Author: 12VoltNews

Specialty-Equipment Industry Remains Strong Amid Supply-Chain Disruptions

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (11.17.2021) – Despite ongoing disruptions in the economy, 70% of specialty-equipment manufacturers report sales growth over the past year, according to the new State of the Industry—Fall 2021 report from SEMA.

The report highlights specialty-equipment market trends, including sales performance and expectations, broader economic factors that are affecting the industry, and a future outlook on the role that emerging vehicle technologies may play.

Supply-chain disruptions are affecting the automotive sector, and new-vehicle production is expected to be 7.7 million units lower in 2021 than 2020—tempering the specialty-equipment industry’s optimism regarding its short-term prospects. However, most businesses are maintaining a positive outlook, with more than 80% expecting their sales to be stable or growing over the coming year.

The latest edition of SEMA’s State of the Industry report series found that 70% of specialty-equipment manufacturers experienced sales growth over the past year.

The latest edition of SEMA’s ongoing State of the Industry report series offers 70 pages of data on the specialty-equipment industry to help companies understand how the market is performing and evolving. Key findings from the report include:
Delays in shipping and the ongoing microchip shortage have left automakers unable to keep up with consumer demand for new vehicles, pushing dealer inventories to all-time lows and the average price of a new vehicle to an unprecedented $45,000 in September 2021.

While some businesses struggled during the beginning of the pandemic last year, especially retailers, most were able to adjust. Manufacturers in particular have done well, reporting an average of 19% sales growth over the past 12 months.
Sales in the pickup, sports car, SUV, and classic vehicle segments continue to be strong, with many businesses once again seeing double-digit sales growth this year.

Supply-chain disruptions are starting to create some uncertainty. In the spring of 2021, 70% of specialty-equipment manufacturers and 75% of distributors expected their sales to grow over the coming year. However, those percentages have fallen to 58% and 52% respectively.

The temporary shifts towards online sales that were made necessary by the pandemic are continuing to reverse, with the majority of specialty-equipment parts sales once again flowing through in-person retail channels.
In the longer term, vehicle manufacturers’ plans to develop and sell more electric vehicles will require the specialty-equipment industry to plan for and adapt to these changes in the vehicle population.

For more data on the state of U.S. specialty-equipment market, download the SEMA State of the Industry—Fall 2021 report for free today at www.sema.org/research.

Tint World Continues Southern Expansion with Second Louisiana Location

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SLIDELL, LA (11.17.2021) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers, a leading auto accessory and window tinting franchise, announces the opening of a new location in Slidell, Louisiana, under the ownership of Johnnie Brown.

“We are excited that we can bring another great franchise like Tint World into the state of Louisiana,” Brown said. “Tint World provides franchisees with an exceptional level of support and the tools we need to prosper and grow. I’m passionate about the quality of automotive styling services we provide and the innovative products we will offer the people of Slidell.”

Brown and the crew at Tint World Slidell offer the latest in ultra-premium window tint, automotive aftermarket accessories, expert installation, and a top-notch staff of highly experienced installers and technicians.

“Johnnie is an excellent representative of the Tint World family,” said Charles Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “He is passionate about expanding the brand’s service options in Louisiana and is focused on building his location in a way that supports his community. Johnnie’s drive is going to lead to a great deal of success for him and Tint World.”

The newest location is open from Monday through Saturday and is located in St. Tammany Parish at 720 E 1-10 Service Road. For more information, call (504) 766-3400 or visit their website at https://www.tintworld.com/locations/la/slidell-114

Rock-N-Rev Sales & Marketing Awarded with Nakamichi “Rookie of The Year” Award

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PAPILLON, NE (11.17.2021) – Nakamichi has awarded their “Rookie Of The Year” Award to Rock-N-Rev Sales & Marketing.

Jeff (Boody) Budin of Rock-N-Rev gets a surprise in the mail.

“My dealers in the MINKS states are loving the Nakamichi line up,” commented Jeff (Boody) Budin of Rock-N-Rev Sales & Marketing. “Nothing like having a MAP Protected line with good margins.I’m honored to receive this award! A big Thank You to Robin and the rest of the team at Nakamichi.”

For more information on Nakamichi availability in the MINKS states, contact ROCK-N-REV SALES & MARKETING at rocknrevsales@gmail.com

JVC Mobile Entertainment Goes Off-Road

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LONG BEACH, CA (11.16.2021) – JVC Mobile Entertainment is excited to announce it is now shipping its IP67/IP66 Waterproof/Dustproof KS-DR2004D ($249.95 MAP) 4-Channel Compact Digital Amplifier.

The KS-DR2004D produces a conservatively-rated 50 Watts x 4 RMS at 4-Ohm, 75 Watts x 4 RMS at 2-Ohm, 150 Watts x 2 RMS at 4-Ohm, or 75 Watts x 2 + 150 Watts x 1 at 4-Ohm. It offers about every adjustment anyone could ask for behind its removable waterproof/dustproof panel; input sensitivity 4-12V (speaker level) 0.2-5V (RCA level), selectable/variable HPF/LPF (50-200Hz, -12dB/octave), 2ch or 4ch input mode selection, and 2ch or 3-4ch output mode selection. Engineered with installation flexibility in mind, this amplifier features channel mode selectors and signal sensing turn-on capabilities.

Besides the incredible amount of power for its size and ease of installation, what truly sets this amplifier apart is its strong weather protection performance. Its QUAD-proof protection incorporates certification at IPX7/IPX6 for water and dust, ASTM117 salt-spray testing for rust, and 3-axis multi-frequency testing for vibration. Its sealed cast aluminum chassis has silicon seals along with stainless steel bottom plate assembly screws. Connections include pigtail cables with molded strain relief bushings and an in-line fuse (40A) with a rubber cover.

The amplifier’s efficient and Class D design allows installation in the most demanding of environments, making it perfect for UTVs, ATVs, watercraft, motorcycles, golf carts, classic cars, and MORE!  Mud, Sand, Dirt, Rocks, or Water, the KS-DR2004D is BUILT TO LAST!

“JVC Mobile Entertainment is the 1-stop solution for all of your on and off-road vehicle sound needs,” said Ron Trout, Director of JVC Mobile Entertainment Sales. ”We’ve listened to what is being asked for in the market, and with its full weather-proof design, our engineering team truly knocked it out of the park with this one.”

KS-DR2004D web page:  http://www.us.jvc.com/car/marinemotorsports/ks_dr2004d/

For more information on JVC Mobile Entertainment, visit http://www.us.jvc.com/car.

Carbine Remote Starts Going Strong with Rock-N-Rev

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PAPILLON, NE (11.16.2021) – “The response to CARBINE Remote Starts and Alarm has been strong in the MINKS territory,” stated Rock-N-Rev Sales rep Jeff (Boody) Budin. “We got good inventory and it’s on an installation platform that all shops should recognize.”

Boody (at left) pictured with Heartland Audio owner Kevin Banaszak (middle) and manager Chris Burroughs.

Armando Parra of Carbine Retail and Silencer brands commented, “Our Carbine Retail and Silencer Distribution Security and Remote start solutions add value beyond a name brand. Jeff Budin at Roc N Rev and his retail and Distribution partners understand what it means to Welcome in and grasp “Change.” And I know this— dealers across Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska and Kansas embrace change, and they always lead and support that next great thing.”

Visit boodysgarage.com and carbine.com for more.

Retro Manufacturing Introduces the Denver Radio

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HENDERSON, NV (11.16.2021) – Retro Manufacturing has created a new radio for classic 60s vehicles like the International Scout that had smaller dash openings than the RetroRadio can accommodate. The Denver was designed to be similar to the RetroRadio but have a smaller nose at just 3.5” wide by 1.5” tall adding hundreds of 60s classic vehicle fitments to the robust RetroSound line-up. Classic car enthusiasts with 60s-70s GM, Chevrolet, International, and import vehicles can now seamlessly add modern sound to their classics without cutting or altering the original dash. The Denver is available in black or chrome with sleek rounded edges and classic push-buttons for a truly authentic look and feel.

The Denver Radio was the Runner Up for the Best New Interior Accessory at SEMA 2021. The Denver is shown with the Runner Up Ribbon in the New Product Showcase display.

The Denver is compatible with all RetroSound Radio Motors giving classic car fans all the features of a modern car stereo. Available features include built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calls and audio streaming, Made for iPod/iPhone compatibility, USB inputs for flash drives and media devices, and non-volatile memory. A 32,000 color digital display gives users the option to customize the display color to match their gauges and browse through media by artist, song title, or album. The Denver has a selectable AM/FM Tuner allowing the user to select between USA, EUR, AUS, JAP, and RUS turner frequencies with 30 pre-sets to store favorite stations.

A powerful 300-watt built-in amplifier provides plenty of power over 4 channels along with RCA pre-outs and a subwoofer output for customers looking to expand their audio system further. The Denver is available with SiriusXM, connecting directly to an SXV300V1 Connect Vehicle Tuner (sold separately) without the need for special adapters or cables. The SXV300V1 tuner adds SiriusXM broadcasts to your RetroSound radio with artist, channel, and song information shown directly on the radios display. The Denver is also available with HD Radio technology and DAB+ for superior radio reception.

MSRP on the Denver starts at $199.99 and will be available early 2022 at www.retromanufacturing.com.

The SEMA Show 2021 Plus Highlighting Five Retailers at SEMA 2021

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SHREVEPORT, LA (11.15.2021) – The SEMA Show 2021’s 4-Day run, November 2-5, was certainly unlike others in recent memory. The world, along with the 12volt industry, is approaching 2 years since the COVID 19 Pandemic turned most things upside down.

Current conditions certainly impacted SEMA 2021 as major brands choose not to exhibit. Thus many retailers, without their top brands exhibiting, made the decisions to skid SEMA 2021. Business across the 12volt retail industry has been strong in spite of many companies dealing with staff shortages. Overall product shortages is on the minds of all across the 12volt industry.

The new West Hall offers 1.400,000 sq ft of exhibit space.

Let’s not forget travel nightmares and mask mandates.

With all of the above, SEMA 2021 was reported to be the largest automotive aftermarket trade show in the last 2 years with over 100,000 in attendance. The 12volt portion of the North Hall has been declining over recent years and that decline, affected by conditions noted above, continued in 2021. In addition, the new West Hall opened with 1,400,000 square feet of exhibit space. Obviously, when the size of the dance hall increases and the number of dancers stays close to the same, the floor and aisles will be less crowded.

Team Nutz crew members Ed Nuttall, Mike Grosnick and Ben Bjerke (LtoR) by the Nakamichi North Hall booth they helped set up after flight cancellations from Miami delayed Nakamichi staff.

Let’s highlight 5 12volt retailers who looked at the big long term picture and chose to attend SEMA 2021.

Team Nutz, Pittsburgh PA, was in Vegas for the entire event with staff of 3. Owner Ed Nuttall, Ben Bjerke and Mike Gosnick flew to Vegas on Sunday with a solid plan for the week that included over seeing the presentation of the All Ways Safe Flag Truck project they completed. The vehicle was loaded with Memphis Audio products and was showcased in the Feature Vehicle area at SEMA. Also in their plan was to see other businesses in Vegas and network to the hilt. As it turned out they lended a big hand to setting up the new Nakamichi booth in the North Hall. Many flights were cancelled out of Miami which delayed the arrival of Nakamichi staff members.

ST Mobile Audio at the airport headed Vegas to see their project in the Memphis Audio booth. Shanda and Michael Stewart in the foreground with Hanna and Josh Hover.

Team Nutz also contributed a large number of images and info for coverage from the 12volt Central Studios. A big Thank You to Team Nutz.

ST Mobile Audio traveled from Texarkana TX with owner Mike Stewart and his wife Shanda. Josh Hover and wife Hanna also made the trip. ST Mobile Audio is widely known across several states for creative work in the PowerSports category. To that end ST Mobile Audio completed an amazing 2021 RZR Turbo S Crew that was spotlighted in the Memphis Audio North Hall booth. A Memphis MOJO enclosure was needed to climb into the driver’s seat. Also, a big Thank You to Michael Stewart for sending images and observations from the SEMA floor. The Tesla Tunnel too!

Wayne and Tina Holton in a hall at SEMA ready to check out thousands of new products.

Wayne Holton, with wife Tina, traveled from the Jackson MS area to attend SEMA. “This was my 11th SEMA Show and I could not miss attending. Our Audio Solutions 49 business is very strong and my new ground up build new store is rocking. In addition, our PowerSports store is going strong. That said, I could not miss SEMA 2021.”

Cody Landis-(R) Code Zero Customs  with West Coast Customs founder Ryan Friedlinghaus at SEMA 2021.

Cody Landis, Code Zero Customs in Tulsa OK, related “This was my first SEMA and I am so glad I went. We had 2 vehicles on site displayed by companies that we created. Seeing them on display in Vegas was amazing. In addition I was able to meet Ryan Friedlinghaus the Founder of West Coast Customs. I watched him on TV and he was definitely an important factor of my decision to make a career in the 12volt industry.”

AudioKing from Yakima WA attended SEMA 2021 with their entire crew. Seeing a post of them, all with a big Thumbs Up, in the AudioControl booth with Matt Palumbo was a very nice surprise to see on Instagram.

The AudioKing crew from Yakima WA traveled to Vegas for SEMA 2021. In the AudioControl booth in the North Hall with Matt Palumbo they give a BIG THUMBS UP. Alvaro Gutierrez, Jonathan Birrueta, Abraham Jimenez, David Garcia, owner Israel Zaragoza, Erick Jimenez, Matt Palumbo, Joel Zaragoza and Noe Suarez (LtoR). “Taking the whole crew to SEMA really shows how dedicated AudioKing is to this industry and their craft” Palumbo, AudioControl National Trainer, stated.

Great to see the dedication of the above 5 12volt retailers as well as all others that attended SEMA 2021.

Visit semashow.com for more.

Kingpin University Unveils Kingpin Fab Products Brand at SEMA

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LAS VEGAS, NV (11.15.2021) – Kingpin University (KPU) launched a new brand to distinguish its fabrication materials from its professional installer training. Kingpin Fab Products comprises the company’s templates, router bits, hand tools, fabrication aids and consumables. The new line debuted at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in the Cerwin-Vega / Diamond Audio booth.

The newest additions to the Kingpin Fab Products line include the second-generation Clean Wire System, which helps technicians highlight connectivity alongside creative amplifier and component layouts. The Router Shield System protects hands and deflects debris when using a router and features three sizes to match any project. In addition, the Kingpin Fab Products filler line consists of two versions—Create and Levitate – to give fabricators versatility in sculpting strength and finish. Additional products will be announced in the coming months.

“We’d like to thank Diamond Audio / Cerwin-Vega for giving us space in their booth to showcase and announce our launch,” said Jason Kranitz, president of Kingpin University and its accompanying retail store Kingpin Car and Marine Audio. “With the growth of our product line, we felt the timing was right to give our products branding that is separate from our training services. It also gives us the ability to market the product line beyond the mobile electronics industry. SEMA, despite lower overall attendance, was a great show for us and was the perfect kick-off for the new line.”

Kingpin Fab Products will soon receive its own website at kingpinfabproducts.com, where retailers will be able to place orders at wholesale pricing.

For more information on Kingpin University or Kingpin Fab Products, visit kingpinuniversity.com.

Tint World Names Brian Licata Digital Media Manager

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BOCA RATON, FL (11.15.2021) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers has named Brian Licata as the company’s Digital Media Manager. In his new role, Licata will spearhead Tint World’s online efforts to extend its reach and brand awareness.

Brian Licata

“As the Tint World franchise continues to grow, it’s more important than ever that we have a strong online presence,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, CEO and president of Tint World. “Brian’s media experience is exceptional, and I know he will deliver the high level of performance that we strive for at Tint World, as he widens our digital footprint.”

As Digital Media Manager, Licata oversees, manages, and edits video production and online content for Tint World.

Before joining Tint World, Licata served as a producer, podcaster, and editor for a variety of programming ranging from comedy specials to documentaries.

“Tint World already has an incredible online presence, unmatched by any other franchise within the industry,” Licata said “This is a great opportunity, and I’m excited to help take this brand to the next level.”

Visit tintworld.com for more.

Star Car Audio Wins NavAtlas Prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Spin 153

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SHREVEPORT LA (11.13.21) WTF…Win This Friday. Star Car Audio won the NavAtlas prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel on Friday morning, November 12th.

The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. Ten months ago we celebrated the 2nd Anniversary of the weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel.

Click to view.

The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for 153rd time on Friday morning November 12th. The Wheel landed on the NavAtlas space. The Star Car Audio slip was drawn from the jar and an Instagram post of the winning slip was posted.

We reached out by phone and talked with Miguel at the store in Hermiston OR. He had already seen the Instagram post was very happy to hear a NavAtlas prize would be heading their way. Miguel said business is rockin’ for their store.

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, Silencer, PowerBass, CRUX, DS18, SoundStream, JBL, Kenwood, Power Acoustik, JVC and Magnadyne. 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 and 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 and Modified Auto Sound in East Alton IL. Congratulations to all.

WTF… Where’s the Fun. On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel… on Friday, November 19th.