Alpine Returns To New Jersey Jeep Invasion As The Official Audio Sponsor

AUBURN HILLS, MI (07.10.25) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”) announced that they will return to the 2025 New Jersey Jeep® Invasion as the Official Audio Sponsor.

Alpine will have a booth during the vendor show from Friday, July 11 to Sunday, July 13 where they will offer special, event-only pricing on all products. As part of their continued investment, Alpine will increase their booth presence by 2000 square feet to showcase more exciting solutions designed uniquely for the Jeep® driver.

In addition to the vendor booth, Alpine will also have an installation bay, powered by Tampa-based Alpine Authorized Retailer Soundwaves, so customers can drive home with their Alpine purchase installed. The installation space will be located directly next to the Alpine booth space in Install Alley.

This image from a previous year shows Jeeps set up for demos and sales presentations.

Two Alpine 2018 Jeep® Wrangler demo vehicles will be on-site, featuring the i509-WRA-JL, a 9-inch Weather-Resistant Digital Media Receiver with Hi-Res Audio Playback. The unit was intentionally designed with the Jeep® driver in mind to visually emulate the design identity of the Jeep® interior and retain the features Jeep® drivers use the most. Other features, like wireless and wired Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, Hi-Resolution Playback (96kHz/ 24Bit), and one of the industry-first SiriusXM-Ready® head units enhanced with 360L and Hi-Res music streaming with TIDAL, make this the ultimate upgrade for the Jeep® driver.

Small ducks are standard giveaways at Jeep events and this inflatable duck took it to a new level in the above image from a previous year.

A premium Dash Camera DVR-C320R with built-in drive assist and impact recording will also be installed to showcase the head unit pairing capabilities of the i509-WRA-JL. An Alpine PSS-24WRA sound system, with front 6.5” component speakers, 6.5” rear custom soundbar replacement speakers, 8” compact powered subwoofer, and 4-channel amplifier will be featured for in-vehicle sound upgrade demonstrations as well as an Alpine Weather-Resistant PSS-SX01 Sound System mounted to the roll bars to demonstrate exterior sound upgrade opportunities.

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

All event visitors are encouraged to visit the Alpine booth and take advantage of the special, event-only deals and on-site installation services during the event.

Jeep® is a registered trademark of Stellantis NV

Visit www.alpine-usa.com for more.

ZZ2 Launches ZZC-SY4C: Advanced Multi-Camera Add-On System for Ford SYNC 4 Vehicles

BOCA RATON, FL (07.10.25) – ZZ2, a leader in automotive technology solutions, proudly announces the launch of its latest innovation: the ZZC-SY4C, a cutting-edge camera interface designed specifically for Ford vehicles equipped with SYNC 4 systems. This advanced add-on empowers drivers with up to three external camera views, significantly enhancing visibility and maneuverability—especially for those driving large vehicles with limited external sight lines.

The ZZC-SY4C is engineered to seamlessly integrate front, side (left/right), 3rd brake light camera, truck cargo bed camera or trailer camera into Ford’s SYNC4 factory infotainment system, offering a meaningful and useful level of safety, comfort, and driving awareness. Whether navigating tight parking lots, connecting your 5th wheel or making safer lane changes, this system equips drivers with real-time visual feedback from blind spots and the front of the vehicle.

” The ZZC-SY4C reflects our commitment to transforming customer needs into robust, OEM-integrated solutions,” said Tiago Sperandio, Vice President of ZZ2.

Key Features Include:

Three camera inputs compatible with front, side, truck bed camera (3rd brake light camera) or rear aftermarket cameras

Smart triggers based on gear selection and turn signals

OEM-level integration with Ford SYNC 4 infotainment systems

Multiple camera activation methods, including automatic, steering wheel controls, or external buttons

Built-in Video-In-Motion (VIM) mode for added flexibility, unlocking the keyboard while in motion.

The ZZC-SY4C also includes customizable DIP switch configurations and a comprehensive set of installation options that make it versatile for both everyday drivers and professional installers.

With demand growing for advanced driver assistance features, the ZZC-SY4C gives Ford vehicle owners a convenient and cost-effective upgrade path to better awareness and peace of mind behind the wheel.

The ZZC-SY4C is now available through authorized ZZ2 dealers and distributors. CLICK HERE

For more information, visit https://zz-2.com/products/zzc-sy4c or contact us at sales@zz2.com.

2025 MLB All-Star Week Programming on SiriusXM

NEW YORK, NY (07.10.25) – SiriusXM will offer listeners nationwide coverage of the events of Major League Baseball’s 2025 All-Star Week, with live broadcasts of the 95th All-Star Game Presented by Mastercard, the T-Mobile Home Run Derby, the MLB Draft Presented by Nike, and more special programming from Atlanta, GA.

On Sunday, July 13, starting at 5pm ET, SiriusXM’s MLB Network Radio channel will offer live coverage of the first round of the MLB Draft Presented by Nike, from the Coca-Cola Roxy in The Battery Atlanta. SiriusXM listeners will hear the live selections of every team in the first round. SiriusXM’s Dani Wexelman and Grant Paulsen will host alongside former MLB general managers Jim Bowden and Jim Duquette, two longtime pro personnel experts who will react to picks and share their analysis. 

For Monday’s T-Mobile Home Run Derby, SiriusXM’s on-site programming from Truist Park will begin at 2 pm ET with a Media Day show hosted by Dani Wexelman, Jim Duquette and Grant Paulsen. At 5 pm ET Mike Ferrin, Jim Bowden and former big leaguer Cole Tucker will be on the field to host SiriusXM’s pre-game programming and interview many of the All-Stars in attendance. The MLB Network Radio channel will air ESPN Radio’s broadcast of the Home Run Derby starting at 8 pm ET. 

On Tuesday, July 15, MLB Network Radio’s coverage of the MLB All-Star Game Presented by Mastercard begins at 5 pm ET with an MLB All-Star Pregame Show hosted by Mike Ferrin, Cole Tucker and Jim Duquette. Listeners will hear interviews with many of the coaches and players on the field at Truist Park The pre-game show will lead into ESPN Radio’s play-by-play broadcast of the All-Star Game starting at 8 pm ET.

Beyond the special coverage of these All-Star Weekend events, MLB Network Radio offers baseball fans a daily lineup of MLB talk 365 days a year, featuring shows hosted by former players, managers, front office executives and other baseball insiders. The exclusive 24/7 channel is available to listeners nationwide in their cars on channel 89 and on the SiriusXM app: https://sxm.app.link/MLBonSXM

In honor of the Midsummer Classic being played in Atlanta, MLB Network Radio will also be re-airing three Atlanta Braves-themed episodes of “The Road to Cooperstown” podcast, which is a collaboration between SiriusXM and the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. Listeners will hear in-depth conversations between SiriusXM host Jon Morosi and legendary Braves John SmoltzChipper Jones and Tom Glavine as they share memories from their extraordinary lives and careers on their journey to the Hall of Fame.

SEMA Show Partners with TechForce Foundation to Host National Awards Honoring the Next Generation of America’s Skilled Workforce

DIAMOND BAR, CA (07.09.25) – TechForce Foundation, a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to building the pipeline of skilled technicians, has partnered with the SEMA Show, the automotive aftermarket industry’s premier trade event, to present the 7th annual Techs Rock Awards. For the first time in the program’s history, the Awards will be presented live on stage at the 2025 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

Each year, the Techs Rock Awards recognize standout students and working professionals in the technician field. This year marks a major milestone. Honorees/grand prize recipients will be celebrated live at the SEMA Show, the epicenter of the global automotive aftermarket. In front of thousands of manufacturers, employers, educators, and media, the nation’s top technicians will receive the recognition they have earned through their skill, dedication, and impact.

Winners will be honored on Nov. 5, 2025, during the SEMA Show. Finalists will be selected in six categories: Automotive and Motorsports, Diesel, Collision Restoration and Welding, Aviation Motorcycle and Marine, and Evolving Technologies and HVAC. This year’s judging panel will include well-known voices in the industry, including ChrisFix, YouTube’s most-followed automotive DIY creator, and Humble Mechanic, a trusted voice in technician education and culture.

Technicians are the workforce behind every vehicle on the road, every aircraft in the sky, and every delivery that reaches its destination. These careers are essential to our economy, but they are too often overlooked.

“Technicians don’t just fix things. They keep America moving,” said Jennifer Maher, CEO of TechForce Foundation. “The SEMA Show gives us a national platform to say, ‘We see you. We value you.’ And for the students preparing to join the workforce, it shows there is a future in this field that is respected and real.”

“The SEMA Show is where the automotive aftermarket industry’s future takes shape — through breakthrough products, new ideas, and rising talent,” said RJ de Vera, SEMA Vice President of Marketing. “Technicians play a critical role in that future, and with the TechForce Foundation, we’re proud to spotlight and support those who will carry the torch forward.”

Nominations open June 24 and close Aug. 11. Anyone can nominate a deserving student or technician at www.techforce.org/techsrock. A panel of judges will review submissions and select the finalists. From Sept. 24 through Oct. 15, the public will vote to determine one student and one working technician as Grand Prize Winners. Both will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Las Vegas to be honored on stage during the SEMA Show.

Since 2018, the Techs Rock Awards have recognized 77 outstanding students and technicians. The program highlights the value of technical careers and helps lift up role models who are shaping the future of the skilled trades.

Visit www.semashow.com and www.techforce.org for more.

SSV Works Introduces Industry-First Rear-Seat Dual-Sub Add-on Kit for 2024-Up CanAm Maverick R Max Vehicles

ST. GEORGE, UT (07.09.25)SSV Works proudly announces the release of the first-ever rear-seat plug-&-play dual-subwoofer add-on kit for the 2024-2025 Can-Am® Maverick R Max.

This new kit adds two additional 10” subwoofers that mount under the rear seats, giving riders the ability to run up to four subs total in their Maverick R Max for maximum bass performance.

“This is the ultimate bass upgrade for anyone who already has an audio system and wants more output,” said Kelson Downes, Marketing Director of SSV Works. “With this add-on, you’re not replacing anything, you’re enhancing it. It delivers that chest-thumping bass you can feel whether you’re bombing through the dunes, crawling rocks, or blasting through the desert.”

True Plug-&-Play Expansion. Designed to work seamlessly as an add-on to an existing audio system, this kit integrates effortlessly with SSV Works V-Spec or K-Spec kits, other aftermarket setups, and even the factory JL audio system. It includes pre-loaded under-seat enclosures, a dedicated sub amplifier, and SSV’s signature plug-&-play wiring. No cutting, splicing, or guesswork required.

Built for the Ride. From rotomolded enclosures to marine-grade materials, every element is engineered to thrive in harsh off-road environments. The enclosures are specifically shaped to fit cleanly under the rear seats without interfering with passenger space or vehicle function.

Key product highlights:

  • Plug-&-Play: No Soldering, cutting or crimping! Designed to install as easy as possible. Simply bolt down the sub enclosures with the pre-installed speakers, mount the amp and run the vehicle specific plug-&-play wiring, turn the key and go!
  • F3™ – The Original Factory Fit & Finish: Each Maverick R Kit looks just the way it should, like it came straight from the factory. Purpose built, our enclosures match the factory styling and fits with seamless precision.
  • Trail Ready™: Built for the off-road environment, SSV Works’ audio components will withstand all the harsh riding conditions. From sand, dust, water or snow, you can ride your favorite trails without sacrificing premium audio from SSV Works.
  • Premium Quality: Our product is meticulously crafted with high-strength materials, epitomizing premium quality and durability.
  • Included Bass Level Control: Adding this kits means you’ll have two amplifiers. Our dual amp controller will allow you to control the bass to all subs. (Only compatible with PXA amps in SSV V-Spec and K-Spec kits.

Backed by a limited lifetime warranty, this innovative audio solution promises both superior sound and long-lasting reliability.

For more information, please visit www.SSVWorks.com, call 818-991-1SSV (1778), or email sales@SSVworks.com.

Feel Colossus Power Through Classic Inspiration

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (07.09.25) – Take your power to the Classic level of COLOSSUS AUDIO! Colossus Classic amplifiers set the standard for what clean and powerful audio should sound like. Known for sleek design and exceptional sound performance — Colossus Classic amplifiers include monoblock amplifiers and a 4-channel amplifier.

Click here to view a product video.

Whether upgrading your Hifonics car audio system with BIG POWERgains or building your install/setup for the first time, Colossus Classic amplifiers bring a classic size that delivers LOUD SOUND, clean clarity, and ULTIMATE durability.

To learn more, click here.

JVC Mobile Entertainment Appoints SMS as New Representative for TX/OK/LA/AR Region

LONG BEACH, CA (07.08.25) – JVC Mobile Entertainment is proud to announce the appointment of Special Market Sales (SMS) as its new manufacturer’s representative firm for the Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Arkansas markets. This strategic partnership reinforces JVC’s commitment to strengthening dealer relationships and expanding market presence in the region.

Mark Dombroski, Western Sales Manager for JVC Mobile Electronics, expressed confidence in the new alliance: “SMS is the perfect fit for JVC. Their dedication to dealer relationships and outstanding follow-through aligns seamlessly with how we do business. We’re excited about the opportunities this partnership brings.”

Based in the region they now represent, SMS brings decades of experience and a strong reputation for integrity and performance. Their core philosophy emphasizes long-term partnerships over short-term gains, with many of the brands they represent working with them for more than 15 years—a testament to the trust and consistent results they deliver.

The SMS team includes some of the most seasoned professionals in the 12-volt industry:

  • Dave Gill, who has been in the business since 1986
  • Gilliama “Yam” Domino, who began his career as an installer in 1984
  • Robert “Bob” Connacher, who entered the retail side of the industry in 1988

Each team member brings extensive experience across installation, sales, retail operations, and business development. Keeping everything on track is Whitney Tomlinson, SMS’s Director of Communications, who joined the team in 2021 and plays a vital role in client and brand communications.

With this partnership, JVC Mobile Entertainment looks forward to expanding its footprint in the region and delivering even greater value to its dealers and customers.

For more information, please visit www.jvc.com.

SkillsUSA Shined at the 2025 Nationals in Atlanta

ATLANTA, GA (07.08.25) – 12volt brands KICKER and DB Drive once again worked with SkillsUSA’s initiative to train installers for the 12volt industry workforce. This year the KICKER Tech Force manager Aaron Malin and trainer Jacob Luckey were on site to judge at the SkillsUSA Championships June 23-27. DB Drive’s Randy Goodwin, along with James Simpson from Vickers AV, were also on site again during SkillsUSA’s annual National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta. Goodwin was also a competition Judge.The SkillsUSA Championships is the premier showcase of America’s most highly skilled career and technical education for students.

The Mobile Electronics portion of the Nationals event floor.

Chris Jack, SkillsUSA Mobile Electronics Chairman, along with Co-Chair Bryan Gary, were also on site to oversee the Mobile Electronics activities. Gary drove his 2016 Mustang convertible the 2000 miles round trip from Oklahoma to be on site for students to judge the custom aftermarket system in the vehicle. Gary supplied images in this article.

Gary’s Mustang showcased for students score with KICKER and DB Drive setups in the background.

“When I opened the trunk on the Mustang all the students’ eyes opened wide. When we cranked the system, installed by Audio Midwest, you could see the WOW on their faces. Actually experiencing a custom system was another element factor that engages the students for a career in the mobile electronics industry” Gary stated.

Nareh Shahgaldyan, event Bronze winner, scores Gary’s Mustang.

The Mobile-Electronics Installation category tested competitors’ abilities to perform standard installation practices used by certified, professional mobile-electronics installers, and established for the Basic MECP certification by the Consumer Electronics Association. The competition included a written exam, interviews, and multiple hands-on applications.

Aaron Malin, KICKER Tech Force Manager, interviews a student.

“We need these young men and women to join us in our quickly evolving industry,” said Malin, the supervisor of KICKER’s global training. “SkillsUSA’s competitive categories stresses various aspects of the real-world workplace, so when students graduate, they are positioned to immediately contribute on the job.”

Students are pumped as the competition wrapped prior to the evening awards ceremony.

For consecutive years, KICKER has been involved with SkillsUSA’s mission on national and local levels. In 2025 KICKER donated more than $5,000 in prizes to the winners of the 12-volt competitions.

The National’s Award Ceremony underway for Mobile Electronics students.

High School Winners

For more see www.skillsusa.com.

UTV Audio Roofs from MB Quart Set the Bar for Overhead Speaker Performance

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (07.08.25) – CLEAN detail. LOUD sound. OVERHEAD immersion. Feel it ALL with UTV Audio Roofs. Set out on the summer trails with MB Quart UTV Tuned Audio Roofs, exclusively engineered for Polaris RZR Trail and Polaris RANGER UTV vehicles. Get ready to embrace immersive overhead audio playback and redefine expectations.

With three Polaris RZR Trail and three Polaris RANGER UTV Tuned Audio Roofs to choose from in the MB Quart UTV Tuned Audio Roof lineup, you’ll be able to find that perfect audio roof companion for your Polaris RZR Trail or Polaris RANGER UTV vehicle.

To learn more, click here.

KICKER At The American Flat Track At The DUQUOIN Mile

DUQUOIN IL (07.07.25) The Progressive American Flat Track Series continued Saturday night July 5th with Round 8 at the DuQuoin State Fairgrounds with the Memphis Shades DuQuoin Mile. KICKER was set up outside the main entrance to the DuQuoin State Fair arena under a large tent. Lorin Morrell was joined by AFT Merchandise and Memphis Shades staff members. Memphis Shades was the Race Sponsor for Round 8.

The KICKER tent was set up right out front of the entrance.

The weather was hot and humid on the day after the 4th of July but all were Livin’Loud during the event on the track and in the booth. With the KICKER tent positioned right outside the entrance nobody missed the KICKER setup entering or leaving the event.

A wide selection of KICKER products was displayed.

“American Flat Tack and bike enthusiasts all recognize the KICKER brand and many stopped by the booth to see the latest products we had on display on the tables. At this event several people mentioned the KICKER gear they had on their bike or pickup. As a family event many children came along and were introduced to the KICKER brand. The racing was amazing too” Morrell related.

Racing on the track was amazing and intense.

Concluding “The racing on the mile track was action packed and we could hear the crowd cheering from the KICKER tent. The next race is at the Short Track at Lucas Oil Speedway Lucas Oil Speedway in Wheatland MO on July 18th. All will be Livin’Loud there as the 2025 American Flat Track series continues.”

Riders racing to the finish line!

For more see kicker.com