Elite Audio Celebrates 30 Years

Posted on June 2, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Elite Audio.

SPARTANBURG, SC (06.03.22) – Elite Audio has served the Spartanburg area since the early 1990’s and is celebrating the company’s 30th anniversary. To mark the occasion a custom 30 Year T-shirt was developed by owner Joe Zelano.

“It has been a fun journey to reach 30 years and we thought a custom T-shirt would spotlight the 3 decades. The limited edition T-shirt is a USA made cotton blend with our logo on the left chest and full on the back. Our 30-Year logo is on the left sleeve. We made a post on Instagram about the T-Shirt and the response has been very strong with followers wanting to get one.”

*Joe Zelano proudly holds an Elite Audio 30-Year T-Shirt in his office area. Various magazine and newspaper articles plus awards are framed in the background.*

Zelano added “Knowing how we do things it’s a high quality T-shirt. And customers who picked one up have commented on the high quality.”

*Boxes of the T-shirts displayed. Supply issues actually delayed the arrival of the T-shirts.*

Through the years Elite Audio has expanded the product mix far beyond car stereo. “We had to diversity what we offer to stay on top of the scene. Without automotive aftermarket products car stereo would only go so far. It’s not like the ’90’s when there were 10 plus car audio only shops in an area. The shops that did not diversity are pretty much gone today. Retailers must stay up with the trends and stay active with all categories in the automotive industry-not just car audio” Zelano related.

*Social media posts like this showcase exciting work Elite Audio is doing plus highlights the company storefront.*

*Social media posts highlight the PowerSports category which drives awareness and sales for Elite Audio.*

To stay in front of followers and consumers Elite Audio makes frequent social media posts. On Instagram over 2200 followers can see posts that feature various installation and vehicles. Frequently posts feature a vehicle out front with the company’s signage in the background.

The Elite Audio staff includes 7 full time professionals plus 2 part time employees. The product mix includes car audio, video, remote start, safety, convenience, connectivity, wheels, tires, suspension, lighting and accessories. The Powersports, bike and marines categories have added to the company’s offerings.

Visit eliteaudioonline.com for more.

See the 12voltSTP Tool at Work for Companies Across the US

Posted on June 2, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged STP.

SHREVEPORT, LA (06.03.22) – In today’s world, and the 12volt world, it’s hard to find positive news. The 12volt News, and the 12volt Central Studios staffs, work to deliver positive industry news each business day. Creating the 12voltSTP Tool was another example of making it easy for industry members to deliver their company’s brand and activities to members of the 12volt industry.

The images below show The SEMA HSVB initiative at Santa Ynez Valley High Schoo, KICKER at the American Flat Track at the Red Mile in Lexington KY, RPM Sales at the Hi-Tech Midnight Madness sale and MSC America training at Dynamic Audio in Lodi CA. See even more @12voltnews on Instagram and Facebook for more examples of the 12voltSTP Tool at work. To see over 500 posts #12voltstp on Instagram.

The 12volt STP Tool makes it easier than ever to showcase your company’s positive activities and products. Snap..Txt..Presto.. your company’s positive news and activities could be in the news. 318 465 0844 is the number. With the advent of social media, Facebook and Instagram platforms became key vehicles to deliver information and news. The fact remains people still need, and look forward to, receiving positive news. That is also true for the business realm that includes the 12volt Industry.

Today, a vast percentage of people spend hours and hours on their mobile devices each day. Reports are the average person spends 7 hours a day on their smartphone.

To deliver fresh industry news to members of the mobile electronics industry the 12volt Central Studios makes multiple posts on Instagram and Facebook each business day. The 12volt STP Tool was created in 2020 for members of the 12volt industry to send their news to the 12volt Central Studios. Snap and Txt an image to 318-465-0844. Presto, your positive news could be delivered to members of the 12volt industry.

On Instagram and Facebook, @12voltnews has over 10,000 followers on each platform. Those followers are dedicated members of the 12volt industry.

Click to see over 500 posts #12voltstp on Instagram.

Look forward to seeing your company’s brand and activities in the 12volt News.

DAS Announces Key Placement for Consumer Electronics and Heavy-Duty Divisions

Posted on June 1, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Featured and tagged DAS.

PALMYRA, PA (May 2022) – DAS Companies Inc., the 12-volt Consumer Electronic industry’s premier Mid-Atlantic distributor, has announced the appointment of Ken Litten as Sales and Marketing Manager for its Consumer Electronics and Heavy-Duty divisions.

Ken has over 25 years of experience in the Consumer Electronics Industry and has been with DAS for the last nine years as Territory Manager for Virginia. Litten, a certified MECP, will head up the sales and marketing efforts for the CE and HD divisions. He will work with both inside and outside sales teams to support, motivate and optimize existing sales efforts and marketing programs. In addition, he will create and manage external communications with dealers via social media platforms and implement campaigns. His responsibilities will also include the organization of annual and divisional events.

“We are excited for Ken to take on this critical role within the organization,” said Rex Berfield, National Sales Manager for the CE division. “With his vast experience in the consumer electronics industry, he will bring a fresh approach to serve our customers further and increase sales.”

Visit www.DASINC.com for more.

SiriusXM Sets Sail with Yacht Rock Performances from Kenny Loggins and Christopher Cross

Posted on June 1, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged SiriusXM.

NEW YORK – May 31, 2022 – SiriusXM has announced that yacht rock vanguards Kenny Loggins and Christopher Cross will celebrate the summer season with a special invitation-only concert cruise for SiriusXM listeners on Monday, June 13.

SiriusXM Presents Yacht Rock the Boat with Kenny Loggins and Christopher Cross will feature Loggins and Cross performing their smoothest hits for Yacht Rock Radio listeners and fans as they set sail around New York City on the Horizon’s Edge yacht. The performances will also be heard on SiriusXM’s Yacht Rock Radio on Friday, June 17 at 8:00 pm ET.

“At the time we were creating this new kind of music that was happening organically – we had no idea it would turn into what is now known as Yacht Rock. I’m excited to bring it all full circle and perform some of those same songs on a yacht for the first time in my career,” said Kenny Loggins.

SiriusXM’s Yacht Rock Radio features smooth-sailing soft rock from the late 70s and early 80s from artists like Michael McDonald, Kenny Loggins, Steely Dan, Christopher Cross, Toto, America, Ambrosia and more. It’s the kind of rock that doesn’t rock the boat. Yacht Rock Radio will be available all summer long from Wednesday, June 1 through Monday, September 5 on SiriusXM radios (ch. 14) and on the SXM App. The channel is also available year-round on SiriusXM channel 311.

For information on how to attend SiriusXM Presents Yacht Rock the Boat with Kenny Loggins and Christopher Cross, please visit: www.siriusxm.com/YachtRockNewYork

SiriusXM’s Yacht Rock Radio is available to subscribers nationwide on SiriusXM radios, the SXM App, and with Amazon Alexa, the Google Assistant or however they stream at home. Streaming access is included with all of SiriusXM’s trials and most popular plans.

Design Engineering Releases Dyno Strap Heat Guard

Posted on June 1, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Design Engineering.

AVON LAKE, OHIO – Prevent damage and burn-through of critical dynamometers tie-downs with DEI’s Dyno Strap Heat Guard (#10466).

Developed to add a protective layer to dyno straps that run close to exhaust exits or other hot areas of an operating vehicle, the protective sheaths are made of a high-temperature-resistant aluminized material to withstand 500°F direct heat and 2000°F of radiant heat.

“It started with a frantic call from a local tuner shop, asking if we offered a protective heat sleeve for dynamometer tie-down straps,” said Mike Buca, DEI Product Manager. “It seems this tuner nearly launched a car while on the dyno because the exhaust heat exiting the tailpipe actually burned through an already weakened area on the strap.”

Dyno Strap Heat Guard protects against such scenarios by easily slipping on over standard tie-downs, allowing them to be positioned near exhaust pipe exits. The sheaths measure 5″-wide-by-36″-long and include an attractive silver finish.

For more information about Dyno Strap Heat Guard and DEI’s complete line of performance heat and sound control products, visit www.DesignEngineering.com.

Jammin’ N June… It’s Summertime

Posted on May 31, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Featured and tagged Jammin N June.

12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (06.01.2022) – “Jammin’ N June… It’s Summertime and time to ‘Crank It Up’! Get Jammin’ N June with great gear for your ride. HiTech in-dash media, powerful amps and speakers that rock will get your ride Jammin’ N June.”

Those words, and that message, can grab the attention of consumers and create store traffic for 12volt retailers.

Online sales have been on a steady rise for the past several years. The COVID-19 Pandemic, along with stimulus checks, led to a dramatic spike in overall 12volt sales. Jammin’ N June themed activities by proactive 12volt retailers can drive consumer awareness and traffic into stores….. and very importantly drive sales.

It’s imperative that 12volt retailers create a powerful in-store experience for consumers in the showroom. An impressive demonstration will bring a smile to the consumer’s face and can raise the hair on their arms.

In most sections of the U.S. 12volt store traffic, and sales, have been strong for 12volt retailers. Sound-Off events and in-person activities are creating excitement. These facts indicate 12volt enthusiasts are ready to Crank It Up and get Jammin’ N June.

From the 12volt Central Studios we will continue to showcase positives across the 12volt industry. The new 12voltSTP Tool makes that easier than ever. Snap an image with your smartphone. Txt that image to 318-465-0844. PRESTO. Your image could be in the news.

As an industry ‘Let’s Get Our Shine On.’ Let’s get Jammin’ N June!

Much more to come from the 12volt Central Studios.

RDV Automotive Announces 3 New Products to Enhance In-Vehicle Wireless Connectivity

Posted on May 31, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged RDV Automotive.

POMPANO BEACH, FL (06.01.22) – RDV Automotive Technology has announced the launch of 3 new products. The CP/AA-MIRROR, STREAMER and DROID are new products that are IN STOCK and SHIPPING from the RDV Warehouse in Florida.

CP/AA-MIRROR: GO WIRLESS! Converts wired CarPlay AND wired Android Auto to Wireless CarPlay AND Wireless Android Auto. Yes this will make Android Auto wireless! The CP/AA-MIRROR will also wirelessly mirror BOTH Android and IOS devices.

RAM 2GB / ROM 8GB / SIMPLE USB CONNECTION

STREAMER: Game changing product for Video Streaming! The STREAMER allows the user to watch any video streaming app on their factory* or aftermarket radio* and control it right from the OEM Touchscreen or TouchPad! No more using your phone to control your video apps! The STREAMER has an HDMI Output to provide HD Video to external monitors such as headrest or flip down monitors. This will also convert Wired CarPlay and Android Auto to wireless as it uses the OEM CarPlay input for display and control.

RAM 4GB / ROM 32GB / HDMI OUTPUT / ANDROID 11 / SIMPLE USB CONNECTION
*COMPATIBLE WITH MOST OEM and AFTERMARKET RADIOS

DROID: Another game changing product! The DROID adds Wireless Android Auto to vehicles that have CarPlay ONLY and no Android Auto at all. The DROID fully integrates Wireless Android Auto to the OEM system, uses all of the OEM hardware, screen, microphone, OEM controls and provides a seamless solution for Android users that got left out by the car manufacturers in their pursuit of CarPlay only radios.

4GB DDR3 (QUALCOMM SNAPDRAGON 8-CORE) / ROM 64GB / ANDROID 10″

For more info, visit RDVFL.com, email sales@rdvfl.com, or call 561-922-7747.

Automotive Entrepreneurs: Win a Business-Launching Prize Package

Posted on May 31, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged SEMA.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (06.01.22) – Emerging entrepreneurs and innovators of new automotive products are invited to enter their companies and brand-new inventions into the 2022 SEMA Launch Pad competition at www.sema.org/launchpad.

SEMA Launch Pad is the premier product-pitching competition for budding entrepreneurs in the automotive aftermarket industry. Through the program, selected applicants are hand-picked to receive brand exposure, access to business resources, and the chance to win a grand-prize package valued at $92,000 to launch their product or service into the marketplace.

“The automotive aftermarket is comprised of countless entrepreneurs who are extremely passionate about creating new products and providing solutions for enthusiastic car owners who love to modify, maintain, restore, or personalize their vehicles,” said RJ de Vera, SEMA vice president of marketing. “SEMA Launch Pad helps bring these emerging inventors to the forefront, providing a platform for them to potentially take their new creations to the next level.”

Fifteen semi-finalists will be selected in June to participate in the first round of pitching and be invited to exhibit at the 2022 SEMA Show in Las Vegas in November. The top five finalists will pitch their products to a panel of industry judges during the SEMA Show, where a final winner will be selected.

SEMA Launch Pad is open to business owners or company-leading executives (president, CEO, CFO, COO or vice president) over the age of 18. Applicants must offer a product or service that is a functioning prototype, functioning concept or currently for sale.

Applications to participate in SEMA Launch Pad must be submitted online at www.sema.org/launchpad by June 13, 2022.

KICKER Was Livin’ Loud at the American Flat Track Event in Lexington

Posted on May 30, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Featured and tagged Kicker.

LEXINGTON, KY (05.31.22) – The KICKER rig rolled into the Red Mile venue in Lexington for the Progressive American Flat Track’s inaugural Memorial Day weekend doubleheader Saturday and Sunday…May 28th and 29th. On Thursday, with Lorin Morrell behind the wheel of the Gator wrapped pickup, set up began. The 25’ trailer behind the pickup was packed with tent, tables and products for the KICKER setup on vendor row. The loaded KICKER RZR rolled out of the trailer to let all know KICKER would be Livin’Loud at the event.

*KICKER was set up Saturday morning. The Red Mile stands are on the left.*

*This Saturday afternoon Lorin Morrell selfie shows KICKER vendor row.*

“The Red Mile venue was a really good for vendors to set up and display their products to enthusiastic fans as they came in for the races. On Saturday the gates opened at 3 but we had been very busy before noon talking with other companies on vendor row and members of race teams as the came in to get ready to race. A little before 9 PM all was winding down. Sunday went pretty much for same way. The stands, which were designed for horse racing, seat 6000 and were near capacity both race days” Morrell related.

*The Red Mile stands were full and many could watch racers on the back straightaway on the Progressive Jumbotron.*

*Racers race past the crowd in the Red Mile stands.*

Continuing Morrell offered “This area of the country is really strong for marine with bike enthusiasts right behind. In fact I spent time in the booth talking to friends who rode their bikes in for the event. Both mentioned they both had KICKER gear in their cars years back. One was from New York and the other from Florida. In the RZR we conducted demos throughout both days. The Tower Speakers and SoundBar also showed marine applications. All who visited vendor row definitely knew KICKER was there and Livin’ Loud.”

*Visitors in the Mission vendor hospitality area could check out KICKER gear while picking up a tasty Mission Foods snack.*

*On Monday Morrell earned points as he fueled up the KICKER rig in Cairo, IL on the 800 mile drive to Stillwater, OK.*

KICKER also had a presence in the Mission sponsor hospitality area. The team in the KICKER HQ fab shop put together a super display that lighted up to spotlight products that could be used on bikes, marine and power sports.

Visit kicker.com for more.

Lorin Morrell was on lead on site throughout the event and contributed information and images.

A Visit to Santa Ynez Valley HS in CA for SEMA High School Vehicle Build

Posted on May 30, 2022 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged SEMA.

SANTA YNEZ, CA (05.31.22) – Ramsey Consulting, with Todd Ramsey leading the way, visited Santa Ynez Valley Union High School (one of the schools in the SEMA HSVB program) on Friday May, 27th. “We met up with Gary Semerdjian, the automotive instructor, on their Toyota 4Runner build project, talked to students and presented some of the career path options in automotive for those students interested in that direction” Ramsey stated.

*Gary Semerdjian, Greg Bunch and Todd Ramsey (L to R) give a big group thumbs up as they met Friday morning prior to meeting with the auto shop class members.*

Continuing, Ramsey related, “I brought with me two other professionals who are also in the automotive aftermarket business. Greg Bunch, who owns six independent automotive repair shops in the Colorado Springs, CO area (Aspen Auto Clinic), was on the visit. He and I grew up together in Camarillo, CA where we both first got into cars. Also Armando “Mondo” Roland, who owns a car audio shop (Atlas Custom Sound) located just north in Santa Maria, CA, joined us. These two businessmen spoke directly to the needs of independent businesses looking to hire motivated and qualified individuals in their growing businesses. The session turned out very nicely. Greg’s spoke to a group of over 2 dozen auto shop class members. It was perfect for Gary’s automotive class at the school.”

*Greg Bunch addressing the auto shop audience of over 20 students.*

Ramsey concluded, “The fact that Mondo came in as a car audio retailer was sort of similar to when Ed Nuttall came in to my visit to the Mon Valley CTC class south of Pittsburgh. Mondo actually helped Gary with a couple electrical wiring and audio install-related tips as the schools 4Runner gets closer to its mid-September finish line. All in all, we had a very productive visit with Gary and his shop class at the Santa Ynez Valley High School.”