Author: 12VoltNews

CES 2022 Falling Significantly Short of Expected Attendance

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LAS VEGAS, NV (01.06.22) – COVID 19, along with testing procedures and uncertainties in marketplace, led to a less than expected attendance opening day of CES 2022. Recent news of large companies cancelling plans to exhibit, along with major flight cancellations and delays, added to lower than anticipated attendance.

This image shows the West Hall mid afternoon on Day 1.
The large VOXX Electronics Central Hall booth midday Day 1.

In this CES 2022 article the 12volt News will take a high road to showcase the efforts of exhibitors on the floor at CES 2022. 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.

The XS POWER booth in the West Hall saw good activity on Day-1. Scottie Johnson, Fawwaz-XS Power dealer from Trinidad, and Brady Basner are pictured (LtoR).

XS Power, with Scottie Johnson and Brady Basner, had an impressive booth in the West Hall with the company’s batteries and accessories positioned for attendees to check out.

CUB and Installer Net also moved forward in the West Hall to let all see their latest products and services.

CUB showed the company’s add-on vehicle safety and convenience products.

As an industry veteran, with parts of seven decades in the industry, witnessing 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.

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.

Visit ces.tech for more.

Alpine Electronics Introduces High-Resolution Alpine Halo Receivers

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AUBURN HILLS, MI (01.06.22) – Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. introduces two new Alpine Halo Floating Touchscreen Receivers, the iLX-F511 11-inch Multimedia Receiver and the iLX-F509 9-inch Multimedia Receiver, now with High-Resolution Audio Playback, High-Resolution Display, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

“We are excited to announce our new Alpine Halo Receivers and the new features that are included,” said Mike Anderson, Vice President and General Manager, Brand Business Unit, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. “These next-generation receivers will exceed customer expectations for a premium driving experience.”

New Heights in Performance
In 2018, the Alpine Halo display created a new benchmark for premium dash system technology with a groundbreaking, “floating-style,” adjustable display and versatile 1-DIN chassis that can fit into virtually any vehicle. The displays added features to make the drive easy and exciting. Today, we are proud to introduce the next-generation dash technology, including both audio and visual High-Resolution specs, that take the Alpine Halo display to new heights.

The all-new iLX-F511 11-inch Multimedia Receiver and the iLX-F509 9-inch Multimedia Receiver feature High-Resolution Audio Playback to bring out the full potential of music in the vehicle. They also include a WXGA High-Resolution Display (1280x720px) for an elevated driving experience.

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 iLX-F511 and iLX-F509 features SiriusXM 360L, which combines satellite and streaming content delivery for even more choices in entertainment (SXV300 Connect Vehicle Tuner Kit sold separately; SiriusXM subscription required). Built-in HD Radio is also included for additional entertainment options.

Exciting System Expandability Options
Navigating through busy city streets can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. The iLX-F511 and iLX-F509 include front and rear camera inputs to add a front or rearview camera (sold separately). 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).

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 iLX-F511 and iLX-F509.

While the iLX-F511 and iLX-F509 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 receivers via USB connection for a convenient way to access the latest maps on the display.

On-board 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 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.

The new RUX-H02 Alpine Halo Subwoofer Controller (sold separately) easily mounts to the Alpine Halo Display and allows quick-access controls to the subwoofer and main volume through a wireless Bluetooth connection. The sleek, tapered lines and silver trim of the RUX-H02 compliments the Alpine Halo Display design.

While the iLX-F511 and iLX-F509 are mech-less (no CD/DVD player) an HDMI input and output are included to connect a DVD player or even a smartphone for an all-digital audio and video connection through a single cable.

Convenient System Compatibility
Upgrading dash technology can often result in a loss of factory functionality such as steering wheel controls and access to engine codes. However, the iLX-F511 and iLX-F509 are compatible with the iDatalink Maestro Module (sold separately) allowing select OEM features to be retained and vehicle information displayed on the screen.

The iLX-F511 and iLX-F509 will ship in February 2022 at a MAP of $1199.95 and $999.95 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.

Visit www.alpine-usa.com for more.

Chris Kersting to Retire from Specialty Equipment Market Association

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.06.22) – Following more than 30 years of service to SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association), President and CEO Chris Kersting will be stepping down at the end of January 2022 to enjoy retirement. The move comes as SEMA concludes a successful 2021, delivering two of the nation’s largest in-person trade shows since the start of the pandemic – the SEMA Show in Las Vegas and PRI Show in Indianapolis.

“Our mission at SEMA is to help our member companies succeed and prosper,” said Kersting. “Pursuing that mission has provided three decades of exciting and fulfilling work – engaging with the outstanding people in our industry to find new and better ways to help them thrive. Together with our talented SEMA team, we’ve built a truly innovative portfolio of services and benefits – and certainly one of the greatest trade shows in the world. You couldn’t ask for a better career.”

SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting will retire at the end of January 2022 following more than 30 years of service.

Kersting joined SEMA in 1996 to lead the organization’s Washington, D.C., office as vice president of legislative and technical affairs. Kersting took the helm as SEMA’s CEO in 2002 and led the Association through two decades of growth. Milestones include launching the SEMA Data Co-op, the SEMA Garage and Emissions Lab, SEMA Ignited, the PRI acquisition, the SEMA Garage in Detroit, and developing the globally recognized SEMA Show.

“Chris led SEMA through tremendously successful stretches, and also skillfully helped the association navigate the challenges of COVID-19, and the worldwide recession back in 2008,” said James Lawrence, SEMA Chairman of the Board. “On behalf of the SEMA Board, and millions of automotive enthusiasts everywhere, we wish Chris the best of luck in the next stage of his life.”

Beginning Feb. 1, 2022, Kersting will transition into an advisory role through July 2022. SEMA executives Bill Miller (Senior Vice President of Operations) and Mike Spagnola (Vice President of OEM & Product Development Programs) will serve as interim co-CEOs.

Visit www.sema.org for more.

SSR Distributors North Celebrates The Grand Opening

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DALLAS, TX (01.05.22) – SSR Distributors North celebrated the Grand Opening of the new Dallas facility on Monday, January 3rd. The SSR Distributors North facility is located at 2880 Virgo Lane Dallas TX 75229. Amir Dhanani, SSR CEO, travelled from the company’s Houston location to attend the Grand Opening.

Tracy Farr (L) and Amir Dhanani (3rd L) are joined by old friends Brian and NT, 12volt industry veterans, who stopped by to visit and check out the new location.
Anita Graham, Sales Manager, shows sales staff members Lakin Christian (L) and Oscar Garza the computer order entry system.
Tabatha Marsh, Accounts Payable/Accounts Receivable shown at her desk.

The new warehouse facility, which covers 25,000 square feet, underwent extensive updating and remodeling with new office configurations plus office and showroom floors over the past several months. Racks and racks of shelving was added to the warehouse area.

Lucia Farr helping Joseph’s Auto Toy Store with an order.
Amir Dhanani and Jay Grimes (R), Warehouse Manager, look over an area of the warehouse as more inventory goes on the shelves.

Tracy Farr, VP of Sales and Operations who oversaw the remodeling process, related “For the Grand Opening Day local dealers were invited to see the new facility and get an idea of the SSR North plan going forward. We are presently offering courier services, limited shipping and customer pick up. Several dealers who came to the Grand Opening actually picked up orders.”

Amir Dhanani has some quiet space in the new SSR North Facility.
Warehouse staff work in the background to stock shelves.
Heise LED displays spotlight the lighting category in the showroom.

The new SSR North location has a staff of 10 people with office, sales and warehouse staff members. Key brands include KICKER, Pioneer, Kenwood, JVC, Compustar / FirsTech, VOXX and Metra.

“A number of the area dealers attending the Grand Opening commented they were very impressed with the new facility. They immediately noted the investment that was made and saw SSR’s commitment to the future of the 12volt industry” Farr added.

See ssrdistributors.com and reach the new Dallas location by phone 214-396-5959

Audiomobile Ships “Solopass” Modular Enclosures

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LAS VEGAS, NV (01.05.22) – – Audiomobile has announced initial shipments of their first five (5) models of their latest ‘Advanced Technology’ car audio subwoofer solutions.

Featuring an array of unique, and proprietary premium design elements, the “Solopass” series was specifically designed to ‘fill the gap’ in 12V retailers merchandising mix, by providing an easy, alternative, step-up, “Better” – ‘drop-in’ and affordable, ‘vehicle-specific’ subwoofer solutions – vs. the traditional, carpeted, loaded prefab boxes, for a wide array of popular vehicles, including the Ford F-150, GMC / Chevy, Toyota trucks, and BMW SUV platforms.

The SOLOPASS systems set a new standard in flexible, high-performance subwoofer enclosures.

Available in three versions, dual 10 Solopass ( ‘MCAR’ pre-tuned Passive Radiator transducer), Sealed 10 and 12 inch and ‘Aeroport’ vented models. These unique, unloaded, prefab “Wedge” enclosures feature non-parallel panels, and full-width cross-braces (to eliminate any enclosure resonance) and are designed and manufactured in the USA. All Solopass enclosures employ an array of high-performance features, including CNC manufacturing, ¾” US MDF construction, and1.5 inch front, staggered, flush-mount driver mounting, and were designed to accept select Audiomobile low-profile drivers. This rare feature allows dealers the flexibility to customize the price-point, impedance and power-handling, for customers’ needs and budgets.

The SOLOPASS series features an array of unique, and proprietary premium, design elements.

The Solopass also introduces a remarkable, industrial-grade, spray-on, textured finish, called “Composite Armored Suede” (or ‘CAS’), which is extremely rugged, and features a high degree of luster, that is very smooth to the touch, unlike typical, generic, “bedliner” type spray-coatings.

These modular, ‘Omni-fit’ enclosures, provide a choice of ‘Stealth” or ‘Vehicle Specific’ designs, including “down-fire” models, all of which are F-150 focused, but also fit an array of trucks and SUV’s and are available with optional kits, including proprietary ‘Iso-Feet’ kits, to further facilitate additional truck applications. The Solopass enclosures, by virtue of their modular design, can also be used in unique, ‘bookend’ type format, allowing easy installation of a “Quattro” system (4 x 10-inch drivers) in down-fire, stealth system, that requires a remarkable 1.1 cu ft air-volume.

With an MSRP of under $300, the SoloPass enclosure systems set a new standard in flexible, high-performance subwoofer enclosures, and allow retailers to both enhance and expedite the critical efficiency of their installation bay, without negatively compromising their ‘Custom Box’ capabilities, while offering their clients unprecedented options and superb value.

For additional information visit facebook.com/Audiomobileusa

Nemesis Releases New Made In Korea Series of Amps

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DALLAS, TX (01.05.22) – Nemesis Audio has released a new Line of Made in Korea Amps. Falling under the SKU / Model “KOR,” the new Series will be a more affordable alternative to the already popular “TEAM NEMESIS” Made in Korea Line of Amps.

The new Line features Three Monoblock Amplifiers and Two 4-CH Amplifiers. The Following Models are currently in Stock & Shipping to Dealers worldwide:

NA-1500.1KOR
NA-2000.1KOR
NA-3000.1KOR
NA-700.4KOR
NA-1500.4KOR

For More Information, visit NemesisAudio.com or facebook.com/NMAUDIOUSA

SEMA Young Executives Network Rebrands as Future Leaders Network

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.04.22) – The Young Executives Network (YEN), a SEMA group dedicated to cultivating talent in the automotive aftermarket, is now the Future Leaders Network (FLN). The new name more accurately reflects the network’s 1,142 membership, which includes employees ranging from entry-level staff to managers, and trade workers, executives, and business owners.

“The network supports talent and individuals who are aspiring to further their careers in the automotive aftermarket. The Future Leaders Network will continue to offer programs and resources that will help members advance their careers,” said FLN Chair Nick Caloroso.

Caloroso explains that the former Young Executives Network name did not accurately reflect the group’s membership. “More than half of our members do not fall into the executives category, and although we will retain the age requirement, the word ‘young’ is relative and implies inexperience. Regardless of the individual’s role, each member is aspiring to become a more effective and productive leader in the industry.”

The new Future Leaders Network name puts the focus on the group’s purpose and goal: Growing and supporting individuals to become successful leaders, regardless of their actual job title or position. Membership is open at no cost to all employees under the age of 40 who work for a SEMA member company.

Since 1989, the network has evolved and grown to include 1,142 members. In addition to year-round virtual and in-person mixers and gatherings, FLN hosts education sessions targeted to up-and-coming leaders. FLN also launched the Launch Pad product pitching competition to support emerging entrepreneurs and business owners. New this year, FLN teamed up with Dale Carnegie to provide members with an exclusive professional development training.

To learn more about FLN or to sign up to become a member, contact FLN Director Denise Waddingham at deniselw@sema.org.

Tint World Adds Second Location in Tennessee

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GOODLETTSVILLE, TN (01.04.22) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers has opened its second store in Goodlettsville, Tennessee. The new location is owned by Brian Weed.

“I am happy for the opportunity to become a member of the Tint World team,” Weed said. “The people of the Goodlettsville area deserve an automotive styling center of the caliber of Tint World and we are honored to be the one-stop location providing these services.”

Tint World Goodlettsville, TN will offer the latest in ultra-premium window tint, automotive aftermarket accessories, automotive reconditioning, and a team of experienced installers and technicians.

“Brian’s experience in automotive styling will make this store a must-visit destination for any vehicle styling enthusiast in the Goodlettsville area,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “Under his direction, we know we’ll see nothing but success from Brian. The people in the area can expect good things from this location!”

Tint World Goodlettsville, TN is located at 500 S Main St, Goodlettsville, TN 37072. To book a service or find out more about what the store offers, call (615) 549-7211 or visit them online at: https://www.tintworld.com/locations/tn/goodlettsville-117/

Southwest Sales and Marketing Adds Harry “Dogg” Wages to the Team

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GRAPEVINE, TX (01.04.22) – Harry “Dogg” Wages, as known by his friends, is the newest addition to the Southwest Sales and Marketing rep firm team. The entire team is excited to have Harry “Dogg” on the Team.

Harry brings 15 years of on-the-road sales experience to the table. He is also excited to be returning to 12 volt!

Harry “Dogg” Wages

Wages related to 12volt News “Monday, January 3rd marked my return to the 12volt industry after years in the auto finance business. On my first day back I followed up on a sales lead from the Southwest office and visited the dealer’s store in Farmington AR. He was interested in the new Soundstream Reserve Headunit for Harleys. Looks like a great opportunity to set up a new dealer on my first day back in 12volt.”

Wages added “Back in the day I was big in USACI as a competitor, judge and worked 12volt retail too. It’s great to hear again like in the old days.”

Wages is based in Springdale in North Western Arkansas and will be covering Northern Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas and Missouri.

Email: hwages@swsalesmarketing.com
Cell: (479) 387-1200

Put Your Company in The 12volt News Show

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12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (01.03.22) – Following the 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, surrounding this week’s CES 2022, the in-person event dilemma continues.

It’s a new year…don’t need a badge to see the latest in The 12volt News Show… #the12voltnewsshow for more.

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 over a year. 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.

FOR YOUR BADGE #the12voltnewsshow 

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.

Let’s put your company in The 12volt News Show.