Echo Sales Announces the Launch of Sister Company Mobile Electronics Distribution (MED)

Posted on October 5, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Echo Sales.

GRAYSLAKE, IL (10.06.22) – Echo Sales officially announced the new Mobile Electronics Distribution (MED) entity on October 1st 2022. The new company will be co-located with the existing Echo Sales Rep Firm. Rob Osheaski and Mike Lewis will drive Mobile Electronics Distribution (MED) into the future to serve dealers in the territory.

*Echo Sales and Mobile Electronics Distribution are located in Grayslake, IL.*

Osheaski related “Mike Lewis and I started Echo Sales in 2015. We had 2 separate 1-person rep firms and combined to double in size. When we got virtually shut down for Covid in March of 2020 we were concerned about vendors being shut down for an extended time, especially the California based companies. We decided to blow out one of our offices and small receiving area to stock some inventory. That was the start of Echo Distribution. Over the last two and a half years we added inventory space by knocking out our conference room and 2 additional offices since we were overflowing with product. In July of this year, we expanded to our current location in Grayslake.”

*Shelving is in place in the newly expanded warehouse area.*

Echo Sales will remain the name of the rep firm and the parent company of Mobile Electronics Distribution (MED). Osheaski and Lewis decided to change the name of the distribution entity so it could chart its own course and not necessarily following the original direction of Echo Sales, which was planned only as a Stocking Rep Distributor for lines represented and within Echo Sales territories. The new course of MED is full 12-volt distribution for lines and territories beyond that which is represented by Echo Sales. Plans are already in the works for an even larger location to continue the growth of Echo Sales and MED.

Osheaski and Lewis are joined by staff team members Patrick Virock,Adrian Manrique, Jennifer Fritz, Donna Lewis, Betty Yarborough, Don Geiger and Doug Hansen. Echo Sales has a presence in Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Kentucky, Minnesota, South Dakota, North Dakota and small segment of Ohio. The firms specialize in Car, Motorcycle, Marine and RV products.

Echo Sales and MED are located 888 E Belvidere Rd Suite 419 Grayslake, IL 60030, 847-847-4775. See www.echosales.net for more

Design Engineering Releases C5 & C6 Corvette Transmission Tunnel Thermal Shields

Posted on October 5, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Design Engineering.

AVON LAKE, OH (10.06.22) – Dramatically reduce the amount of heat transferred through the transmission tunnel and into the vehicle’s interior in Chevrolet Corvette C5 and C6 models with Transmission Tunnel Thermal Shields from Design Engineering, Inc.

Precision CNC-cut for a perfect fit and ease of installation, the shields reduce console and interior temperatures and serve as a barrier to unwanted road noise. Extremely lightweight, they are not affected by wind, water, or other harsh conditions.

“A well-known and longtime problem with many Corvettes is the amount of heat transferred into and through the console,” said Mike Buca of DEI. “These shields reduce the negative effects of in-cabin excessive high temperatures and improve the experience of driving a Corvette.”

Made of 10mil embossed aluminum bonded to a high-temp, finely woven, needle-punched glass fiber composite material, the shields can withstand direct temperatures up to 1750°F (955°C) and feature an aggressive self-adhesive backing that holds past 450°F (232°C)

They are available as a single Trans Tunnel Plate Heat Shield, a 4-piece Trans Tunnel Side Shield kit, or a complete 5-piece set (C5 #50530 & C6 #50532). Installation is performed without removal of the Transmission Tunnel Reinforcement Plate, and kits for C7 Corvette models will be available soon.

For more information about Transmission Tunnel Thermal Shields and DEI’s complete line of performance heat and sound control products visit www.designengineering.com.

Design Engineering at the Second Annual RV Hall of Fame Suppliers Show

Posted on October 4, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Featured and tagged Design Engineering.

ELKHART, IN (10.05.22) – On Saturday, September 24th, Mike Beyersdoerfer rolled the BEI Dutch Star from Batesville, IN into Elkhart for the Second Annual RV Hall of Fame Supplier Show that filled the 100,000 square foot RV Hall of Fame Museum. The facility features a variety of historical recreational vehicles from Air Stream, Winnebago and other American makers.

2022 is the 50th Anniversary of the amazing RV Hall of Fame Museum that celebrates and honors pioneers and individuals in the RV industry that were instrumental in making the recreational vehicle and manufactured housing industries what they are today.

*Mike Beyersdoerfer is flanked by customers in the DEI Booth.*

*The RV Museum Hall of Fame in Elkhart stretches over 100,000 square feet.*

“We represented Design Engineering that makes many products with applications across the RV industry. Insulation and sound deadening products are supplied directly to manufacturers with DEI D/Mat. Sprinter vans are another hot area and we supply BoomMat Flex. The DEI pre-cut BoomMat Flex kits provide a lot of time saving on the installation side for Sprinter vans.”

In the DEI booth Beyersdoerfer, and Mike Buca-DEI Product Manager, were set up to showcase many DEI products. During the 3-Day run of the show, that featured over 150 exhibitors, they met with dozens of dealers and networked with dozens of RV industry members at the event.

*Mike Beyersdoerfer beside a classic custom RV with a Cadillac heritage.*

*Attendees had an opportunity to experience a wide selection of RVs documenting the rich history of the category.*

Beyersdoerfer added, “The really great thing was I had emails from 5 attendees right after the event wanting to place orders.”

There were many social activities around the city of Elkhart showcasing the RV industry. Evenings at the event included live performances from Florida Georgia line and headliners.

Concluding, Beyersdoerfer offered, “I myself have enjoyed owning a RV for years and have had several. I drove my 40’ Dutch Star to the event. On the grounds outside there were many custom and classic RV’s that I enjoyed checking out before the event started. The weather actually curtailed outside activities so I brought my RV inside the event area.”

Visit designengineering.com for more.

Metra Electronics to Unveil Over 100 Products at SEMA 2022

Posted on October 4, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Metra, SEMA Show.

HOLLY HILL, FL (10.05.22) – Metra Electronics has announced that it will have two booths at the 2022 SEMA Show, November 1st-4th at the Las Vegas Convention Center; booth #11139 in the North Hall and its off-roading and powersports products on display at booth #60031 in the West Hall. Metra has supported SEMA throughout its virtual events and other safety protocols because the trade show is so vital to 12volt and other industries. This year will mark a return to pre-pandemic attendance for the SEMA show, and the manufacturer is looking forward to welcoming a larger number of 12volt enthusiasts to their booths than they’ve seen in the past two years.

Metra Electronics is planning big surprises for this year’s SEMA show. The manufacturer will unveil a new brand developed under the Metra Electronics umbrella, focusing on offering high-quality products that every installer needs when designing flexible audio systems. Additionally, more than 100 new products will be introduced, including a new line of lithium series batteries under its Shuriken brand. These batteries are designed for numerous applications, including audio, motorcycle, marine, auto racing, powersports, and more. Also, Heise LED will introduce three new controllers that will work with an all-new mobile app for smartphones and tablets to allow users to control Heise RGB, RGBW, and Chasing lighting products all from one app. The brand will also display new LED wheel lights, rock lights, tailgate bars, lightbars, and more in an assortment of exciting new styles.

Metra continues to push forward with the development of new dash kits that, when combined with their radio replacement interfaces from Axxess, bring new vehicle fit applications to the market. An assortment of their newest additions to this product line will be unveiled at SEMA, with many more planned for the future. Metra will also showcase next-generation DSP products, new accessories for Ford Bronco and Jeep, and several new innovations from iBEAM Vehicle Safety Systems. The iBEAM display will include vehicle-specific rearview mirror T-harnesses, a Universal Streaming Rearview Mirror with a built-in 9″ Monitor, and more.

Also to be featured are motorcycle audio and lighting products from Saddle Tramp, including headlights, LED accent lighting, saddlebag lids, keystone lights, and more. Metra’s Install Baybrand will also be on display as it continues to add to its comprehensive collection of professional 12volt installation products with new connectors, terminals, fuses, cable ties, switches, relays, and more. These products are designed using the best available materials and construction to ensure ease of use and years of reliability.

Additional product announcements will be released leading up to the show with more details, and new product catalogs will be available to download at MetraOnline.com shortly after the event.

Pennzoil Dare to Perform Experience Combines Entertainment With Education

Posted on October 4, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Penzoil, SEMA Show.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.05.22) – With dozens of industry influencers, celebrities, noteworthy builds, games, prizes and activities, Pennzoil’s “Dare to Perform” Experience at the 2022 SEMA Show combines fun, energetic entertainment with industry education that will help professionals in the automotive aftermarket.

In the 12,150-sq.-ft. area located in Booth #81059 outside the main entrance of the Las Vegas Convention Center, Showgoers will be able to connect with top names, including John Hennessey, Chelsea DeNofa, Vaughn Gittin Jr., Adam LZ, Joey Logano and more. Meanwhile, games and contests will be taking place, and technical experts will explain and conduct live demonstrations showcasing how motor oils protect a vehicle’s engine.

“The Pennzoil Dare to Perform Experience is a fun and engaging way for professionals at the SEMA Show to build career-boosting connections and learn what’s new in the industry,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “The interactive demonstrations and in-person activities contribute to an engaging experience that you can only get at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas.”

Open to all credentialed SEMA Showgoers, the Pennzoil “Dare to Perform” Experience will have something happening throughout the week. Complimentary coffee will be available during Pennzoil’s “Perfect Pour,” Tuesday–Thursday, November, 1–3, from 8:00 a.m.–11:00 am. The celebrity appearance schedule will be posted at www.pennzoil.com/sema, as well as on www.SEMAShow.com and through the official SEMA Show mobile app.

To learn about all the interactive and engaging features at the 2022 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

Optima Brings Expanded High-Performance Action to the 2022 SEMA Show

Posted on October 3, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Uncategorized and tagged OPTIMA, SEMA Show.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.04.22) – The OPTIMA Ultimate Street Car Invitational (OUSCI) is bringing live, action-packed excitement to the SEMA Show, growing its activation with three of its five segments unfolding during the 55th annual trade show, Nov. 1-4, 2022, in Las Vegas, NV.

The competition’s Peak Performance Challenge (a timed segment) and the Lingenfelter Design & Engineering Challenge took place at the SEMA Show for the first time in 2021. Those two segments will return to this year’s SEMA Show, while the Autocross portion of the competition makes its debut at the Las Vegas Convention Center’s Bronze Lot during the exclusive trade-only event. The remainder of the OUSCI continues Nov. 5-7, 2022, at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

“As an expanded feature at the 2022 SEMA Show, OPTIMA’s Ultimate Street Car Invitational is an iconic competition that will showcase the aftermarket’s potential,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “With modifications that enhance the performance of the vehicles, the competing cars and trucks embody what the SEMA Show is all about. It’s going to be exciting to watch the action up close and in person.”

*The OPTIMA Ultimate Street Car Invitational is growing its activation at the 2022 SEMA Show by hosting three of its five segments during the Nov. 1-4 trade show.*

With six regional qualifying events spanning more than eight months, the OUSCI includes the country’s top road-worthy modified vehicles. Top performers from the regional events receive coveted invitations to compete in the final competition, with a handful of spots reserved for vehicles selected at the SEMA Show.

Since 2008 when the OUSCI debuted, an additional highlight for Showgoers has been a display of all 100 competition vehicles at the SEMA Show in an area known as Optima Alley. At the end of the Show, the vehicles parade out of the convention center and make their way to Las Vegas Motor Speedway, where they compete in a five-part competition. Last year two of the segments kicked off the competition and took place at the SEMA Show. This year, the SEMA Show will host three of the five segments.

“It’s rare to be able to witness so many vehicles push the limits of performance and agility,” said Gattuso. “To see the competition unfold live is exhilarating and inspiring.”

The Bronze Lot is located in the outdoor area south of South Hall. For details about the 2022 SEMA Show, including a floor plan showing where the Bronze Lot is or to apply for credentials to attend the SEMA Show, visit www.semashow.com.

Oracle Lighting Launches New Triple Fog LED Light for Bronco at SEMA Show

Posted on October 3, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Oracle Lighting.

METAIRIE, LA (10.04.22) – Oracle Lighting will launch its new Triple Fog LED Light (Part Number 5890; MSRP: $359.95) for 2021+ Ford Broncos during the 2022 SEMA Show, held in Las Vegas, Nevada. from Nov. 1-4 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Booth # 20137. Oracle’s new LED Fog LED Light is now shipping.

“If you are looking for a seamless fog light solution for your Ford Bronco like so many other have asked for, we’ve designed an amazing LED triple fog light kit for the steel bumper equipped Ford Broncos,” said Justin Hartenstein, Oracle Lighting director of development. “You can now easily add functional forward-facing LED lighting to your Bronco with this purpose-built kit for a fraction of what others charge.”

The six patented high-powered LED emitters provide significant visibility through advanced optics with a 6,000 raw Lumen output and a precision design that helps reduce glare. The steel plates are galvanized then have a powder coat finish applied for ultimate protection. This blacked-out appearance along with the IP68 waterproof rating offers a sleek look with superior durability to withstand any conditions.

“The simple bolt-on installation uses factory bolt locations and requires no drilling, modifications, nor assembly for this Bronco fog light kit,” explained Hartenstein. “Typical installation time is less than 30 minutes and each kit comes with a wiring harness for simple DIY wiring. This complete kit includes assembled steel housings, six LED emitters, switched relay wiring harness, and all necessary hardware – fully assembled and ready to install.”

Additional features and benefits include:

High quality ⅛-inch thick steel plate
Galvanized anti-rust treatment
Black powder coat finish
Mounts using factory hardware
Engineered and assembled in the USA
Available in white (p/n 5890-001) and yellow (p/n 5890-006)
2-Year warranty

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.

AMA EnduroCross and KICKER Hit the Track in Denver

Posted on October 2, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

DENVER, CO (10.03.22) – The AMA EnduroCross Round 3 event took place at the National Western Event Center in Denver Saturday evening, October 1st. EnduroCross riders faced a dirt track filled with boulders, logs, large tires and ramps on their bikes.

KICKER, a series sponsor, was on site with tables filled with products under a large tent. The KICKER RZR was Livin’Loud by the tent and ready for demos.

*KICKER was set up in the lobby with a large selection of products on display along with the RZR with Livin’Loud demos.*

To set up the KICKER display Lorin Morrell rolled in with KICKER pickup on Friday. For this event local retailer MB Customs, with owner Mike Brown, was on site. Additional onsite support was supplied by Matt Macias, a representative, from the territory KICKER distributor Santa Fe Distributing.

*The KICKER RZR positioned overlooking the stands and arena track.*

Arien Sifuentes is all smiles with KICKER raffle prize. Matt Macias, Lorin Morrell and Mike Brown (LtoR) are all smiles too. A family member accompanied Arien to the booth to pick up the Bullfrog raffle prize.

Morrell, who orchestrates KICKER’s presence at AMA EnduroCross events, related “Attendance was strong at the event. Having Mike Brown at the event to connect with local enthusiasts and consumers was terrific. Showing the wide selection of products we had on display directly to consumers is a great way to drive business. Mike and Matt, from Santa Fe, both stayed engaged with attendees through the evening.”

*The 2022 AMA EnduroCross series has been very active at each stop.*

Three cities remain on the Six event AMA EnduroCross Series schedule for 2022…Prescott AZ-October 22nd, Boise ID-November 5th and Reno NV November 19th.

Lorin Morrell and Mike Brown supplied super images for this article.

Visit kicker.com for more.

SEMA Show TORA Feature Vehicle Trail Highlights Truck and Off-Road Trends

Posted on October 2, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.03.22) – As part of the 2022 SEMA Show, the Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) Feature Vehicle Program will shine a spotlight on 10 vehicles that showcase diversity, trends and opportunities available in the truck and off-road market. Situated this year in a new location (outside walkway between West and North Halls), the area referred to as “TORA Feature Vehicle Trail” is a must-see attraction for all Showgoers.

Check it out to see the following modified vehicles in key market categories:

Category: Overland
Baja Designs: ’14 Lexus GX 460

Category: Side-by-Side
Thumper Fab, ’22 Can-Am Defender

Category: CUV/Crossover
BERG Performance Inc, ’08 Porsche Cayenne Turbo

Category: EV
Trulers, ’75 Volkswagen Sand Rail

Category: Off-Road
Proffitts, ’86 Toyota Land Cruiser

Category: SUV
Quadratec, ’22 Jeep Wrangler

Category: Off-Road
Baja Designs, ’22 Jeep Wrangler

Category: Lifted Truck
CDT Automotive, ‘21 Ford F-450

Category: Off-Road
Western Automotive, ’21 Jeep Wrangler JL

Category: Overland
Nisstec Lifts, ’22 Nissan Frontier

“As industry trends evolve, it’s important for TORA to reflect and showcase all current and future opportunities available,” said TORA Council Director Denise Waddingham. “The diverse array of vehicles will inspire and educate SEMA Showgoers to the unlimited possibilities.”

Visitors at the TORA Feature Vehicle Trail are invited to vote for their favorite vehicle for the TORA Feature Vehicle Best in Show Award. The winner will be announced during the TORA Industry Reception, November 2, at 5:00 p.m. in West Hall 3rd Floor Terrace.

Visit sema.org for more.

DOW Technologies Initiates Hurricane Ian Relief Drive

Posted on October 2, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry.

TAMPA, FL (10.03.22) – DOW Technologies will be donating 2.5% of sales over the next week to Hurricane Ian relief. As Hurricane Ian’s destruction has had wide ranging impacts on our home state of Florida, we want to offer assistance to those in need. Our plan to donate a percentage of sales also provides an opportunity for our customers to be involved. They can be confident that part of their purchase will go towards those impacted by the storm.

As a small/medium sized business ourselves, we recognize the importance and the responsibility of SMBs to communities. Many of our customers have been profoundly impacted by this hurricane, and we are striving to do our part to help get their communities back up and running.

DOW Technologies President and CEO John Yodzis provided the above information.