LOVELAND, CO (01.11.22) – The KICKER AMA ArenaCross 6-City Series, with 10 races, kicked off January 7th and 8th at the Budweiser Events Center in Loveland, CO.
The Budweiser Events Center in Loveland, CO was the site of the January 7th and 8th KICKER AMA ArenaCross.
“It was cold with snow outside but inside the action on the track was red hot both nights and the attendees were Livin’ Loud. We had a display area in the lobby area and virtually everyone who entered the Budweiser Events Center had to pass by the KICKER setup. We had a selection of KICKER products for all to see. For at least 90 minutes on Friday and 2 hours on Saturday we were talking to members of the crowd about KICKER. Colorado is truck country so the new KICKER L7T under seat drew a lot of attention as did the OE Direct fit speakers. Powersports in strong in the Rockies so the KICKER PowerBar grabbed attention too,” Lorin Morrell-Maddog-Media, who orchestrates the KICKER AMA ArenaCross Series events, related.
KICKER product setup in the lobby before the event began.
Track prep early Friday.
The Budweiser Events Center was built as a hockey arena that holds about 7000 people. For the ArenaCross event the stands were pushed back a bit to set up the fairly short, but well designed track, for riders. For Saturday night’s event the stands were nearly full. Over 300 riders were on hand both days to take practice runs plus amateur and pro riders on the track for dozens of heats through the evening from 6 until well after 10PM.
Riders on the track raced for the top spot on the podium.
The event center was built for hockey and it was a quick trip around the track for riders.
Matt Macias, Colorado staff member of Santa Fe Distributing in the Rockies, was on hand Saturday night to work the booth along with Lorin Morrell. “Lorin does such a great job getting everything set up to showcase KICKER at the AMA ArenaCross events. So many attendees are interested in the KICKER products that will fit their rides,” he stated. Macias resides in Aurora CO about an hour from Loveland. Santa Fe Distributing in a key KICKER Distributor of longstanding based in Lenexa KS.
Lorin Morrell gives a big thumbs up with the winner of the T-Shirt toss with his KICKER BullFrog Prize.
Matt Macias (R), Santa Fe Distributing, was on site for the Saturday day event and is pictured with Lorin Morrell and more KICKER Bullfrog prize winners.
In addition to the action on the track T-shirt are fired into the crowd during race breaks and track maintenance periods. An air cannon fires wrapped KICKER T’s into the crowd. A special T has a certificate wrapped inside for a KICKER BullFrog to be picked up at the KICKER display in the lobby. Crowd member also participate in flag-waving sessions for a chance to win a KICKER BullFrog.
The 2022 KICKER ArenaCross Series will be Livin’Loud.
Concluding Morrell added, “The KICKER AMA ArenaCross got off to a great start in Loveland and the next stop is Amarillo TX on Saturday, January 15th. We look for a great turnout there as well. The KICKER AMA ArenaCross is Livin’ Loud in 2022.”
AUBURN HILLS, MI (01.11.22) - Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. has introduced the next-generation Alpine Halo R2-Series Preloaded Subwoofer Enclosures with ProLink. The enclosures come preloaded with Alpine’s new 10” and 12” R2-Series subwoofers that feature an all-new design to offer cleaner, more controlled bass response.
“Alpine believes in the constant pursuit of better sound,” said Mike Anderson, Vice President and General Manager, Brand Business Unit, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. “Adding the next-gen R2-Series subwoofers to our Alpine Halo enclosures is just one step towards getting the most premium sound experience in the vehicle.
Deeper Bass Output Since its introduction, Alpine’s R-Series sound system family has been known for incredible output and outstanding performance. Today Alpine introduces the next-generation of sound performance with the new R2-Series subwoofers, featured in the Alpine Halo R2-Series Preloaded Subwoofer Enclosures with ProLink.
These next-generation R2-Series Subwoofers feature larger, double-stacked magnets, which results in an increase of 5%-8% more motor strength in the subwoofer compared to the previous generation. This increase in motor strength produces a wider frequency band in the subwoofer, which will in turn play deeper bass with more authority. The new R2 design also delivers improved control over the moving subwoofer cone for tighter, cleaner bass response.
Additional design improvements to the subwoofers include a new ceramic composite dust cap that is lightweight, yet rigid and provides incredible internal damping (vibration absorption) to smooth out the frequency response and reproduce tight bass. This premium, unique material also has a higher heat capacity that contributes to the non-stop bass performance customers have come to expect from Alpine’s R-Series system.
The new R2-Series subwoofers contain Alpine’s High Amplitude Multi-Roll (HAMR) Surround Technology. This rubber surround allows the subwoofer cone to efficiently move air while staying cool, which also contributes to increased output from the subwoofers.
The new design and enhanced performance of the next-generation R2-Series subwoofers results in a cleaner, more controlled bass response from the Alpine Halo R2-Series Preloaded Subwoofer Enclosures with ProLink. The ported enclosures feature an optimized vent and rounded internal port edges that maximize the output performance of the subwoofer, for deeper, reliable bass. Each enclosure is also wired for optimized performance with Alpine’s R-Series R-A75M Mono Power Amplifier.
Unique ProLink® Technology Traditionally, single and dual subwoofer enclosures are sold as independent systems, leaving no room for flexibility when it comes to sound system building. If a single subwoofer enclosure was originally purchased, the only option for adding more bass to the system was to remove the single subwoofer enclosure and purchase a new, dual subwoofer enclosure.
Alpine’s unique ProLink™ technology was designed with the sound system builder in mind. ProLink™ allows more flexibility in both power and price to start with a single subwoofer enclosure and add an additional subwoofer using a Linking Kit (sold separately) to link two enclosures together to create a dual system when more bass is desired.
Groundbreaking Alpine Halo Design The Alpine Halo R2-Series Preloaded Subwoofer Enclosures with ProLink™ share the premium, unmistakable design of the Alpine Halo Family. The enclosures pull design cues from the Alpine Halo Display with unique, curved edges outlined by a silver trim and a front baffle for a matching system aesthetic. Built with sturdy, 3/4” MDF construction and covered in a premium black carpet, these enclosures give the impression of a custom look, without the custom work.
The R2-SB12V and R2-SB10V will ship in January 2022 at a MAP of $449.95 and $429.95 respectively.
The next-generation R2-Series Subwoofers featured in the Alpine Halo R2-Series Preloaded Subwoofer Enclosures with ProLink™ will also be available as separate components in an 8” option for $219.95 (R2-W8D4, R2-W8D2) 10” for $299.95 (R2-W10D4, R2-W10D2), and 12” for $349.95 (R2-W12D4, R2-W12D2).
All products will be available at Alpine Authorized retailers and at Preferred Online Stores. Installation options can be found on the Alpine-USA website through the store locator.
12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (01.11.22) – Following the recent CES 2022 and SEMA Show 2021 it was more apparent than ever the need for companies to let the members of the 12volt industry know about their new products. With the current uncertainty in the air the in-person event dilemma continues.
Also, the process that a company utilizes to showcase their efforts to create interest for their brand and products across the marketplace has been disrupted. Many factory sales staffs have not traveled in nearly 2 years. The travel activity of rep firms has also been curtailed.
All companies across the 12volt industry have positive messages they need to deliver about their products and activities to 12volt retailers… that includes manufacturers, reps and distributors. The 12volt News Show is the vehicle to make that happen.
With just a smartphone companies can be featured in The 12volt News Show. Snap and Txt an image to 318 465 0844. Presto, your company could be showcased in The 12volt News Show. That’s the 12voltSTP Tool in action. Information may also be sent via email to mike@12voltnews.com.
With The 12volt News Show there is no booth, freight, travel, hotel, miscellaneous expenses or associated hassles. 12voltvoltnews.com programs, that include visibility in the 12volt Central Studios and the 12voltBeat newsletter, are available to deliver company messages to members of the 12volt industry.
All industries across the business spectrum through the years have benefitted from the in-person experience. For the past 2 years the COVID-19 Pandemic has disrupted activities around the world. 12volt industry disruptions have certainly not been immune to the impact of COVID-19.
Many members of the 12volt industry have already seen the value of The 12voltSTP Tool. With a smartphone it is so easy to showcase a company’s positive activities in the 12volt News. Snap and txt an image to 318 465 0844. Presto…your company could be in the 12volt News.
On a personal note… This writer began attending CES in Chicago in the early 1970’s. As an award winning Sony distributor principal hosted distributor shows throughout that 4-state territory… even purchasing a Sony Motorhome as a rolling showroom. With dB SpeakerWorks had booths at MERA plus CES in Vegas. All of those in-person events were terrific. Today, those in-person events are not happening with the same impact.
LAS VEGAS, NV (01.10.22) – COVID 19, along with testing procedures and uncertainties in marketplace, led to a significantly less than expected attendance during CES 2022. Attendance was reported to be in the 40,000 range compared to 170,000 in a recent year. News of large companies cancelling plans to exhibit, along with major flight cancellations and delays, added to the 75% decline in attendance compared to recent years.
The new LVCC West Hall, with 1.4 million square feet, was part of CES for the first time in 2022.
Less than a week before CES 2022 presenter CTA announced the event would be reduced to a 3-Day run… concluding on Friday at 6PM instead of the scheduled Saturday last day.
The headline on the Las Vegas newspaper one day during the event was ‘CES…Room To Roam.’
CES 2022 attendance was down approximately 75% from recent CES events.
Weeks ago a large number of 12volt companies announced they would not be attending. Several forfeited seniority for future years. VOXX Electronics, SiriusXM, XS Power, CUB and Installer Net continued with their plans to exhibit. The VOXX Prestige, Directed, Viper, Rostra and Rosen brands showcased their 12volt products. Sirius XM, with Paul Trueman, shared the large VOXX booth in the Central Hall.
Paul Trueman, SiriusXM Sr. Director Retail Sales, offered “The new RoadyBT Tuner that offers multiple installation options opened eyes in the booth. The new Road Dog BT tuner that we showed opens installation options in the retail truck channel. Of course it would have been brilliant to have seen a larger turnout.”
The VOXX Electronics Central Hall booth showcased the company’s lineup of 12volt brands.
XS POWER with Scottie Johnson, Brady Basner, Shawn Mayo and Remy Viator had an impressive booth in the West Hall with the company’s batteries and accessories positioned for attendees to check out. Large signage hung from ceiling rafters to draw attention in the massive 1.4 million square foot West Hall.
Scottie Johnson, XS POWER President related “For us the show overall was a success, but with very little audio business. We did develop opportunities in the EV and Commercial Energy markets.”
“We showed our full lineup to attendees who came to the booth and met with dealers from outside the U.S. Closing CES a day early was probably good for some to spend an extra day in Vegas but I would have preferred being at home in Tennessee” Brady Basner, XS POWER Sales/Marketing, related.
Rescheduling airline reservations, along with travels delays, prevented most from returning home a day earlier than scheduled after the Saturday CES cancellation was announced.
The open area in the foreground is the booth space Nakamichi was to showcase their extensive car audio lineup.
CUB and Installer Net also moved forward in the West Hall to let all see their latest products and services.
Robin McNeal, Nakamichi National Sales Manager and Las Vegas resident, registered for CES and walked the halls of LVCC. “I have attended CES for probably over two decades. CES 2022 I have a hard time understanding or describing. We all know the 12volt category has been declining at CES and shifting to SEMA. Nakamichi canceled our booth a few months ago. Our original booth space in the West Hall was just an empty space when I walked that hall. The local newspaper described CES 2022 as a gadget show. Add in health products and that sounds about right.”
Use the 12voltSTP Tool to put your products in The 12volt News Show. Snap and Txt an image to 318-465-O844. Presto… your new product could be in The 12volt News Show.
12volt Central staff interviewed a number of 12volt retailers prior to CES 2022. All indicated they would not be attending. Several said they had registered, bought a ticket and booked hotel stay. As 12volt exhibitors pulled out, uncertainties in the marketplace continuing and the new COVID variant spiking they cancelled plans to attend CES 2022.
As an industry veteran, with parts of seven decades in the industry, witnessing the reality of CES 2022 is sobering and disheartening. CES for this writer began in the early 1970’s in Chicago. With all the variables in the marketplace getting things back to close to normal will be challenging to be sure. Let’s all set plans to accomplish positives each day as we work to accomplish respective goals for the year.
Enter The 12volt News Show to let the 12volt industry know about your new products.
Enter The 12volt News Show. We encourage all to utilize the 12voltSTP Tool. Snap and Txt an image to 318-465-0844. Presto, Your company’s products and positive activities could be in The 12volt News Show.
PHOENIX, AZ (01.10.22) – MTX Audio has introduced all new audio kits and components for the Polaris RZR Pro XP platform of vehicles. This new offering will be compatible with machines that come with and without the Ride Command system option and install in existing factory locations.
Two of the primary components being introduced are the front speaker and subwoofer systems to complement the already popular rear speakers and amplifiers. The new PROXP-20-FS component speaker system features an all-weather 6 1⁄2” midrange driver preinstalled in a rotationally molded enclosure that mounts in the factory location beneath the dash. Combined with that is a high output, soft dome tweeter that mounts in the existing housing on the top of the dash. These components have been engineered to maximize your audio experience without sacrificing legroom or sound quality while riding. Additionally, the speaker pod’s design allows for installation in just a few minutes.
The subwoofer option, the PROXP-20-SW consists of a high output 10-inch subwoofer in a high mounted, ported design that installs in the dash. 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 port allows it to produce deep vibrating bass while the high mount placement prevents water intrusion in most riding applications.
Also being introduced are all new RZR Pro XP audio kits that are designed to fit all models and platforms available. They will consist of a total of four main packages that will work on Ride Command and non- Ride Command vehicles alike from model years 2020 to present. These kits will offer different levels of audio experience from the basic three speaker package to a complete five speaker system. Additionally, there will be 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.
“With the rise in popularity of the Pro XP platform of vehicles combined with the limited audio options available to our customers, we knew we needed to bring a high quality, and bulletproof option to the market.” said Director of Sales and Marketing, Jason Fickas. “We’ve put a lot of research and development into the design of these kits to ensure they are the easiest to install and deliver exceptional sound quality no matter what speed you’re going.”
The new RZR kits and components are expected to start shipping mid-March and more details will follow soon including pre-order information. Be sure to follow us on social media or check out our website for more details as they develop.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.10.22) – A new Professional Development Program launched by the SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN, formerly Young Executives Network, YEN) is helping aspiring leaders in the automotive aftermarket reach greater levels of success. Sponsored by FLN in partnership with Dale Carnegie, the two-day, in-person program focuses on improving individual and business performance and is available exclusively to FLN members at a significant discount.
“The SEMA Future Leaders Network is committed to helping aspiring leaders advance in the industry,” said FLN Chair Nick Caloroso. “Partnering with a world-class organization such as Dale Carnegie is just one example of what we are doing to invest in the membership. I’ve been fortunate to have been able to participate in the Dale Carnegie Training, and I’m excited that other FLN members will have access to the program as well.”
While Caloroso’s employer, Driven Lighting Group, supported his participation in the Dale Carnegie Training, most aspiring leaders in the industry do not have such opportunities. To make the training attainable for all employees, including junior level executives and those from small businesses, FLN is subsidizing 50 percent of the cost of the training, plus offering free hotel and meals for two days, two nights to a limited number of members.
“It’s important to invest in training, and the Dale Carnegie Program is among the best that is available,” said Brian Reese, current CEO of T Sportline and Caloroso’s employer at Driven Lighting Group at the time of the training. “Nick has always been a terrific leader and team member, but the Dale Carnegie program has given him greater skills and knowledge to become an even better leader. He’s learned strategies and tactics that many seasoned professionals have yet to learn.”
The program, which will take place in March 2022 in Diamond Bar, California, will teach participants to:
Communicate professionally and confidently in business situations
Engage others by building rapport, asking pertinent questions, and listening
Build relationships and deal effectively with people in a multitude of scenarios
Gain cooperation and influence people, including direct reports, laterally and upward
Use emotional controls to sustain success
The program is available at half of Dale Carnegie’s regular fee and includes complimentary meals and hotel accommodations for two nights. (Cost for the program is $1,600 direct from Dale Carnegie.) Participants will also need to arrange their own travel to the event.
The program is limited to 25 FLN members, but any SEMA member company employee aged 40 and under can apply for FLN membership at no cost. Individuals interested in learning more can visit pages.message.sema.org/FLN-Profession-Development/ or contact Denise Waddingham, FLN Director, at deniselw@sema.org
SHREVEPORT LA (01.08.22) WTF…Win This Friday. Auto Additions won a $100. 12volt News check on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 160 on Friday morning, January 7th.
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 has now rolled into year 4.
The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for 160th time on Friday morning January 7th. The Wheel landed on the 12volt space and the Auto Additions 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 the dealer in Springfield IL to give them the good news. After a bit we were able to convince Dan Schultz that this was not a ROBOCALL. It was 10 degrees outside and they are selling a ton of remote starters. Dan was very happy to here the $100. ‘Christmas Present’ will head his way.
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. and Sound Proof Car Stereo in Douglasville GA. Congratulations to all.
WTF… Where’s the Fun. On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel… on Friday, January 14th.
BOCA RATON, FL (01.07.22) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers was recognized as one of the top 500 franchises in Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500, the world’s first, best and most comprehensive franchise ranking. The 43rd annual Entrepreneur Franchise 500 is a highly sought-after honor in the franchise industry. Recognized as an invaluable resource for potential franchisees, the 2022 Franchise 500 ranks Tint World as 317th for its outstanding performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power.
“The past year has been one of the most challenging for businesses in recent memory, which made putting together our 43rd annual Franchise 500 list more enlightening than ever,” said Entrepreneur Editor in Chief Jason Feifer. “The companies named to this year’s list showed us how being resilient, supportive, and nimble can help navigate extraordinary challenges and also underscore the grit and innovation that define entrepreneurship.”
In Entrepreneur’s continuing effort to best understand and evaluate the ever-changing franchise marketplace, the company’s 43-year-old ranking formula continues to evolve as well. The editorial team researches and assesses several factors that go into the evaluation, including costs and fees, size and growth, support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability. Each franchise is given a cumulative score based on an analysis of more than 150 data points, and the 500 franchises with the highest cumulative scores become the Franchise 500 in ranking order.
“The EntrepreneurFranchise 500 represents the highest level of achievement in the franchise industry, so appearing on the list for the eighth consecutive year confirms the dedication of the Tint World family and our approach to business,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, CEO of Tint World. “Our vision for 2022 is to continue growing by reaching new markets and providing franchisees with innovative tools that support their success.”
Over its 43 years in existence, the Franchise 500 has become both a dominant competitive measure for franchisors and a primary research tool for potential franchisees. Tint World’s position on the ranking is a testament to its strength as a franchise opportunity.
Visit entrepreneur.com/franchise500 to view Tint World in the full ranking. Results can also be seen in the January/February 2022 issue of Entrepreneur, available on newsstands Jan. 11.
AUBURN HILLS, MI (01.07.22) - Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. has introduced two new 9” Weather-Resistant Jeepreceivers, the i509-WRA-JL for the new 2018-Up JeepWrangler and 2020-Up JeepGladiator and the i509-WRA-JK for the 2011-2018 JeepWrangler. The new receivers were designed for plug-and-play installation while featuring High-Resolution Audio Playback, High-Resolution Display, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
“Alpine has a unique relationship with the Jeep customer, and with that relationship in mind, we craft mindful solutions made to enhance the Jeep lifestyle,” said Mike Anderson, Vice President and General Manager, Brand Business Unit, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. “We believe the new JeepReceivers will take the Jeepdriving experience to the next level.”
Go Beyond Expectation
Since 2015, Alpine has attended countless Jeep-specific events and gathered first-hand customer feedback to craft the perfect solution for the Jeepvehicle. Through intentional upgrades, along with a deep understanding of the customer, our next-generation Jeepdash technology includes High-Resolution specs that will enhance the Jeepdriving experience.
The all-new i509-WRA-JL and i509-WRA-JK Weather-Resistant Receivers feature High-Resolution Audio Playback and Jeep-specific tuning to bring out the full potential of music in the Jeep. They also include a WXGA High-Resolution, Anti-Glare Display (1280x720px) for enhanced performance.
Features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in Bluetooth hands-free calling with audio streaming allows access to music, messages, phone calls, and maps on a smartphone via either a wired USB connection or wirelessly. These features are controlled through touch or voice commands with the included external microphone.
An industry-first for aftermarket receivers, the i509-WRA-JL and i509-WRA-JK feature SiriusXM 360L, which combines satellite and streaming content delivery for even more choices in entertainment than before (SXV300 Connect Vehicle Tuner Kit sold separately; SiriusXM subscription required). Built-in HD Radio is also included for additional entertainment options.
Designed for Jeep
By learning the pain points and priorities of the Jeep customer, Alpine has been able to craft solutions that were designed specifically for Jeep. The 9” display is housed in a Jeep-specific trim bezel that emulates the look and feel of the Jeepdash. A Jeep-specific harness is included with the receiver to take out the guesswork during installation and make it a true plug-and-play solution. The displays feature a Jeep-specific opening screen and LED color scheme for a consistent design with factory Jeepsettings.
As most Jeepcustomers enjoy driving with the top off, the display is also weather-resistant (rated IP53 for dust and ingress) for uninterrupted performances in any driving condition.
Upgrading dash technology can often result in a loss of factory functionality such as steering wheel controls and access to engine codes. However, the i509-WRA-JL and i509-WRA-JK are compatible with the iDatalink Maestro Module (sold separately) allowing select factory features like voice-activated media player, Bluetooth technology, and steering wheel controls to be retained and vehicle information displayed on the screen. The iDatalink can also integrate with the Jeepdiagnostic port so select vehicle information like tire pressure, battery voltage, door status, engine codes, and user-customizable gauges can be monitored on the display.
Exciting System Expandability Options
Whether commuting or off-roading, avoid obstacles in the road with the included front and rear camera inputs to add a front or rearview camera (sold separately) to the i509-WRA-JK. The rearview camera includes a distance guide display that overlays guidelines onto the screen for ease when moving in reverse. Multiple camera angles can be viewed with the KCX-C2600B Universal Front and Rear Camera Selector (sold separately). The i509-WRA-JL retains the factory rear-view camera for the new 2018-Up JeepWrangler and 2020-Up JeepGladiator.
Take driving safety even further with the DVR-C320R Premium 1080P Front and Rear Dash Camera with built-in drive assist (sold separately), compatible with the i509-WRA-JL and i509-WRA-JK.
While the i509-WRA-JL and i509-WRA-JK do not have built-in navigation, the new KTX-NS01 Navigation Module (sold separately) provides seamless, on-and-off-road navigation, as an option. This is delivered through the Navigation Module, designed to plug into the receiver via USB connection for a convenient way to access the latest maps on the display.
Integrated tuning features bring out the full potential of music playback with a 5-band graphic EQ or 13-band parametric EQ per channel, for continuous frequency control. The 6-channel time correction capability ensures that music is staged properly in the front and center of the vehicle. If more power is needed, additional amplifiers can be added using the three sets of true 4V preamp outputs with front, rear, and subwoofer control.
While the i509-WRA-JL and i509-WRA-JK are mech-less (no CD/DVD player) an HDMI input and output are included to allow the user to add a DVD player, or even a smartphone to the head unit for an all-digital audio and video connection through a single cable.
The i509-WRA-JL and i509-WRA-JK will ship in February 2022 at a MAP of $2199.95 and $1999.95 respectively and will be available at Alpine Authorized retailers and at Preferred Online Stores. Installation options can be found on the Alpine-USA website through the store locator.
FULLERTON, CA (01.07.22) – Vision Tech America, Inc., leading vehicle security and safety product manufacturer of backup cameras, dash cams, parking sensors, blind-spot detectors, and monitoring devices, is pleased to announce 2021 BOYO TROPHY AWARD Winners.
VisionTech BOYO President DK Chung (L) pictured with Joe Palilla, Potomac Electronics Sales Rep Firm Principal, and recipient of the BOYO Distinguished Sales Rep of the Year 2021.
Each year, awards are presented to the sales representatives based on their sales performance and quality of service.
The Distinguished Sales Rep of the Year 2021 award was presented to Joe Palilla of Potomac Electronics Sales for the three years in a row.
Most Outstanding Sales Rep of the year 2021 awards were presented to Dave Gill of SMS, Inc., John Tatro of Norcal Sales & Marketing, and Jeff Oliver of J&S Marketing.
Congratulation to all award recipients. 2021 was a great year, outperforming previous year, and we look forward to another successful year 2022.
12VoltNews.com 