See The 12VoltSTP Tool at Work for Companies Across the US

SHREVEPORT, LA (04.26.22) – 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 in this article showcase Vickers AV with a new Crunch amplifier, The KICKER set up Desert Storm in Lake Havasu, DS18 at a mega event in Puerto Rico plus MaxPro Film ready for the window tint season. All in the last few days.

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 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 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.

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

Visit instagram.com/12voltnews for more.

GM Confirms Electric Corvette Coming “Quick”

This article was written by Paul A. Eisenstein for TheDetroitBureau.com

DETROIT, MI (04.26.22) – General Motors will begin electrifying the Chevrolet Corvette next year, GM President Mark Reuss announced Monday, confirming previous reports by TheDetroitBureau.com.

The two-seater often referred to as “America’s sports car” will go through several steps, starting with a hybridized version and then an all-electric model, the automaker indicated. While the news immediately generated buzz in automotive circles it was not unexpected, the automaker previously laying out plans to go 100% battery electric by 2035.

“We will have an electrified Corvette next year,” Reuss said during an appearance on CNBC. “It’s coming very quick.”

Separately, GM Chairman and CEO Mary Barra tweeted, “Electrified Corvette. That’s it. That’s the tweet.”

The Corvette, which is approaching its 70th anniversary, has gone through a number of changes in recent years. The latest version, known to aficionados as the “C8,” or eighth-generation Corvette, made the switch from a traditional front-engine to mid-engine layout.

GM President Mark Reuss confirmed today the company will build an all-electric Corvette. Photo Credit: CNBC.com

Prepping for this moment

At the time of the sports car’s launch in 2019, several senior members of the Corvette team told TheDetroitBureau.com they had built into the program the ability to electrify the new model. At the time, they declined to say whether that meant a conventional hybrid, a plug-in version or an all-electric model.

Sources suggest the first electrified version due out next year will be some form of hybrid, spy photographers capturing what appear to be test “mules” several times during the last several years. In terms of nomenclature, it could pick up the ZR1 badge, though a new designation referencing its hybridized drivetrain could be adopted.

A 100% electric Corvette will follow, it now has become clear — though that leaves open a number of questions. For one thing: will the BEV model use the existing ‘Vette platform or share one of the new “Ultium” architectures GM is developing for the rest of the line-up.

Also unclear is how many motors would be used in an all-electric model. All but certainly, there would be a minimum of two — which would create the first-ever all-wheel-drive version of the Corvette. But GM’s Ultium system provides the ability to use three motors — as are found in the new GMC Hummer, and potentially even four.

What’s clear is the all-electric Corvette’s battery pack would be mounted below the two-seater’s load floor, helping drop what is already an extremely low center of gravity. Add to that the all-wheel-drive system and the ability to torque vector. That’s a way of shifting extra power to the outside wheels while cornering to enhance high-speed handling.

Click here to continue reading this article on TheDetroitBureau.com

Safe & Sound Opens an Ultimate Home AV and 12volt In-Store Experience

CHICOPEE, MA (04.25.22) – Safe & Sound is a very proactive 12volt and Home AV specialist located in Chicopee MA. Established in 1983 by Mike Laventure, the Company recently moved to a larger location 18,000 square-foot facility. A total renovation was completed. A stunning display area was orchestrated with 5Axis Innovations.

Matt Herald-Trent Partners, David and Mike Laventure and Jody Culbertson (LtoR) pictured after a Safe & Sound tour.
This Before and After picture is definitely worth 1000 words!

Mike Laventure and son David, along with seven employees, create exciting audio and video experiences for their customers. The saying that a picture is worth 1000 words has never been more true than with the Safe and Sound makeover. The images in this article show the scope of the Home AV and 12volt category presentations.

Home AV selection showcased.
Each of these Home AV products include a tag discretely placed with model and price.

During a lengthy phone call with David he mentioned when old customers come into the new location the first thing they do is say WOW!… and grab their phones to start taking images of the new set up.

On the 12volt side separate display areas feature high-end car, mid-range car, DSP and Marine. There are three installation bays plus installation facilities from the previous location located just a few miles down the road.

12volt product selection is wide… and LIVE.
This display is live and ready to impress.

Home AV products are displayed in separate rooms and showroom areas. Large screen monitors and lighted graphics make every inch of the showroom come alive. With the latest technology, every car audio and Home AV speaker in the showroom can play the same music at the same time. Talk about an in-store experience!

This large digital sign lets all know Safe & Sound is open in their new Chicopee location.

Jody Culbertson, 5Axis Innovations Principal, related “When we were approached by Mike it quickly looked, due to the size of the proposed project, that I travel to their store in Chicopee. Once there we spent a lot of time and actually sketched out ideas on the unfinished concrete floor. Over the following months there was much back-and-forth as we discussed options leading up to the final design and installation. Overall this project took almost 2 years. When we completed the fabrication of displays, cabinets, counters and shelving materials it filled one entire 53′ semi plus another partial semi load.

Amazing work. The finished Safe & Sound project is spectacular. More images may be seen on Instagram @safeandsoundhq and @5axisinnovations.

Paragon Sales And Marketing Hosted an AudioControl Dealer Training Session

CORONA, CA (4.25.22) – Thursday evening, April 21st, Paragon Sales and Marketing hosted another successful AudioControl training session at the Company’s facility in Corona CA. Food, refreshments, Epicenter demos plus demo cars were on the schedule along with a lot of industry co-mingling for the more than 20 area dealers in the house.

The AudioControl training took place in the Paragon Sales warehouse area where door rolls up for easy access to demo vehicles outside.

Mike Rios related, “We touched on Dynamat to start off our training by reminding dealers in attendance how important it is to control the environment of the car to achieve great sound.”

Continuing, Rios related, “We then moved to the AudioControl Epicenter training as we set up an Epicenter to a d5.1300 by AudioControl hooked up to two sets of Gladen 12″ subs and showed on a live DM-RTA the set up showing what an Epicenter does acoustically. We proceeded to explain how to properly set up an Epicenter and the difference it makes…leading to  reason we have our Legacy Epicenter and Epicenter Micro.

Wayne Smedile and Aaron Davis conducted the meeting with a big hand from Mike Rios.

Wayne Smedile and Aaron Davis conducted the meeting with a big hand from Mike Rios who supplied info and images for this article.

Concluding, Rios offered, “We plan to host these dealer sessions quarterly. Since we began the trainings the number off dealers attending has been growing. Our setup is great as the warehouse door rolls up so dealers can check out the vehicle demos outside and then return to seats in the warehouse for the meeting presentation.”

Paragon represents Focal, Mosconi, Illusion Audio, Gladen, Blackhole, AudioControl, ARCAudio, Dynamat, Mobile Solutions and Concept.

For more see www.paragonsalesreps.com

ASA Electronics Welcomes Marketing Director Rachel West

ELKHART, IN (04.25.22) – ASA Electronics has hired Rachel West as the Marketing Director for ASA Electronics after Monica Pletcher’s retirement. In this role, West will manage the marketing team and handle strategic planning, digital marketing, and brand management. She brings 12 years of combined education and experience in the RV industry.

“We are thrilled to have Rachel with us. Her leadership and drive for continued improvement are exactly what we were looking for in a Marketing Director. She’s a breath of fresh air,” stated Brent Barrow, President of ASA Electronics.

“I’m excited to work for a company with such a great reputation amongst its employees and partners,” commented Rachel West. “ASA Electronics has an innovative product offering and a diverse customer base, providing our team with the opportunity to work with many different industries and audiences.”

Rachel’s first goals are to put her focus and efforts toward customers and clients.

“We want to continue supporting them and providing them with the assets and details they and their customers need to feel confident in our product.”

Visit asaelectronics.com for more.

Jo-Di’s Sound Center Wins NavAtlas Prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Spin 175

SHREVEPORT LA (04.23.22) WTF…Win This Friday. Jo-Di’s Sound Center
won the NavAtlas prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 175 on Friday morning, April 22nd. Jo-Di’s is a very well established 12volt retailer with 3 stores in Connecticut.

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 4.

The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for 175th time on Friday morning April 22nd. The Wheel landed on the NavAtlas space and the Jo-Di’s Sound Center 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 Jo-Di’s in Orange and spoke with Gary. A second call was made to Anthony in West Hartford CT. Both were very happy to hear a NavAtlas prize will be headed to Jo-Di’s.

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, AIS, PowerBass, CRUX, DS18, SoundStream, JBL, Kenwood, Power Acoustik, JVC and USASpec. 12volt News $100. cash awards have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for a 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 and California Sound in Fontana CA. Congratulations to all.

WTF… Where’s the Fun. On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel… on Friday, April 29th.

Automotive Specialty-Equipment Sales Surpass Pre-Pandemic Levels

DIAMOND BAR, CA (04.22.22) – The specialty-equipment industry continues to experience strong growth and demand as the U.S. puts COVID-19 in the rearview mirror. According to the new “State of the Industry–Spring 2022” report from the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), 75% of manufacturers, 68% of distributors, and 53% of retailers/installers report that sales are currently above where they were prior to the pandemic, and consumer demand continues to remain robust for most companies.

However, despite strong industry growth, concerns remain due to ongoing supply chain issues, inflation, economic uncertainty, and the war in Ukraine.

The report, which includes 70 pages of new industry data, helps companies make better business decisions by highlighting current industry trends, business metrics, and estimates on how sales have changed over the last year, and it highlights the ongoing supply chain disruptions many organizations are being challenged with. It also provides a pulse check on consumers as they navigate economic uncertainty and deal with significant price increases on many of the products and services that they buy.

Additional key findings from the report include:

  • More than half of companies expect sales to continue to grow in the coming year.
  • Supply chain issues remain a challenge for over 90% of the industry, and most don’t see things returning to normal until at least 2023.
  • The current inflation rate of 8.5% is the highest it has been in 40 years, yet consumers continue to spend.
  • Despite gas prices being up over 40% on average from where they were last year, 80% of Americans still plan to take a road trip this summer.
  • Amid record consumer demand, 70% of manufacturers, 56% of distributors, and 45% of retail installers have had difficulty filling open positions due to a shortage of qualified applicants to hire.

The complete “State of the Industry—Spring 2022” report is available to download for free at www.sema.org/research.

Tint World Expands to a Fifth Location in Tennessee

MURFREESBORO, TN (04.22.22) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers continues its streak of rapid expansion as it announces the opening of its fifth Tennessee franchise, located in Murfreesboro.

Owned and operated by Craig and Anna Nangle, the new store provides full-service automotive styling, window tinting and automotive aftermarket accessories to Murfreesboro and the surrounding area.

“We can’t fully express how delighted we are to be given the opportunity to serve automotive enthusiasts in the Murfreesboro area,” Anna Nangle said. “With the resources and support we get through this outstanding franchise system, we’re going to make Tint World Murfreesboro the destination center for our community’s automotive styling and detailing needs.”

“Craig and Anna are an incredible part of our growing Tint World family,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, CEO and president of Tint World. “They are immensely passionate about expanding the brand’s service options in Murfreesboro, and we know they will do an excellent job of providing quality products and service to their clientele. Craig and Anna are focused on building their business in a way that supports the local community, and we’re proud to help them accomplish this goal.”

Tint World Murfreesboro is located at 1610 NW Broad St, Murfreesboro, TN 37129. To book an appointment, request a quote, or find out more about what the store offers, call 615-538-1881 or visit https://www.tintworld.com/locations/tn/murfreesboro-092.

Tint World Automotive Styling Centers offer sales and installation of auto accessories, mobile electronics, audio video equipment, security systems, custom wheels and tire packages, window tinting, vehicle wraps, paint protection films, detailing services, nano ceramic coatings, maintenance and repair services, and more. Tint World is also the leading provider of residential, commercial and marine computerized window tinting and security film services with locations throughout the U.S. and abroad, with franchise opportunities available worldwide.

MTX Audio Announces New Polaris RZR Pro XP Audio Kits and Components Now Shipping

PHOENIX, AZ (04.22.22) – MTX Audio, of the MiTek Electronics and Communications Group, is announcing that their all-new audio kits and components for the Polaris RZR Pro XP platform of vehicles are now in stock and shipping. Kits are compatible with 2020 and newer machines and install in existing factory locations.

The kits consist of four main packages that will work on Ride Command and non- Ride Command vehicles alike and will offer different levels of audio experience from the basic three speaker package to a complete five speaker system. The Ride Command kits feature a direct plug and play harness that connects into the vehicles system allowing full functionality right through the display screen while the non-Ride Command systems come with our AWMC3 full function media receiver as a source.

Additionally, there are two OE add-on kits available. The first allows a customer to add the PROXP-20- SW and MUD600-1 amplifier to an existing OE front two speaker system and the second option allows the addition of a pair of our MUD65PL rear speakers to an OE two or three speaker system. All kits come complete with direct-fit hardware and plug-n-play harnesses for a frustration-free installation.

The separate front component speakers and subwoofer enclosure is also available outside of a kit package for customers looking for the individual parts. The PROXP-20-FS component speaker system features our new ground up designed 6 ½” speaker pod that mounts in the factory location beneath the dash combined with a high output, soft dome tweeter that mounts on the top of the dash.

The PROXP-20-SW subwoofer enclosure features our high output 10-inch subwoofer in a high mounted, ported design that installs in the passenger side dash area. The enclosure is intended to be coupled with the MUD600-1 mono-block amplifier and features a front firing design to maximize bass output.

“The feedback and excitement over our new Polaris RZR Pro XP kit has been amazing.” said Director of Sales and Marketing, Jason Fickas. “Dealers and customers alike have expressed how much they have been looking forward to an audio solution for this platform and we’re happy to finally be able to deliver it.”

Be sure to follow us on social media or check out our website for more details as they develop.

Visit mtxaudio.com for more.

Alpine Unveils Exciting New Vehicle-Specific Products at the Annual Jeep Beach Vendor Show

AUBURN HILLS, MI (04.21.22) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”), will attend the 2022 Jeep Beach Vendor Show at the Daytona International Speedway in booth E1 from Friday, April 29 to Saturday, April 30 where they will unveil exciting new vehicle-specific products designed uniquely for the Jeep driver.

Featuring the latest in Jeep-specific dash and sound system offerings from Alpine, a 2018 Jeep Wrangler will be on-site for product demonstrations. Jeep Beach attendees will be the first to experience the new High-Resolution i509-WRA-JL with a High-Definition, Weather-Resistant 9-inch screen and wireless and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The i509-WRA-JL was intentionally designed with the Jeep driver in mind to visually emulate the design identity of the Jeep interior and retain the features Jeep drivers use the most. New to this display is High-Resolution Audio Playback (96kHz/24Bit) that can stream music from popular Hi-Res streaming platforms or directly from a smartphone for incredible music detail and high-precision music reproduction.

To demonstrate the head unit integration capabilities, the 2018 Jeep Wrangler will also feature a premium night vision DVR-C320R Dash Camera with built-in drive assist and impact recording. An Alpine PSS-24WRA sound system, with front 6.5” component speakers, 6.5” rear custom soundbar replacement speakers, 8” compact powered subwoofer, and 4-channel amplifier will be featured for in-vehicle sound upgrade demonstrations as well as an Alpine Weather-Resistant PSS-SX01 Sound System mounted to the roll bars to demonstrate exterior sound upgrade opportunities.

Alpine’s 2015 Jeep Wrangler will also be on-site with similar Jeep-specific solutions designed for older Jeep Wranglers, including the i509-WRA-JK, DVR-C320R, PSS-22WRA Weather-Resistant Sound System, PSS-SX01, and HCE-TCAM1-WRA Spare Tire Rear-View Camera and Light System.

“Switchback,” Alpine’s 2020 Jeep Gladiator, will also be on-site with a custom truck bed build that features 40 motorized Bluetooth speakers that articulate for optimal sound positioning, and a tailgate designed to look like an early Alpine stereo, complete with a large, functional volume knob and six classic “Alpine green” buttons on the faceplate to control the automation.

The Alpine Event Truck and Trailer will be open to visitors who want to chat with Alpine event staff and experience the latest vehicle-specific technology, all from the comfort of an air-conditioned lounge area located in the trailer.

All Alpine products are available for purchase during the event with special, event-only pricing and free giveaways. Alpine Authorized Retailer Roco 4×4 will be on-site to give vehicle demonstrations, answer product questions, and offer on-site installation so customers can drive home with their Alpine purchase installed in their Jeep.

Visit alpine-usa.com and jeepbeach.com for more.