DEI a Sponsor of 2021 One Lap of America

AVON LAKE, OH (04.30.2021) – Design Engineering, Inc. is supporting the 2021 Tire Rack One Lap of America presented by Grassroots Motorsports Magazine, a unique weeklong drive-and-race event that covers 3,400 miles.

Piloting some of the world’s most advanced street cars, One Lap participants begin and end the event in South Bend, Indiana, following a circuitous route in between that takes them to facilities as far south as Avondale, Louisiana and then as far east as Summit Point, West Virginia.

Over the eight days of competition, drivers will test their overall skills in a variety of challenges including skid pad, autocross, drag strip, racetrack and highway transit. Teams are self-managed, have no support crews, and must start and finish on the same set of tires.

“We are excited to be a part of this annual historic event,” said Will Farkas, Social Media and Sponsorship Coordinator at DEI. “It really is a true test of endurance and vehicle preparation, and we’ll be offering a discount on our products for all 2021 One Lap of America race teams.”

Participating facilities include Tire Rack, Memphis International Raceway, Eagles Canyon Raceway, Grissom Air Reserve Base, NOLA Motorsports Park, Atlanta Motorsports Park, Lanier Raceplex, Summit Point Motorsports Park and GingerMan Raceway.

The event begins April 30 with driver registration and concludes May 8. Enthusiasts can follow along on Facebook and/or through available livestreams.

Visit designengineering.com and onelapofamerica.com for more.

CTA Announces Return to Las Vegas for CES 2022

ARLINGTON, VA (04.29.2021) – The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) today announced CES 2022, the world’s most influential technology event, will return to Las Vegas next year. Following a successful all-digital CES 2021 , CTA will convene the tech industry in-person and digitally, giving a global audience access to major brands and startups, as well as the world’s most-influential leaders and industry advocates. CES heads back to Las Vegas Jan. 5-8, 2022, with Media Days taking place Jan. 3-4, 2022.

Featured Exhibitors

Some 1000 companies have committed to showcasing their most innovative technologies in Las Vegas and companies are continuing to sign up. Attendees can expect to see global brands including Amazon, AMD, AT&T, Daimler AG, Dell, Google, Hyundai, IBM, Intel, Lenovo, LG Electronics, Panasonic, Qualcomm, Samsung Electronics and Sony. Companies including Caterpillar, Indy Autonomous Challenge and Sierra Space are planning to make a Las Vegas debut in 2022. Eureka Park will return with startups representing countries around the world, including large delegations from France, Italy, the Netherlands and South Korea.

“We’re thrilled to return to Las Vegas – home to CES for more than 40 years – and look forward to seeing many new and returning faces,” said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO, CTA. “Hundreds of executives have told us how much they need CES to meet new and existing customers, find partners, reach media and discover innovation.”

Digital audiences will also experience the spirit of the live event in Las Vegas. The CES anchor desk, which debuted at CES 2021, will travel to Las Vegas and connect the digital audience with exhibitors, conference sessions, keynotes and product announcements from the live event. New content will also be added once CES departs Las Vegas, enabling attendees and exhibitors to continue connecting and exploring.

“Our customers are enthusiastic about returning to a live event in Las Vegas,” said Karen Chupka, EVP, CES, CTA. “Global brands and startups have shared that plans are already well underway and are committed to sharing the magic of an in-person CES with even more people from around the world.”

CTA will be reviewing guidelines for coronavirus safety measures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in addition to state and local guidelines. CTA will be following applicable federal, state and local laws, adapting CES plans accordingly and sharing updates with its audiences.

Visit ces.tech and cta.tech for more.

Metra Electronics Ships New Soundbar Speaker Adapter and RGB Off-Road Fog Lights for Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator

HOLLY HILL, FL (04.29.2021) – Metra Electronics is expanding its Jeep Accessories line with two new aftermarket products designed to help installers upgrade the sound and lighting systems in Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator models. Metra’s new soundbar speaker adapter and RGB off-road fog lights complement the line’s existing speaker pods and RGB off-road headlights, offering a complete solution for Jeep upgrades.

Jeep owners who are upgrading the sound system now have a solution to retain the factory soundbar and upgrade to larger speakers in 2018-up* Jeep Wrangler JL and 2020-up* Jeep Gladiator models. The JP-1015 is designed to adapt the OEM four-inch speakers and one-inch tweeter to an aftermarket 6.5-inch speaker and optional tweeter. A harness is included along with a mounting plate and cutting template to assist with modifications to the interior material of the soundbar. The soundbar speaker adapter enclosure is made from high-quality ABS plastic and designed to withstand the harsh elements of off-road environments.

Metra’s JP-1014 replacement speaker pods for 2018-up* Jeep Wrangler JL and 2020-up* JeepGladiator models are a recommended accessory to complement the new JP-1015 when upgrading the sound system. This pair of sealed speaker pods replaces the original four-inch speakers located under the driver and passenger dashboard to install a six to 6.75-inch aftermarket speaker. They are constructed with ABS housing that utilizes the factory mounting locations for a secure fit that will heighten the listening experience. The pods were first introduced at SEMA360 and use the factory grommet and wiring, with a Metra speaker adapter harness included.

To add style and visibility to Jeep Wrangler JK, JL, and Gladiator models, the JP-704RGBFL are a set of four-inch RGB backlit halo off-road fog lights designed to match Metra’s existing JP-704RGB seven-inch round off-road headlights**. The polycarbonate lens cover is virtually unbreakable and the lights are built with a die-cast aluminum housing, rated IP67 to withstand harsh weather and off-road environments. The 15 white LEDs have a bright 800-lumen output for each fog light, consuming 30 watts total per light.

The backlight RGB lights have 16 million different color options using the Metra RGB smartphone app*, which will also sync with the JP-704RGB headlights to complete the look. The fog lights are plug-n-play with Metra’s RGB-CB1 controller, which is sold separately and required for operation. Depending on the model or trim leveTl, additional fog light mount brackets may be required for the installation, and installers should see the JP-JFOG or JP-JFOG2 for vehicle-specific details. All of these products are in stock and shipping now.

Visit MetraOnline.com for up-to-date, vehicle specific information.

SSV Works to Exhibit During 2021 Rally on the Rocks

OXNARD, CA (04.29.2021) – It’s been quite a year for all of us, and so many have taken to the outdoors in record numbers as an escape. So, once again, it only makes sense the market leader in off-road audio systems and accessories makes its presence known during one of the biggest events of the year.

SSV Works will be exhibiting at the 2021 Discount Tire Rally on the Rocks from May 12-15 in San Juan County, UT.

“Every year, we circle Rally on the Rocks as a top exhibiting event for us, and we can’t wait to get over to Utah for the 2021 event,” said Trevor Kaplan, SSV Works CEO. “SSV Works offers the industry’s only weatherproof Polaris RZR Pro XP full aftermarket audio solution, and the 2021 Rally on the Rocks is an ideal occasion to showcase our new and exciting audio kits to thousands of side-by-side enthusiasts.”

SSV Works is also participating as a sponsor for the Rally on the Rocks Taco Dinner Night this year.

“We feel we need to show our appreciation to the Powersports community for staying strong through the tough times we all have been experiencing,” Kaplan continued. “This is our way to give back to say ‘Thank you’ and offer some amazing audio prize packs for the nights’ raffle. It’s going to be a blast seeing all of our friends after so long!”

Last year SSV Works announced a collaboration with JVC in which SSV Works is now the exclusive Powersports distributor for the KD-MR1BTS marine/powersports digital media receiver.

“That success has led us to adding this incredible receiver to our XP1000 kits,” Kaplan concluded. “Our customers asked for an easy plug-and-play upgrade, we listened, and now they have it!”

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

Businesses Eager to Reconnect at SEMA Show

DIAMOND BAR, CA (04.28.2021) – Following Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak’s recent announcement to reopen the state at 100 percent capacity by June 1, SEMA Show exhibitors are demonstrating their commitment and excitement for the 2021 SEMA Show by securing booth space at the event taking place in Las Vegas, Nevada.

“The industry has spent the past year separated, and businesses are anxious and eager to reconnect in person,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “We’re seeing more and more manufacturers sign up to exhibit at the SEMA Show every day, and we anticipate hundreds more will do so before the Priority Booth Space Draw begins in June.”

SEMA Show exhibitors are demonstrating their excitement for the 2021 SEMA Show by securing booth space at the event taking place November 2-5 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

More than 1,200 companies are already confirmed to exhibit at the event on November 2-5, at which time the SEMA Show will mark the first industry-wide in-person gathering in almost two years. While manufacturers are able to secure space up until the event in November, those who submit their space applications before May 7 will be included the Priority Booth Space Draw, a multi-week process when exhibitors select their space within the 3.2 million square foot Las Vegas Convention Center.

Utilizing the Las Vegas Convention Center’s newly constructed West Hall, the SEMA Show will include exhibits in all four halls, seminars in dozens of meeting rooms, networking events in nearby ballrooms and special displays and interactive attractions in the outdoor areas.

Having been separated for more than a year, manufacturers are making plans to impress the industry with enhanced booths and unique displays.

“We are hearing an overwhelming response from exhibitors,” said Gattuso. “They have nearly two years’ worth of innovation to share, and they will be showing it off at the SEMA Show. Based on what we are hearing, exhibitors are pulling out all the stops.”

Since 1967, manufacturers of automotive aftermarket parts have relied on the SEMA Show to debut their new products, showcase new trends and conduct business. Made up mostly of small- to mid-size manufacturers with a deep passion for turning everyday drivers into one-of-a-kind works of art, exhibitors take center stage as they unveil groundbreaking and ingenious products that enhance the performance, styling and functionality of cars, trucks and SUVs. This year more than any other year, designers and engineers are pushing the boundaries to advance the industry.

Manufacturers can apply for booth space at www.semashow.com, where applications for attendee registration will open in May.

Brandmotion Releases Transparent Trailer Rear Vision System

SOUTHFIELD, MI (04.28.2021) – Brandmotion’s Transparent Trailer Rear Vision System is here to reset your driving experience by helping you see what you’ve never seen before. This versatile new safety and convenience aid replaces your current rearview mirror with a live streaming full HD video screen. It improves on your traditional mirror by providing a clear, crisp view of exactly what you need to see with no obstructions, in your cabin or with your trailer. It’s unbeatable view gives drivers peace of mind. 

Get assistance when backing up trailers up to 65’ long. A single camera is installed on the end of the trailer, with a harness running the length to the trailer hitch, using quick disconnect weatherproof connectors that integrate into the body. This clean OEM look allows for the trailer to be easily detached. When fully installed the image from the rear camera cleanly displays on the newly installed edge-to-edge mirror in the cab with virtually no latency thanks to high quality cabling.

This Universal Transparent Trailer Rear Vision System is designed to be able to easily add a camera to any trailer up to 65′ long. This kit will come with a single camera, quick disconnect truck-to-trailer harness, a 10m truck harness, a 20m trailer harness, and a 9.66″ edge-to-edge display mirror as a complete rear vision solution.

This kit is designed to function in a wide variety of vehicles utilizing a D-Tab Wedge mount. Some vehicles may require an adaptor. Please verify product fits in desired location before final installation.

Please see the Rear Vision Application Guide for compatibility questions.

Visit brandmotion.com for more.

Design Engineering Introduces Mazda Miata Vibration Damping Kits

AVON LAKE, OH (04.28.2021) – Give your Mazda Miata the quiet interior of a large luxury sedan with new Vibration Damping Kits (# 50600) from Design Engineering, Inc.

Designed to fit 1990-2005 Mazda Miata NA & NB models, the kits reduce noise and vibrations coming from metal surfaces to help interiors stay cool and quiet, with improved acoustics as well.

“We are excited to introduce Vibration Damping Kits for Mazda Miata’s, featuring proven Boom Mat damping material,” says Mike Buca of DEI. “Adding Boom Mat to the metal floors, firewall, rear bulkhead and rear deck greatly reduce rattles, squeaks and vibrations.”

These custom pre-cut kits feature self-adhesive backing with a simple-to-peel release liner for a straightforward, no-mess, easy installation. The pieces are pliable and designed specifically to form to the Miata’s bends and curves, even in tight spaces.

Kits include four 6″x6″ and four 12″x12″ sheets of black Boom Mat damping material, a 2” wide by 20 foot roll of black Boom Mat Vibration Damping & Sealing Tape and an application roller. Couple DEI’s Vibration Damping Kit with DEI’s Mazda Miata Pre-Cut Interior Insulation Kit (# 50295) for winning ultra-level comfort combination.

For more information about Mazda Miata Vibration Damping Kits, Mazda Miata Pre-Cut Interior Insulation Kits and DEI’s complete line of performance heat and sound control products, visit www.DesignEngineering.com.

Rhodes Off-Road Has Huge Success with Grand Opening

All was set for the Grand Opening with the crew. Jeff Budin ROCK-n-REV Sales, Steve Robinson, Ron Rhodes-Owner and Anthony Keller are pictured outside the front entrance of the new store.

Farmington, MO (04.27.2021) – Despite Gloomy Weather and a National Pandemic, RHODES OFF-ROAD in Farmington, MO was able to produce a very successful GRAND OPENING sale from its new building on Saturday.

With the help of Jeff (Boody) Budin at ROCK-N-REV Sales, store owner Ron Rhodes tells 12-Volt News that sales were strong and the vendor support was amazing.

The showroom was packed with PowerSports products…and important customers.
The MTX tent, and UTV’s out front, attracted attention to the Grand Opening.
MTX is a major line at Rhodes Off-Road and Jeff Budin, the Rep for the MINK States arranged for lots of SWAG for the Grand Opening.
Extra loud portables. That category is growing and Jeff Budin (L) is shown with a happy BUMPBOXX customer.

“I’d like to thank Boody for his help with the show. Jeff took a lot of the pressure off me by helping with the over-flow of customers,” stated Rhodes “Really impressed with how much MTX AUDIO shelled out for our show. We got a ton of POP Material and free swag that Jeff gave out for contest and prize drawing winners. We about sold out of MTX audio kits and sound bars”

Rhodes Off-Road was also able to secure a live radio spot with the area’s top country station Froggy 96 FM who promoted the BumpBoxx ghetto blasters Rhodes had on sale.

Rhodes continued, “That really helped. Jeff was able to jump on the radio with the DJ and excited customers to come down. We ended up having a real strong day despite the rain and covid.”

For more information on MTX Audio and BumpBoxx, contact ROCK-N-REV Sales at rocknrevsales@gmail.com. Rock-N-Rev Sales services the MINKS states in the Midwest.  

Alpine Electronics Now Shipping the New PXE-0850X Digital Sound Processor

AUBURN HILLS, MI (04.27.2021) – Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. is now shipping the PXE-0850X 12-Channel Advanced Wireless Digital Sound Processor (DSP). This solution replaces the PXE-0850S with the next generation of upgraded technology that allows integration into factory systems.  

OEM Integration

The PXE-0850X has 6 low and/or high-level inputs that can be mixed to create a full range signal that sends up to 12 independent channels for versatility in OEM and aftermarket system building. Eight of the 12 channels can utilize 25W of powered output to allow even more flexibility. New and improved software matches the user interface (UI) of the PXE-X09 (introduced in 2020) and provides a cleaner layout that simplifies the mixer and tuning flow. 

Tuning Tools

The processor can be tuned with the 31 Band Parametric or Graphic EQ for precise adjustments. Detailed high/low crossovers and expansive time correction can be made to each of the 12 channels. This allows the tuner to overcome acoustical abnormalities in the vehicle and set a proper sound stage for premium sound performance. Tuning can be done wirelessly via Bluetooth from a smartphone or through a wired USB connection with a PC. By downloading the free PXE-0850X DSP app (available on the App Store or Google Play), customers can get real-time tuning results and compare them with the “Before” and “After” effects. Tuning files can be saved directly to a smartphone, hard drive, or thumb drive for storage and shared via text message or email.   

Music on Command 

Access to some of the DSP’s features is presented in the improved LCD controller, which can be flush-mounted on the dash for easy access. The rotary knob can quickly adjust volume, preset storage and recall, subwoofer level, and source selection with results displayed on the LED screen.   

The PXE-0850X can also be used as a head unit or music source in older vehicles. The PXE-0850X can receive music sent directly from a smartphone with Bluetooth wireless streaming, so customers can listen to their playlists without replacing the factory head unit or adding an aftermarket head unit.   

The PXE-0850X is now shipping at a MAP of $699.95 and will be available at Alpine Authorized retailers and Preferred Online Stores. Installation options can be found on the Alpine-USA website through the store locator. 

Tech specs:

  • New and improved user interface (UI) 
  • Bluetooth audio streaming with included external module 
  • Wireless sound tuning via smartphone. PC tuning also available 
  • Improved Dash-mounted remote controller included
  • 6 Low and/or High-level inputs 
  • 12 RCA outputs  
  • Matrix Mixing 
  • 25W RMS x 8 (4Ω, <1% THD+N, 14.4V) (mirrors the first 8 RCA outputs) 
  • Frequency range: 20Hz ~ 20KHz, 1Hz steps 
  • Q: 0.404 ~ 28.85, 0.01 steps 
  • Gain: -12.0dB ~ +12.0 dB, 0.1 dB steps 
  • Filter crossover points: 20Hz – 20KHz. 1Hz steps 
  • Slopes: 12dB, 18dB, 24dB, 30dB, 36dB, 42dB, 48dB 
  • 31 Band Parametric or Graphic Output EQ 
  • High pass, low pass, and bandpass, independent filters per channel 
  • Time correction: Up to 20ms delay per channel 
  • Delay units: 0.000 to 20 milliseconds, 0.00 to 692 centimeters, 0.00 to 273 inches 
  • 0 deg. or 180 deg. phase adjustment per channel 
  • Specialized type filtering: Butterworth, Linkwitz-Riley, Bessel 
  • TI 32-bit DSP with 300MHz floating point processing 
  • TI 24-bit premium audio ADC/DAC

Visit www.alpine-usa.com for more.

Race Sport Lighting Launches “CORE” Product Lineup with DAS Companies Inc.

RINGWOOD, IL (04.27.2021) – Race Sport Lighting is excited to partner with DAS Companies Inc. in the Mid-Atlantic territory with new 2021 lighting technologies. It was necessary to expand distribution to get dealers the lighting products they need fulfilled same or next day for the job.

DAS dealer accounts can begin ordering their favorite Race Sport Lighting products immediately to ship in April. The product mix in-house at DAS will be focused on “CORE” lighting top sellers like:

·         GEN6® Plug-n-Play Canbus Kits

·         Terminator™ LED Kits

·         NEW Drive Series V2 All—in-One Kits

·         ColorADAPT® interior, exterior and underbody kits

·         ColorSMART® Bluetooth App controlled products

·         Eco-Series light bars and auxiliary spots

·         LED Logo Rocker Switches

·         And more…

Steve Jergensen, Race Sport Lighting President commented, “DAS has been a great distributing partner for several years, and I am excited to revamp the mix at DAS to focus on our nationwide best sellers. Having the latest technologies available same or next day is important for our dealers. This stocking mix in their warehouse will be a huge home run for their dealer base.”

Rex Berfield, DAS National Sales Manager commented, “We continue to work toward meeting and exceeding the expectations of our dealer base with opportunities and solutions. We have added another great dealer solution. Race Sport, known in our industry as a company synonymous with innovation and multi-application lighting solutions, is now available to our dealer-partners. We are incredibly pleased to partner with the Race Sport’s team and look forward to the new opportunities this partnership will present our dealers.” 

Visit racesportinc.com and dasinc.com for more.