The 12volt Central Studios On The Beat For Positive Industry News

SHREVEPORT LA (08.10.25) The 12volt Central Studios staff has been showcasing positive news across the 12volt industry for 31 years. Today it is more important than ever to showcase positives across the 12volt industry. Vendors, reps, distributors and retailers must all work together to connect with consumers and let them know the wide variety of products that are available for their vehicles to drive business.

The 12volt industry is not a deck-and-four like it was in the 1960s. Consumers’ cars, pickups and RVs offer such a wide variety of opportinities for upgrades including in-vehicle connectivity, security, dash cams, wheels, tires, graphics, window tint and more.

Just a small part of the Sturgis Rally action!

The motorcycle industry is now such a hot category as evidenced by the recent Sturgis Rally 2025. This town of Sturgis has a population of 7020 people. Over the last 10 days the estimated crowd of bikers on site was a reported 400,000.

Custom Sounds traveled from Austin TX to be on site supporting Rockford Fosgate.

The Audio Edge Team rolled 1380 miles from Nederland TX to be on site to support Kenwood at the Sturgis Rally.

The side-by-side market is another growth category available for proactive 12volt retailers. The UTV takeover this past week in Winchester Bay OR was another opportunity that is being driven by UTV enthusiasts with a desire for aftermarket upgrades.

KICKER was livin’loud and flying high at the Arenacross Race at the at the Buffalo Chip during the Sturgis Rally.

The marine category continues to be a great opportunity for proactive 12volt retailers to connect with a community to make music fun on the waves. Lighting shines brightly in the cove or dock at night.

RaceSport Lighting lights up the dock!

To drive business in all of the above categories industry members must come together to connect with consumers to let them know the wide variety of products that we make in all of the above categories. It’s so important for 12volt retailers to connect with those communities to drive the in-store experience and provide expert installation. Consumers today are on their smartphones and laptops in this digital era. That said, consumers cannot experience the bass, mids and highs on their phone or laptop. Expert installation in the retailer’s bay delivers a much better result for consumers than the DYI experience.

UTV Stereo was on site at the UTV Takeover as Colby Boeser, flanked by Matt and Chris, was on site supporting their The RP Store.

Steve Cope, ZZ2 National Sales Manager, gets ready for his time with Houston Car Stereo on the road with TOLA Rep David Toliver-Synergy Marketing.

The 12volt Central Studios staff, with very valuable support from friends and industry members, is on the road and news beat to showcase the much needed positives across the 12volt industry today.

The above images showcase positives from this past week.

Prodigy Car Audio Wins ESB Audio Prize On The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 333

12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (08.09.25) 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 7.

The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for the 333rd time on Friday morning on August 8th. The Wheel landed on the ESB Audio space and the Prodigy Car Audio slip was drawn from the jar. An Instagram post of the winning spin slip was posted. A video of the Wheel spin was also posted. 

We reached out to the winning retailer to let them know the good news Chris Bennett will be sending their ESB Audio Prize. Frank Duenas answered the phone and was very happy to hear the news. He is familiar with the ESB Audio and ZAPCO brands. Prodigy Car Audio is located in Manteca CA and specializes in car audio, lighting, tint, custom systems and more. Frank notes ‘Life is better Loud’.

Spinning out a winner each Friday, a lucky 12volt retailer can win a cool prize and top brands receive visibility across the 12volt marketplace.

12volt brands with a space on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel include KICKER, RDV, PowerBass, CRUX, JBL, Kenwood, JVC, Race Sport Lighting, EBS Audio, King Boxes, Massive Audio, Q Power and VIPER. 12volt News and 12voltBeat $100. cash awards also have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for the winning 12volt retailer.

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, Car Audio One in Chula Vista CA, Audio Excellence in Orlando FL, Ultimate Sounds 1 in Wilmington NC, King Kong Custom Audio in Albuquerque NM. Manny’s Customs in Stockton CA, OD Car Audio in Pasco WA, Car Tunes on Line in Largo FL, INOV8 Audio in Houston TX, Kartel Mobile Electronics in Waterbury CT, Pro Auto Sound in Hialeah FL Mobile AVC in Brunswick ME, Fabulous Auto Alarms in Passaic NJ, Jimmy_Sound_System in Lawrence MA, American Audio Concepts in Houston TX, Arias Tint and Alarm in Duncanville TX, Big Papas Car Audio in Cincinnati OH, Houston Audio Lab in Houston TX, 901 Sound in Memphis TN, Kurtz Car Stereo in Traverse City MI, Sound By Stephen, Music In Motion in Alsip IL, Current Automotive Design in Sparta NJ, Prestige Sounds in Pompano Beach FL, Mobile AVC in Brunswick ME, Telza Audio in Columbia SC, Limelight Automotive in Webster NY, Victory Lap Auto Restyling East Moline IL, Unique Audio VA in Lorton VA, Builds by Paul in Litchfield AZ, Voodoo Customs in Haltom City TX, Elevated Design in Phoenix AZ, Mobilework/Tintworks in Santa Maria CA, Nappo Car Audio in Houston, Platinum Car Audio in Washington, Ballistic Audiowerks in Smithsburg MD,  Xteme-Car Audio in Bremerton WA, Beltline Motors in Decatur AL, Ultimate Sounds in Chattanooga TN, Santa Fe Auto Sound in Overland Park KS, Soundelux Car Audio in Chula Vista CA, Kartele Mobile Electronics in Waterbury CT, BK Audio in Pasco WA, CenCal Audio in Madura CA, Xtreme Auto Sound in Louisville KY,  Victorylap Auto Styling in East Moline IL, Car Trendz in Alexandria VA, BLVD Customs in Lakeland FL, Audio Systems in Montclair CA, Fitment_nyc_shop in Jamaica NY, King Audio in Norwalk CT. Foss Audio in Tukwila WA, OG Car Audio in Kissimmee FL, Tint and Tunes in Sacramento CA, Dr Dashboard in Evansville IN, The Sound Shop in Chino CA, Extreme Concepts in Albertville AL,The-King of Custom in Longwood FL, Car Audio Depot in Modesto CA and Audio Dreams in Acworth GA, PCH Custom Audio in Long Beach CA, Crazy Ralph’s Car Stereo in Gonzales LA,  Joe’s Cycle Therapy in Somerset MA, Cal Custom Audio in Tracy CA, NWA Audio in Bentonville AR,  XT Audio in Miami, Tim’s Audio in Newport OR, Build’s By Paul in Litchfield AZ, DAW Discount Audio in Paramount CA and M12 Audio in Bluefield WVA,  Jam City Pros in Caddo Mills TX, Finishline Shop in Lumberton NJ, Genuine Custom Audio in Riverside CA,Ballistic Autowerks in Hagerstown MD, Jeff’s Custom Car Audio in Royce TX, Pitbull’s in Houston, Aspen Sound in North Spokane WA, CP Designs in Jarrell TX and D&B Sales in Ft Wayne IN, Precision Custom Audio in Riverview FL, The King of Custom, Active Sound in NC,  Car Stereo Plus in Sumter SC,  Audioworks DE in Newark DE, Active Sounds in NC  Speed Car Audio in Dallas, Voodoo Customs in Luling LA,  BK Customs 616 in Grand Rapids MI, TPD HiFI in Broken Bow OK, HiFi Crusin’ in Hattiesburg MS, Superior Audio Sounds in San Angelo TX Intense Kustom Audio in Brentwod NY, California Audio in West Valley UT, H A  Ross Entertainment, Voodoo Customs in Haltom TX, Absolutely Creative Customs in Boulder CO, Mobile Sound in Temecula CA, Redline Auto Sports in Hicksville NY, Sparked Innovations in Knoxville TN and Boosted Build in Warrenton OR.

Congratulations to all.

WTF……Win This Friday……See the next 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel on Friday, August 15th.

Custom Sounds At The Sturgis Rally 2025 With Rockford Fosgate, Kenwood and Hertz

STURGIS, SD (8.08.25) – Custom Sounds is on site, with a large footprint, and is having a great Motorcycle Rally in Sturgis for the 85th Anniversary. Custom Sounds is fully stocked on all motorcycle audio kits from Rockford Fosgate, Kenwood and Hertz. The Custom Sounds Team is certainly jammin’ in downtown Sturgis with bike demos on site for each brand.

Custom Sounds was jammin’ in downtown Sturgis with Rockford Fosgate, Kenwood and Hertz.
Tents set up as install bays were filled with bikes.
Custom Sounds Mike Cofield (R) and Gary Biggs from Momentum Marketing pictured as they toured the large booth footprint.

Gary Biggs-Momentum Marketing and David Magana from Elettromedia USA are on hand to support Mike Cofield and his sales and installation teams. Momentum Marketing members Ben Pugh and Jimmy Bradfield are also on site for the Sturgis
Rally 2025.

This Tech is working hard completing this installation.
This image shows the scope of the footprint size.

Biggs stated “Mike and the Custom Sounds Team are a well-oiled machine when selling and installing Rockford Fosgate, Hertz and Kenwood motorcycle audio systems.”

Cofield related “I love my vendors and sales reps and I get such great support from them. Everything at the Sturgis rally 2025 has been absolutely great.

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is the largest in the world and is held annually in the Black Hills and in Sturgis SD the first 10 days of August.

Momentum Marketing’s Jimmy Bradfield (L)and Mike Tang, with Team Progressive, are supporting Rockford Fosgate with stops at multiple booths across the Sturgis Rally.

For more see customsounds.com.

MTX MA Marine Amplifiers Now Available

PHOENIX, AZ (08.08.25) – MTX, a MiTek Electronics and Communications company, is excited to announce the new line of MTX Marine Amplifiers is now available for purchase and shipping. These new models take the proven power and performance of the THUNDER series amplifiers and outfit them for life on the water.

Each model features a conformal-coated circuit board to protect against moisture and salt, along with stainless steel hardware to prevent long-term corrosion. Compact chassis designs allow for flexible installation, while real-world dynotested output ensures consistent, high-performance sound in any setup.

Inside, every amplifier runs on efficient Class-D circuitry for cooler operation and lower power draw. Installers and users will appreciate thoughtful features like concealed top-mount tuning controls and clip detection lights for precise setup. Mono and five-channel models also include an external bass control
remote.

Each unit has a unique “birth certificate” that showcases individually tested power ratings that
often exceed the listed specifications. This unwavering attention to detail ensures that consumers
receive reliable, high-performance equipment that is designed to exceed expectations.

Advanced Marine Features

  • Conformal-coated circuit boards for water and salt protection
  • Corrosion-resistant stainless steel hardware
  • High-efficiency Class D design for powerful, cool-running performance
  • 1-ohm stability on mono and five-channel subwoofer outputs
  • External bass control remote included (mono and 5ch models)
  • Clip detection light for precise tuning
  • Concealed top-mount controls for a clean install
  • High-level 10V input and Tiffany-style RCA connections
  • Built-in protection against thermal, short, and voltage issues
  • Dyno Power Rating Certificate included with every amp
    The new Marine series includes mono-block, four-channel, five-channel, and six-channel models,
    covering a wide range of system configurations.

Please visit MTX.com for more information or to find a dealer.

MTX Dealers – contact your representative for exclusive details.

2025 SEMA Show: The Center of the Automotive Universe Returns

DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.08.25) – The automotive aftermarket is coming together in a big way for the 2025 SEMA Show, with 4.6 million square feet of exhibit space booked by thousands of leading brands for the industry’s most important gathering of the year. Taking over the entire Las Vegas Convention Center campus Nov. 4-7, 2025, the Show underscores the strong commitment of manufacturers, service providers, and innovators eager to connect, showcase their latest products, and shape the future of the industry.

“While the broader market is navigating uncertainty, the SEMA Show is a clear signal of strength, innovation, and opportunity across the automotive aftermarket industry,” said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. “We’re delivering a high-energy event that reflects where the industry is headed—driven by product, passion, and purpose.”

With more than 2,000 exhibitors, the SEMA Show continues to be the place where business gets done. From groundbreaking technology and next-generation tools and products to expert-led education and face-to-face networking, the Show offers everything automotive aftermarket professionals need to stay competitive in today’s fast-changing landscape. It’s where relationships are built, products are evaluated, strategies are sharpened, and opportunities come to life.

Thousands of iconic brands will participate in the 2025 SEMA Show, including eBay Motors, Holley Performance Brands, Hoonigan, Hunter Engineering, Optima, Rockford Fosgate, Snap-on, SPARQ, WeatherTech, and many others.

“SEMA is where innovation meets influence, and for SPARQ, we’re honored to be a part of the conversation with exciting plans to introduce new products to SPARQ’s ecosystem,” said SPARQ Co-founder Daniel Nieh. “As a startup pushing the boundaries of automotive technology, exhibiting at SEMA allows us to connect directly with the community that’s shaping the future of the industry—builders, technicians, brands, and enthusiasts alike. It’s not just about showcasing what SPARQ can do; it’s about listening, collaborating, and helping redefine what’s possible.”

Highlighting the 2025 SEMA Show will be participation from a strong lineup of Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM), including Ford Performance, Honda Racing Corporation USA (HRC), MOPAR/Stellantis, Nissan, and Toyota.

“SEMA is a great platform for Toyota to share our passion for performance and serves as a test bed for our creative and innovative ideas,” said Mike Tripp, Group Vice President of Toyota Marketing. “We are always blown away with how this community engages with our brand and showcases our vehicles to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the automotive industry.”

Innovation across the industry is surging, fueled by a wave of new product launches debuting at the Show. The New Products Showcase will highlight more than 2,000 cutting-edge entries spanning 15 product categories. The SEMA FutureTech Studio will return as another innovation center, showcasing new technologies shaping the marketplace. From internal combustion engines to EVs, hydrogen, hybrids, and synthetic fuels, a wide range of propulsion technologies is powering one of the most dynamic product development cycles the industry has ever seen.

“SEMA represents the heart of the automotive aftermarket industry which aligns perfectly with our mission at Revv,” said Adi Bathla, CEO and Co-founder of Revv. “SEMA continues to be the epicenter of automotive innovation, and we’re constantly pushing boundaries.”

The SEMA Show is maxing out the campus with a diverse and strategic brand mix and exceptional category breadth that reflects the full scope of the industry. The addition of the new International Pavilion reinforces the SEMA Show’s role as a hub for the global automotive marketplace.

Long considered a bucket list item for many car lovers, the Show will open its doors to automotive enthusiasts on Friday, Nov. 7, for SEMA Show Friday – Open to the Public, giving car culture fans a special opportunity to peek behind the curtain of the automotive aftermarket. It’s a powerful way to connect the passion of the enthusiast community with the business of innovation.

“The SEMA Show is gaining momentum heading into November, with continued growth and strong industry support,” said SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins. “From special events to education to product reveals, we’re delivering a fully immersive experience that celebrates where the industry is now and where it’s going next.”

Attendees are encouraged to register early to maximize their ROI; registration is only $50 for qualified attendees who register by June 27. Participants can also make hotel reservations at guaranteed low rates exclusively for Show attendees through SEMA’s official hotel provider.

Spaces are still available for companies who would like to exhibit and connect with thousands of qualified buyers at the 2025 SEMA Show. For more information, visit www.semashow.com/exhibitor.

For information about the 2025 SEMA Show or to register, visit www.semashow.com. To view this year’s floorplan, log on to www.semashow.com/floorplan.

Kenwood And The Audio Edge At The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally 2025

STURGIS, SD (08.07.25) – Once again, Kenwood has a very large footprint at the Sturgis Rally with terrific support from The Audio Edge and their team driving sales and installations in the Kenwood setup. Installations took place under large canopies adjacent to Kenwood’s footprint. Momentum Marketing team members Jimmy Bradfield, Gary Biggs and Ben Pugh are also on site supporting brands that Momentum Marketing represents in the TOLA territory.

The Audio Edge installation area is underneath several large canopies.

Chris Hulin and his The Audio Edge team rolled out of company HQ in Nederland TX for the 1380 mile drive to Sturgis early Saturday morning July 26th. He was behind the extended cab wheel and pulling a 24’ trailer filled supplies and accessories they would need for many, many installations.

The Audio Edge team gathered for this image. James Duvall, Doug Hunsburger, David Hampson, Willie Lujan, Mitchell Davis, Kameron Landry, Manuel Parada, and Chris Hulin.
Chris Hulin-The Audio Edge, Ben Pugh-Momentum Marketing, Doug Hunsburger-The Audio Edge and David Hampson-Stereo West (LtoR) who came up from Omaha to help.

In an interview with Bradfield, Hulin The Audio Edge President stated “We are having another fantastic Sturgis Rally installing the best Kenwood motorcycle products and accessories. Working together, we have already hit an all-time record on the number of bikes that we have been able to complete and we still have six days until we head home to Texas. Everyone here is looking forward to working together again at the 86th Annual Sturgis Rally next year.”

Doug Hunsburger who jumped in to help a biker.
Kenwood Josh Bowen working late at night to prepare the ribeyes on the Blackstone grill for the team.

Momentum Marketing’s Ben Pugh is on site in Sturgis to support The Audio Edge. Pugh stated “It’s been an incredible first rally working with Momentum, The Audio Edge and Kenwood. I’m very excited to see and experience the passion the motorcycle community, our industry and that everyone of our partners have to drive bike business.”

Kenwood’s newest Regional Sales Manager, Josh Bowen, knows the importance of keeping The Audio Edge Team well-fed and has been on Ribeye Blackstone Grill duty at the 85th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Bowen will cover the Central region. “All the guys said Josh’s ribeyes were the best they’ve eaten at 10PM in a parking lot cooked by a Kenwood Regional at a Rally” Bradfield added.

There will be more to come from Kenwood, The Audio Edge and the Momentum Marketing from the Sturgis Rally 2025. Stay tuned to the 12volt Central Studios.

ZZTSL — Finally A True Integration Kit That Brings Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto to Teslas

BOCA RATON, FL (08.07.25) – “Does Tesla have CarPlay?” Yes – it’s here with ZZTSL from ZZ2. Dealers: don’t miss this game-changer.

Problem:
Tesla doesn’t offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto—its closed system, keeps you stuck with limited apps. Owners complain:

“Tesla 3P apps are garbage… miss Apple CarPlay.” dailytelegraph.com.aurivianforums.com+4reddit.com+4topspeed.com+4

“No CarPlay is a deal breaker. WTF?” teslamotorsclub.com

Introducing ZZTSL, a true Plug & Play hardware based solution, which intercepts the video signal from the MCU to the screen.

•⁠ ⁠NOT a BROWSER based solution
•⁠ ⁠⁠NOT a USB based solution
•⁠ ⁠⁠NO hotspot required
•⁠ ⁠⁠NO interference with the OE Tesla APP environment

Features

  • Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto full screen or PiP (picture-in-picture) modes available
  • Completely re-designed specifically for a TESLA environment
  • Retains factory safety display features
  • Integrates the CarPlay/Android Auto icon to the MENU bar for a factory look
  • Works on Model 3 (2017‑2024) & Model Y (2020‑2024/25)
  • 3‑year warranty

💡 ATTENTION Dealers & Installers:
Tesla says “No.” ZZ2 says “Yes!” Offer customers the smartphone experience they’ve been desperately asking for in TESLA Vehicles.

Visit zz-2.com for more.

Industry Veteran Rex Berfield Joins Rydeen As Strategic Sales Leader

TORRANCE, CA (08.07.25) – Rydeen Mobile Electronics is proud to announce the addition of Rex Berfield to its leadership team as Strategic Sales Manager. With over 35 years of experience in the 12-volt industry, Rex brings unmatched knowledge, a proven track record, and deep relationships across the mobile electronics sector.

A seasoned executive, Rex has spent more than two decades in executive sales management, including over 20 years representing a major manufacturer and 12 years managing a successful distribution business. His unique blend of experience across both manufacturing and distribution makes him an asset to Rydeen’s continued expansion and innovation in the mobile electronics marketplace.

“Rex’s understanding of the 12-volt landscape and his ability to build and lead strong sales networks aligns perfectly with our growth goals,” said Phil Maeda CEO. “We’re excited to have him onboard to strengthen our presence on the East Coast and to develop new sales channels.”

In his new role, Rex will oversee Rydeen’s sales initiatives across the East Coast, focusing on both established and emerging channels. He will also play a key role in identifying and expanding into new markets, bringing Rydeen’s innovative product line to a broader audience.

“I’m thrilled to join the Rydeen team,” said Rex Berfield. “Rydeen’s commitment to cutting-edge technology and customer-first solutions is exactly the kind of company I want to help grow. I look forward to contributing to the brand’s continued success.”

With this strategic hire, Rydeen reinforces its commitment to leadership, innovation, and responsive customer support throughout the mobile electronics industry.

For sales inquiries or more information, please contact Rydeen Mobile at 310-787-7880 or sales@rydeenmobile.com.

Tune Time Hosted Car Audio And Coffee With SQ Show 5

REDLANDS, CA (8.06.25) Tune Time Stereo and Alarm is a very proactive retailer in the Redlands community. Richard Papasin was on site and provided a lot of great information from the event on Saturday, August 2nd.. EMMA USA, WCA and US Acoustics were title sponsors of the event.

Competitors gather for this group image as the day wrapped. Richard Papasin is pictured on the left.

Mike Stoeckmann, Tune Time owner was thrilled to have a great turnout and support from the industry. Fred Lynch-Arc Audio, Wayne Smedle-Paragon Sales, who reps products from ORCA brands Focal, Mosconi and MUSWAY plus with Mike Nichols of US Acoustics were on site through the event.

The GLADEN pickup and MUSWAY car in the in the background were vendor vehicles on site.
This Tesla Club demo was a sweet treat for all.

Stoeckmann related “We had 17 competitors on site along with a group of enthusiast that wanted to learn more about car audio and other in-vehicle upgrades. Our business is strong and we plan for long-term activities to keep driving business. We had numerous demo vehicles out front and people really like the demo that I provided in my loaded Tesla. Demo vehicles on site included the GLADEN Pickup, MUSWAY and several loaded demos plus classics.

There was a wide variety of demos in front of the Tune Time store.
Great store signage on the windows grab attention and features the phone number right on the front for people to call.

In-Store events with industry members working together will drive consumer engagement and drive brick and mortar business.

For more see tunetimestereo.com.

Driven Distribution Group Announces the Acquisition of Rick’s Auto Supply

ARLINGTON, TX (08.06.25) – Driven Distribution Group (DDG), a leading warehouse distributor of automotive aftermarket hard parts, consumables, and accessories, has announced the acquisition of Rick’s Auto Supply, based in Cabot, Arkansas. DDG is supported by HCI Equity Partners, a private equity firm headquartered in Washington, D.C. 

The new location will be branded and operated as an Eagle Auto Parts retail store. With 30 locations across Texas, Eagle Auto Parts is known as a trusted hometown parts supplier, specializing in automotive components, farm and fleet equipment, tools, and truck accessories. 

This marks a significant milestone for the Driven Distribution Group with their ongoing growth and dedication to providing industry-leading service. As the first Eagle-branded location in Arkansas, the Cabot store represents a bold advancement in expanding the retail and commercial footprint. Customers in the Cabot area will now benefit from faster, more reliable deliveries and a broader selection of parts. 

Charles Rick, former owner, began his journey in the automotive industry in 1967. What started as a simple visit to a closed parts store became a defining moment. “Throughout my time working with Tri-State, they consistently proved to be the most efficient supplier I had ever partnered with. The strength of that relationship, along with the exceptional level of service, gave me full confidence that Tri-State would be a valuable long-term partner for the future of my store and my customers,” said Charles Rick. 

Andy Hicks, Chief Transformation Officer for Driven Distribution Group stated, “By expanding our footprint and enhancing our service capabilities, we’re better positioned to support our customers, partners, and supplier network across key markets while aligning with our long-term growth strategy.” 

Visit www.hciequity.com and www.drivendistributiongroup.com