DALLAS, TX (12.03.2021) – Blue Tiger USA has won the CES 2022 Innovation Awards for the Solare headset, the world’s first solar-powered communications headset for hands-free driving. The powerful Solare Headset harvests light from any source – indoor or outdoor for continuous use without the need to recharge a battery. Blue Tiger will be introducing Solare at CES 2022, held in Las Vegas from January 5-8, 2022 at the Cosmopolitan Hotel.
Military Grade — Never Recharge with Solare’s Sustainable Solar Energy Technology
Targeted to the demanding needs of road warriors, such as truckers, professional drivers, commuters, and long distance travelers, the Blue Tiger Solare military-grade Bluetooth headset combines patented solar technology for virtually unlimited use without recharging, with powerful 97% noise cancelation technology and high-quality speaker components — all powered by a flexible solar cell for a seamless driving communications experience. Solare continuously self-charges when exposed to indoor or outdoor sunlight, eliminating the worry about battery life, so drivers always receive and transmit essential communications clearly.
“We are honored to win the CES 2022 Innovation Award for our break-through solar powered innovation. With the Blue Tiger Solare, professional drivers can now travel more safely without worrying about distractions and potential accidents that can be caused by plugging in a headset to charge while driving,” said Chantal Saah, CEO and Co-founder, Blue Tiger USA. “With Solare, drivers connect to important weather alerts, accident and traffic reports, GPS instructions, dispatchers, fellow drivers, friends, and loved ones. And because of Solare’s solar technology, truckers and other drivers never again have to worry about dead batteries or remembering to charge their headsets.”
DETROIT, MI (12.03.2021) – As automakers rush to develop self-driving cars, trucks, SUVs and minivans, most consumers have an incorrect perception of the emerging technology. That’s the latest finding of the J.D. Power 2021 Mobility Confidence Index Study released Tuesday.
Driver education is key
When asked to choose one of seven possible descriptions that correctly defines fully automated self-driving vehicles, a mere 37% of respondents chose one of the two correct answers, with one defining Level 4 autonomy, the other Level 5. Fifty-five percent of respondents incorrectly selected descriptions of driver assist technology rather than self-driving technology.
J.D. Power survey reveals that drivers know little about automated vehicles, but are placing increased confidence in them.
What’s worse is that among drivers who profess to have more knowledge of fully automated self-driving vehicles, only 32% could describe it correctly. Among those who knew nothing of the technology, 37% described it correctly.
“This is a ‘Danger, Will Robinson’ moment for the fully automated self-driving vehicle industry,” said Lisa Boor, senior manager of global automotive at J.D. Power. “There is a significant gap between actual and perceived AV knowledge. Right now, consumers don’t know what they don’t know.”
Others agree.
Self-driving cars, like the GM’s Cruise AV, wouldn’t need a steering wheel on the instrument panel.
Acceptance of AVs is rising
But overall confidence in automated automobiles is growing according to J.D. Power, with 42% of those surveyed expressing confidence in fully automated self-driving vehicles. That’s up from 34% a year ago. And 31% had full confidence in fully automated delivery vehicles. But that level of acceptance rises to 47% among those whose vehicles have driver assist technology. When asked, consumers also saw AVs as being a boon to those who can’t drive due to age, illness or injury.
But acceptance will increase only if the safety of AVs is assured.
LAS VEGAS, NV (12.02.2021) – Leading automotive customization and window tinting franchise Tint World Automotive Styling Centers celebrated its top franchise owners with a variety of awards recently at the company’s annual International Franchise Convention held at Caesars Palace Resort and Hotel in Las Vegas.
The 2021 Tint World International Franchise Convention, entitled “Race to Success: Full Speed Ahead,” featured a vendor trade show, seminars and training, and an awards banquet to recognize top-performing franchises. This was the franchise’s second convention this year. The first convention in February was a virtual event, while the Las Vegas convention was an in-person event held in conjunction with the 2021 SEMA Show, which is held each November in Las Vegas.
“The annual convention is important to the Tint World family,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “Our franchise owners have worked hard, especially with the challenges of the past year, and we want to recognize their successes. This convention is a chance for us to network, learn from one another and stay focused on our goals for 2022. We are thrilled to make this event happen for our Tint World team.”
Tint World presented the following awards during the 2021 awards ceremony:
• Brand Ambassador Vendor of the Year: DS18 • Manufacturing Vendor of the Year: SunTek • Franchise Ambassador of the Year (U.S.): Mike Richards and Dylan Thiel (Grapevine, Texas) • Franchise Ambassador of the Year (Canada): Trevor and Sue Dwyer (Kingston, Ontario) • Rick Martin Franchise Mentor of the Year: Michael Halperin and Mike Rogers (Boca Raton, Florida) • Local Marketing Impact: Pete and Barbra Muller (Longwood, Florida) • Local Marketing Impact: Mark Hamilton (Ft. Myers, Florida) • Most Improved Franchise: Paul Sawhney (Baltimore, Maryland) • Mike Kruse Rookie of the Year: Shirley and Earl MacLeod (Urbandale, Iowa) • Best Performing Franchise: Michael Halperin and Mike Rogers (Boca Raton, Florida) • Best Performing Franchise: Greg Alan (San Marcos, California) • Outstanding Growth: Mike Richards and Dylan Thiel (Rowlett, Texas) • Outstanding Growth: Shahid Ali and Aleks Khiyayev (Smyrna, Georgia) • Outstanding Multi-Store Growth: Danny Shenko (Ft. Lauderdale, FL, North Miami Beach, Florida, Pompano Beach, Florida and Loves Park, Illinois) • Top Gun Franchise: Santiago and Dominica Rojas (Massapequa Park, New York) • Franchise of the Year: Kit and Cameron Pelletier (Jacksonville, North Carolina) • Social Media Award: Randy and Austin Silver (Cary, North Carolina), Arif Notta (Dallas, Texas), Mike Richards and Dylan Thiel (Grapevine, Texas and Rowlett, Texas), Pete and Barbra Muller (Longwood, Florida), John and Carole Anhalt (Webster, Texas and Spring, Texas), Austin Gurba (Olathe, Kansas), Tim and Stacy Kjaer (Medford, New York), Santiago and Dominica Rojas (Massapequa Park, New York), Greg Alan (San Marcos, California), Todd and Michelle Simms (St. Petersburg, Florida and Palm Harbor, Florida), Chris and Michelle Mays (Port Charlotte, Florida), and Sohail and Talha Khan (Livonia, Michigan)
Several franchises were honored for their performance in reaching financial goals:
• $3 Million Club: Santiago and Dominica Rojas (Massapequa Park, New York) • $2 Million Club: Tim and Stacy Kjaer (Medford, New York) • $1 Million Club: Mark Eastland (Hutto, Texas), Dee Patel (Chamblee, Georgia), Randy and Austin Silver (Cary, North Carolina), Acey Light (Lubbock, Texas), Jeff and Penny Rackley (The Colony, Texas), Mike Richards and Dylan Thiel (Grapevine, Texas), Jay Guan (San Diego, California), Danny Shenko (Ft. Lauderdale, Florida), Cary Lopez (West Palm Beach, Florida), Pete and Barbra Muller (Longwood, Florida), Greg and Melissa Alan (San Marcos, California), Paul Sawhney (Baltimore, Maryland), Tim and Stacy Kjaer (Riverhead, New York), Shahid Ali and Aleks Khiyayev (Smyrna, Georgia), and Kit and Cameron Pelletier (Jacksonville, North Carolina)
Tint World also renamed two of their annual awards to recognize the achievements of two franchise owners that passed away in 2021. Rick Martin (Albany, New York) and Mike Kruse (Kennesaw, Georgia) will be honored for their efforts to the Tint World Franchise by having the Mentor of the Year and Rookie of the Year Awards named in their honor.
“This event gave us an opportunity to come together to not only celebrate our wins, but also grieve our losses,” Bonfiglio said. “Rick opened our very first location in New York nearly nine years ago, while Mike just opened his store this past September. They were both strong brand ambassadors and wonderful members of the Tint World family. They’ll be missed, and these awards will serve to recognize future owner accomplishments while honoring Rick and Mike’s memory.”
PITTSBURG, PA (12.02.2021) – 96.1 KISS is Pittsburgh’s #1 Hit Music Radio Station and they are making a hit again this year with their annual Stuff-A-Bus campaign to support the Marines Toys For Tots Drive. Pro sports teams, area organizations plus a growing list of local businesses are contributing to the success of this year’s event. Team Nutz is one of the local businesses working to Stuff-A-Bus.
Nina Nuttall holds big toy trucks Team Nutz picked up at Big Lots.
Ed Nuttall related, for Team Nutz, “This is such a worthy initiative. The 96.1 KISS Stuff-A-Bus Christmas campaign has been going on over 20 years and this is actually our first year to participate. This campaign lasts through this week, ending Saturday December 4th. and so far 22 large school buses have been packed with unwrapped toys. The seats and aisles are filled. They are looking to stuff close to 50 buses before the week is out.”
Full shopping carts of toys for the 96.1 KISS Stuff-A-Bus drive for Marines’ Toys For Tots.
All Ways Safe is a safety truck company in a Pittsburg suburb and is a sponsor. Team Nutz completed an amazing installation in this truck and it was on display in the Special Vehicles area at SEMA 2021 and loaded with Memphis Audio gear.
All Ways Save is an event sponsored as over 50 big school buses are expected to be stuffed with Toys For Tots during the 96.1 KISS Stuff-A-Bus drive.
“My wife Nina and I went shopping at Big Lots and Five Below stores last night and completely filled the Team Nutz van with a wide variety of toys. We dropped the load off at Robinson Town Centre and certainly helped to Stuff-A-Bus for the Marines Toys For Tots Drive 2021.”
It is terrific to see 12volt companies, like Team Nutz, participate in local community events.
AVON LAKE, OH (12.02.2021) – Design Engineering Inc. introduces its new 2022 Full Line Catalog, containing complete information on its entire line of innovative heat and sound control solutions for any automotive project. Request your digital or print copy today or stop by DEI’s PRI booth (#301) to pick one up.
From vehicle-specific to universal application solutions, powersports kits to exhaust wraps and heat protective sleevings, DEI thermal and noise control products are the choice for professional builders and DIY mechanics looking to keep their rides cool and comfortable.
The 60-page catalog features nearly 30 new products and more than 80 new part numbers for race and street performance. Featured products include vehicle-specific insulation kits, high quality heat reflective tapes and sprays, headliner insulators, engine and interior heat barriers, sensor covers, and a growing collection of motorcycle and powersports components and side-by-side heat barrier kits.
These new products join DEI’s long list of proven heat and sound control solutions, including its popular exhaust wraps, turbo heat shields, plug boot and wire protectors, extreme heat barriers and wide range of interior components, plus information on the company’s tools and accessories, safety products, and even marketing materials for retailers.
LONG BEACH, CA (12.01.2021) – KENWOOD USA is now shipping its motorsports-grade STZ-RF200WD Integrated Dual Camera Recording System at a MAP of $399.95.
Motorcycle and motorsports enthusiasts now have a stealth solution to simultaneously record in both the front and rear of their vehicle in FULL HD 1920 x 1080 resolution. The STZ-RF200WD consists of 2 externally-mounted cameras, a control switch, and a GPS antenna, all carrying an IP66/67 rating, meaning that they can resist high-pressure, heavy sprays of water and are fully sealed against dust entry. The “brain” of the system is an IP55 rated hide-a-way control box, meaning that it is protected against dust ingress and low-pressure water jets. The control box would typically mount underneath a seat or in another covered location in most motorcycles, side-by-sides/UTV’s, ATV’s and more. When additional length beyond each camera’s 6.6 ft. cable is needed, optional camera extension cables in lengths of 3.3 ft. (STZ-RFCC100, MAP $34.95), 9 ft. (STZ-RFCC300, MAP $49.95), and 16 ft. (STZ-RFCC500, MAP $64.95) can be added.
The STZ-RF200WD’s compact cameras come in at just under 1” in size for ease of installation and a stealthy look, all without compromising recording quality or their wide viewing angle of 195°. High Dynamic Range (HDR) technology is implemented to ensure the image is clearly defined in all lighting conditions day and night. They also feature Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS), which creates a smooth and clear video by reducing blurring caused by vibration.
With its Auto On/Off recording functionality, the STZ-RF200WD’s built-in GPS records speed, latitude, and longitude whenever the system is active. It’s also equipped with a 3-axis G-Sensor and adjustable sensitivity, which is designed to detect a collision and store that event in a dedicated folder. Its built-in Super Capacitor provides enough backup supply to ensure that even if the system’s power is lost, the recorded video file will save correctly and not become corrupted.
Users have two methods to access recorded videos. They can install the KENWOOD Motorsports CAM App on their iOS or Android device, then connect via a localized Wi-Fi network by pressing and holding the STZ-RF200WD’s control switch for 3 seconds and continuing to follow their device connection prompts. Once connected, this method enables users to visually adjust each camera’s field of view, adjust all system settings and review all recorded files. Upon reviewing, each file can be downloaded directly to the user’s device for easy file sharing. Alternatively, the included 32GB microSD card (upgradeable to 256GB) can be manually removed from the control box, allowing users to open the files from their PC or Mac using the KENWOOD Motorsports CAM viewer desktop software. This viewing software expands upon the app’s reviewing capabilities, including map data and speedometer display.
“From protection in case of insurance fraud to capturing beautiful road, backroad, and water scenery, motorcycle and motorsports enthusiasts have long demanded a high-quality dashboard camera-type recording solution. This product is more than just safety, it allows you to capture and share your epic adventures with your friends and family,” said Mike Roberts, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for KENWOOD USA’s car electronics sector. “Our team of engineers has truly delivered on this challenge and we are thrilled to be continuing to fulfill our mission of expanding our motorsports presence.”
For detailed information on specific features for each product, please view their respective product pages at www.kenwood.com/usa/car.
HOLLY HILL, FL (12.01.2021) –Metra Electronics is heading to Dallas, Texas to host new training sessions at KnowledgeFest and showcase their latest aftermarket installation products. At the booth will also be a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD built by Extreme Offroad and Performance and customized from the front to the back with Heise LED lights and more. Metra’s training sessions will cover new products launched at the 2021 SEMA Show. This includes new Axxessintegration products and DSPs, Saddle Tramplighting and audio upgrades that fit Harley-Davidson, aftermarket accessories that fit Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator, and new vehicle lighting solutions from Heise. As a Diamond Ultra sponsor, Metra is proud to support the industry by providing in-depth training sessions for installers at the event, hosted December 10-12. Training sessions include:
“Simplify your Install with Axxess DSPs” on Friday, Dec. 10 at 1:45 PM and Sunday, Dec.12 at 9:30 AM
This training will cover the entire Axxess DSP product line, highlight new vehicle coverage, and showcase the newest app features. Metra will show installers how these solutions can increase sales in the showroom and decrease time in the bay. Attendees will learn how to use and set up Axxess DSPs through the app for complete tuning control and when to use the DSP “Lite” versus “X” solutions. This training will also explain how to use the different types of applications offered within the AXDSP line, including CAN-based systems, new A2B systems, MOST25, and MOST50 vehicle technology.
“New Accessories for Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator” on Friday, Dec. 10 at 3 PM
Installers will learn how to upgrade the look and sound system of the latest Jeep models using Metra’s newest accessories designed for JeepWrangler JL and Gladiator JT. This session will go over installing the new Metra RGB lighting kit with plug-n-play connections and expandable Heise lighting options. It will also showcase Metra’s new Talon Attack replacement grille, amplifier installation kits, and new accessory harnesses that make adding aftermarket lighting even easier for installers.
“New Lighting & Audio Upgrades for Harley-Davidson Motorcycles” on Saturday, Dec. 11 at 4:15 PM
Metra makes it easy to upgrade the audio system in Harley-Davidson motorcycles with Saddle Tramp’s newest products. Learn more about the new DSP kits with a built-in interface that reflashes the OE radio and gives installers full tuning control from the palm of their hand. This session will also introduce the new motorcycle accessories from Metra that will upgrade the music experience and provide easy integration using Metra’s improved radio replacement kits and harnessing.
“New Vehicle Lighting Trends with Heise” on Saturday, Dec. 11 at 5:30 PM
Lighting upgrades are in demand and Metra’s newest products from Heise deliver just what installers need to meet the latest trends in automotive lighting. Learn about the new and improved Heise lightbars and cube lights, projector series LED bulbs, new wheel lights, RGB and RGBW underglow kits, and the popular third brake light designed for the new 2021 Ford Bronco. This training session includes valuable tips for selling and installing these new LED lighting solutions from Heise.
“Advanced Integration Made Easy with Axxess and Metra” on Sunday, Dec. 12 at 10:45 AM
Attendees will learn about the newest solutions from Axxess and Metra that make vehicle integration easy, even with some of the notoriously complex vehicle systems. This training session gives in-depth installation information for Metra’s new AXPIO integration kits for Pioneer receivers, Metra’s latest TurboTouch dash kits, and new Axxess interfaces hitting the market.
Metra’s customers can register for the KnowledgeFest event at no cost using Metra’s VIP code, available by request from their sales representative. Once registered for the event, attendees will also need to register online at KnowledgeFest.org for each training session they will attend. Metra will be at booth #513 from December 10-12 at the Dallas Convention Center in Dallas, Texas.
AVON LAKE, OH (12.01.2021) – Design Engineering, Inc. is leading the way in vehicle-specific heat and sound control with new custom-cut damping and insulation kits for late-1960s to late-’90s General Motors pickup models.
CNC-cut for a precise fit, the kits offer superior thermal insulating properties, thanks to a blend of high-tech composite materials. Install the damping kit first to reduce noise and vibration, then finish with the insulation kit for total in-cabin comfort.
“Using a combination of our proven Boom Mat Under Carpet Lite and 2mm damping material, we offer an effective and affordable solution to unwanted heat and noise in easy-to-install, pre-cut, vehicle-specific kits,” says Mike Buca of DEI. “Each kit includes the correct material to cover specific interior areas including floors, firewalls, headliners, trunks and more.”
Packaged using the right amount of material to control vibrations and eliminate undesirable sounds such as tire, road and engine noise, the kits also block heat from the engine bay and hot exhausts.
The economical insulation solutions are lightweight for performance applications, with vehicle-specific kits available for:
For more information about Vehicle-Specific GM Truck Insulation Kits and DEI’s complete line of performance heat and sound control products, visit www.DesignEngineering.com.
LAKE HAVASU, AZ (11.30.2021) – The Sand, Water RV Expo filled the event grounds at Lake Havasu Friday and Saturday, November 19th and 20th. This event was a mecca for outdoor motorsports enthusiasts of off-roading, RV’ing, boating, and fishing. The 2021 event drew a full house with hundreds of booths setup showing their latest products and services to attendees. Team KICKER, with Lorin Morrell, shared space in the large Gatorwraps booth.
The grounds were packed for the event at Lake Havasu.
“KICKER was definitely Livin’ Loud at the event with the KICKER POLARIS RZR and Wired4Sound-KICKER deck boat showcasing their latest car audio, PowerSports and marine to enthusiasts at the event. Exhibitors at the event showed UTV’s, Jeeps, Off-Road vehicles, all kinds of buggies, bikes and boats. The show was 11AM til 5PM Friday and 9am to 6pm Saturday, with a lot of families attending. The new KICKER PowerBars really opened eyes when we hit the volume” Morrell offered.
Gatorwraps had a RZR and big truck wrapped in the booth. Each featured amazing wraps that the company is known for from coast to coast.
The KICKER RZR was definitely Livin’ Loud at the event.
Tracy Focht, KICKER Western Regional related “It was a great event as I observed from afar. Jeff’s boat again was a hit. You know it’s too loud when your neighboring exhibitors are complaining. A big thanks to Lorin, Jeff, Dave and Daniel of Wired4Sound as well as our other dealer Ron Burnett of Rons In Your Ear also of Lake Havasu. We appreciate all of these gentlemen flying the KICKER flag in our absence. We definitely look forward to being there next year.”
The Wired4Sound 26’ Deck Boat, KICKER RZR plus Gatorwraps UTV and Truck was a great lineup starting Friday morning.
The Wired4Sound KICKER deck boat was featured in the booth and drew a huge crowd each time the volume cranked to demo the amazing system on the boat that was fresh from SEMA 2021 and the SPL Showdown in Las Vegas. Jeff Cuvelier, owner of the 26’ Flotilla and creator of the onboard KICKER-driven system, related “The build features 14 KICKER amps (a whopping 24,000 watts !) and 44 Kicker Speakers, including 4 L715Q and 6 KMTC11 KICKER Marine Tower Speakers. I have reworked the system several times here in the Wired4Sound installation bay and, based on what people at events say, this is the loudest and best sounding system they have ever heard on a boat.”
Concluding, Morrell related “The event was very busy, as the show wrapped both days, my voice was gone… as well as all the swag in the booth that included lanyards, koozies, sunglasses and a few footballs.”
LAFAYETTE, LA (11.30.2021) – Saturday, November 27th, the Louisiana Jeepers set up in the shopping center in front of Ricky Smiths Audio in Lafayette. The Louisiana Jeepers Club was collecting Christmas gifts for Little Lambs which aids the children and families of the incarcerated.
Louisiana Jeepers set up Saturday morning in the lot outside Ricky Smiths Audio in Lafayette for the ‘Little Lambs’ charity event.
“The Christmas Holiday season is certainly a special time of the year. The shopping center schedules a Santa’s Sleigh activity each Saturday in December leading up to Christmas. Ricky Smiths Audio frequently hosts events in front of the store with Louisiana Jeepers. Since the Jeep is a very popular vehicle for aftermarket upgrades we have done systems for several of their members” Ricky Smith Audio’s Alan Benit stated.
Mrs Claus and an Elf by the Christmas tree in front on Ricky Smiths Audio.
Under a cloudy sky on Saturday members of the Louisiana Jeepers set up a tent, table and boxes for donations. Team members also positioned their Jeeps as a group in the shopping center parking lot.
Louisiana Jeepers parked as a group during the event.
“We set up a Christmas tree outside by the front door with chairs for Mrs Claus and an Elf. When the event concluded a couple of boxes were left that we placed in the showroom to continue the donation efforts for the Little Lambs” Benit concluded.
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