today’s world of fly-by-night vendors, we think it is important to partner with businesses that you can trust to be there for you today, tomorrow, and for years to come.

For more information on Oracle Lighting and its full product line, please visit www.oraclelights.com, call (800) 407-5776, or email info@oraclelights.com.

Design Engineering Releases New Heat Control Products for Exhaust Pipes

RAPID CITY, SD (12.06.22) – Design Engineering Inc.’s long list of proven heat and sound control solutions, includes its popular Titanium Knit Exhaust Sleeves.

Designed to protect vulnerable components and prevent heat from transferring into vehicle cabins, the sleeves are made from a thick basalt material that expands over sensor bungs and flanges and can be rolled at the ends. Available in 12”, 24″ and 36″ lengths to fit 3″ to 5″ pipes, the sleeves have a max temperature rating of 1800°F (982°C ) and a continuous rating of 1382°F (750°C ). They can be cut to fit any application, and are also available in special-order custom lengths.

For more information about Titanium Knitted Sleeves and DEI’s complete line of performance heat and sound control products, visit PRI Booth (#301).

The PRI Show takes place at the Lucas Oil Center in Indianapolis on December 7-9.

Visit designengineering.com for more.

Lafayette Custom Automotive Hosted Customer Appreciation Showcase

LAYAYETTE, LA (12.05.22) – Lafayette Custom Automotive was the place to be on Friday December 2nd as the company hosted a Customer Appreciation Showcase event. The event, which kicked off the holiday sales season, featured vehicles in the parking lot for live demos with factory representatives. Refreshments and food were enjoyed by those in the crowd along with 25% specials for the day.

Alpine Experience pickup with the Alpine Bass shower were set up out front.

Lafayette Custom Automotive serves the area with a wide variety of automotive products and services. Owner Martin Branch and Shane Douet, along with the crew, welcomed Jimmy Chauffe and Kevin Knox with their demo vehicles. Chauffe is the area Alpine Specialist and Knox is a member of the Marketing Pros rep firm. Chauffe demoed the Alpine Experience pickup along with a trailer with showroom. Kevin Knox demoed Focal and Mosconi products. The Lafayette Custom Automotive pontoon was loaded with KICKER marine products and Livin’Loud for demos.

“Our Customer Appreciation Showcase turned out very well. We could tell all appreciated the opportunity to hear extraordinary systems in the Alpine pickup and a customer’s car that featured Focal and Mosconi gear. Our customers also mentioned it was terrific to speaks with Jimmy Chauffe with Alpine and learn more about Focal and Mosconi from Kevin Knox. Our customer also liked others experiencing the system in his ride. Raffle prizes from Alpine and Kicker, along with some delicious Canes Chicken, plus discount specials put a smile on faces too” Shane Douet related.

In front of the KICKER display (R to L) Kevin Knox, Martin Branch, Jimmy Chauffe and Shane Douet.

Chauffe related “The event started off busy and traffic slowed la bit later. With the demos and time spent with customers the LCA crew wrote some nice tickets. The 25% discount offered encouraged attendees to put products on layaway too. With the activity and visibility from the day business will certainly continue through the holiday sales season and beyond.”

The Lafayette Custom Automotive pontoon was ready to be Livin’Loud with KICKER on a warm sunny December day.
With a pause in the action the crew by the Alpine display (L to R) Shane Douet, Jimmy Chauffe, Martin Branch and Kevin Knox.

LCA has beeen providing quality work in the Lafayette area for over 40 years and the team is committed to providing the best possible experience for their customers.

A big 12volt News thank you to Jimmy Chauffe for utilizing the 12voltSTP Tool to send event images.

Visit lcauto.com for more.

SSV Works Announces New Rear Speaker Pods for 2021+ Ford Bronco

OXNARD, CA (12.05.22) – SSV Works is proud to announce the launch of the new plug-and-play 6.5-inch rear speaker-pod add-ons for 2021+ Ford Broncos. Available loaded (p/n BR-B65A) or unloaded (p/n BR-B65U), the patent-pending system is now shipping.

“The new Broncos have become immensely popular in a short period of time, and we quickly realized its audio system needed an additional audio option,” said Trevor Kaplan, SSV Works CEO. “Designed specifically for the new Broncos, our new 6.5-inch rear speaker-pod add-ons provide easy installation in the rear factory roll cage using factory mounting locations. Optimized for sound quality, these pods are weather-proof and resistant to extreme environmental conditions, making them the ideal audio systems when out on the trails or on the beach.”

The loaded pods come with 6.5in., 120 Watt (peak) SSV Works powersports speakers with a 25mm tweeter and weather-proof EPDM dual-lock gasket with an MSRP of $339.99. If you already have the speakers, the unloaded pods have an MSRP of $229.99.

Additional features and specifications include:
• Includes stainless steel hardware, molded grommet, & integrated speaker terminals
• Plug-&-Play harness allows for both factory or external amplifier connectivity
• Dimensions: 19.75in x 11.5in x 8.6in
• Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty of both the pods and the SSV Works speakers

For more information, please visit www.SSVWorks.com, call 818-991-1SSV (1778), or email sales@SSVworks.com.

Vision Tech America Launches New VCT700AI-4 Featuring AI Technology

FULLERTON, CA (12.05.22) – Vision Tech America, Inc. (BOYO ) believes in providing customers with the state-of-the-art technology in automobile engineering with the best possible prices to modernize vehicles.

Richard Hong, BOYO VP of Sales, in the company’s SEMA booth with new products featuring AI Technology.

In that regard, BOYO has unveiled the new VCT700AI-4 with AI (Artificial Intelligent Technology) featuring 7” 4 Channel AHD AI Monitor with intelligent detection and warning alert. See the spec sheet graphic for complete details.

“AI (artificial intelligent technology) is becoming increasingly important in the automotive aftermarket industry.  With this in mind, we  launched the VCT700AI-4. This product will help our customer with much more safety, efficiency, and performance on the road.” stated Richard Hong, VP of Sales.

Visit visiontechamerica.com for more.