AVON LAKE, OH (08.10.2021) – Design Engineering, Inc. has introduced a new Interior Insulation Kit (# 050295) for the increasingly popular 1990-2005 first (NA) and second (NB) generation Mazda Miata models.
The Miata floor kit features DEI’s proven Under Carpet Lite material that insulates the cab from heat and blocks noise for a cool, comfortable ride.
As an added level of noise and vibration control, customers are encouraged to install DEI’s Mazda Miata Vibration Damping kit (# 50600).
“Whether your padding is worn out or you just want to upgrade your Miata’s interior, our DEI under-carpet kit does the trick,” says Mike Buca of DEI. “CNC-cut to precisely match the vehicle floor, it offers easy installation and years of trouble-free use.”
DEI’s Under Carpet Lite material is 1/2″ thick and engineered using multilayer construction to block heat and absorb engine and road noise. Pre-cut for an easy fit in 1990-2005 first (NA) and second (NB) generation Miata models, the material installs quickly on the vehicle floor to provide premium thermal insulation and reduces road and tire noise.
For more information about the Miata Interior Insulation Kit and DEI’s complete line of performance heat and sound control products, visit www.DesignEngineering.com.
PALMYRA, PA (03.09.2021) – DAS Companies, Inc. has announced the addition of a rugged line of vehicle recovery and adventurous Overlanding products, including accessories, from Off Terrain. Perfect for the Off-Road, Trucks, Jeeps, and 4WD vehicles, this heavy-duty line was specifically designed for the adventurous spirit in all of us.
The lineup is unique and includes products such as Recovery Ropes, Winch Kits & Ropes, Abrasive-free Shackle UHWMPE, 4WD Recovery Kits, ATV Towing Kits, 4×4 Winch & Accessories. Providing peace-of-mind that comes with knowing that you are prepared to handle situations that confront you when out venturing off the beaten path.
DAS now stocks and sells Off Terrain recovery and Overlanding products and accessories as the exclusive national distributor across the lower 48 states with inventory warehoused in east and western distribution hubs. “This Brand offers a great opportunity for our dealers. Strategically, the Off Terrain line will expand their existing 12Volt businesses with complementary products and allow dealers to reach new customers. It’s a natural extension that will attract additional vehicles into their bays,” stated Rex Berfield, National Sales Manager, DAS Companies, Inc.
Off Terrain Managing Director Tom O’Mara is incredibly excited about the DAS collaboration and said, “We have worked hard to design Overlanding gear to withstand long seasons, variable weather, and terrains of all kinds. Our gear is tough enough to handle your demands as a gear-head or outdoor enthusiast, but priced within reach – that was very important to us,” said O’Mara. “Partnering with DAS will expose this exciting and growing category to thousands of new dealers all over the country.”
Look for products and installations at your favorite car audio installer and 4×4 overland install shop.
CLEARWATER, FL (03.09.2021) – EchoMaster Fleet Solutions, the commercial division of AAMP Global, is showcasing their full-service solution capabilities for Fleet, Commercial, and OES at the NTEA Work Truck Week 2021 (WTW21).
EchoMaster Fleet Solutions is a full-service provider with a passion for engineering efficient solutions for Fleet, Commercial, and OES. From safety and security products, custom wiring harnesses, fleet monitoring, national installation services, and more – EchoMaster Fleet Solutions is dedicated to help deliver excellence for any upfitting need.
EchoMaster Fleet Solutions is featuring the following products and capabilities at WTW21:
Telematics: Real-time, on-demand GPS tracking and driver monitoring. Our telematics solution provides the fleet management tool you need for vehicle tracking and preventative safety. We offer a complete telematics solution – the hardware, the software, and support – everything you need to be successful.
Commercial-grade Safety Cameras and Monitors: Commercial-grade safety cameras and monitors, available in analog high definition (AHD), to help improve a driver’s situational awareness, enabling a safer, and more informed driving experience. We have universal and vehicle specific solutions.
Beepers and Sensors: We have commercial-grade products with audible and/or visual warnings to help vehicles avoid collisions.
Dash Cameras and DVRs: Dash Cams and DVRs add additional liability and protection when vehicles are driving or parked. We also have an OBD II adapter for a simplified and seamless installation.
Infotainment Display System, HEIGH10: Features a high resolution 10-inch capacitive touch screen, with 16.7 million colors for a full visual experience, HEIGH10 is designed to enhance screen size, and infotainment features for drivers in any vehicle. The display and main turner box have a modular design, bolstering installation flexibility in space limited applications and in some cases where no installation dash kit is available. HEIGH10 delivers a wide variety of media inputs and integration options so you have total control of your music, navigation and other media.
Custom Wiring Harness Manufacturing: We can develop custom wire harnessing solutions to help streamline and standardize installation services – for any vehicle. Our proficiency, experience and commitment to quality and timeliness are why our customers partner with us for their custom harnessing needs.
Custom Safety Solutions: We can create the perfect custom safety solution for your fleet. Adding safety features on your Fleet vehicles can help reduce the number of employee at fault incidents by minimizing vehicle blind spots.
Custom Lighting: Our customizable lighting systems helps improve visibility inside and outside of the vehicle – making it safer, easier, and more efficient to work or locate items.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (03.09.2021) – SEMA filed an amicus brief in a lawsuit between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Gear Box Z. Inc. (GBZ) arguing against the EPA’s contention that the Clean Air Act (CAA) does not allow a motor vehicle to be converted into a racing vehicle used solely for competition. In the lawsuit, the EPA asserts that once a vehicle has been certified as a street vehicle, it cannot be converted into a racing vehicle even if that vehicle is trailered to the track and is never driven on public roads.
In its brief, SEMA asserts that the Clean Air Act does not apply to converted street vehicles used exclusively on the track. SEMA states that “the agency’s interpretation breaks from the plain language of the CAA, the legislative history, and EPA’s regulations and guidance.” The amicus brief notes that the EPA’s position contradicts its longstanding guidance and regulations and that the EPA previously stated that it “has no interest in vehicles that begin their existence as normal, EPA-certified production vehicles used on public roads and are then permanently converted to sanctioned competition-use only vehicles.”
The EPA first pursued this controversial interpretation of the CAA as part of a 2015 draft rulemaking, but it withdrew the provision following a huge public outcry initiated by SEMA. The following year, members of Congress introduced SEMA-sponsored legislation to confirm what had already been understood for the previous 45 years, that the Clean Air Act does not apply to vehicles modified for racing use only. The “Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports Act” (RPM Act) is bi-partisan legislation that clarifies that it is legal to make emissions-related changes to a street vehicle for the purpose of converting it into a dedicated racecar. It also confirms that it is legal to produce, market and install racing equipment. The RPM Act will require the voice and support of every racing enthusiast together with the industry and SEMA as we fight to pass this important legislation to counter EPA overreach.
“The recent lawsuit reinforces the importance of the RPM Act,” said Daniel Ingber, SEMA Vice President of Legal and Government Affairs. “The legislation is consistent with the intention of the Clean Air Act and the way it was interpreted for decades. It is vital that Congress pass the RPM Act to put an end to EPA overreach. SEMA remains committed to passing this important legislation.”
The GBZ case is before the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona. SEMA will continue to fight the EPA’s flawed interpretation in court while urging the U.S. Congress to end the debate by enacting the RPM Act.
DALLAS, TX (03.08.2021) – The Keystone Big Show, at the Gaylord Resort and Convention Center on March 5th and 6th, was the first in-person automotive aftermarket trade show since the COVID-19 Pandemic gripped the U.S. Well over 100 companies showcased their latest products on the Convention Center show floor.
Ben Bjerke (L) and Doug Macher from Team Nutz flank Keystone representative Kyle Graziul on the Big Show floor Saturday afternoon.
Team Nutz, based in Pittsburgh PA, offers a wide variety of 12volt and automotive aftermarket products in their marketplace. Ed Nuttall related “When we heard about the upcoming Keystone Show is Dallas we quickly made the decision to attend. Keystone is a key vendor and we saw this as an opportunity to see firsthand the latest products from their vendors and network with other dealers at the show. We made plans for two staff members, Doug Macher and Ben Bjerke, to attend.
Macher and Bjerke hitched a ride on Southwest and they had a very productive two days at the Keystone Big Show. Macher related to 12volt News “We spent time in a lot of booths, talked with booth staff members and saw a ton of cool new products. Overall, Ben and I will take back a lot of information to Ed. It was a very informative event for us.”
Pickup trucks were spotlighted in many booths as attendees walked the event aisles.
“Team Nutz is a very proactive retailer and a post for the Keystone Big Show caught eyeballs at the 12volt Central Studios. That was when we learned Ed was sending Doug and Ben to the event. This article, spotlighting the Team Nutz trip to the Keystone Big Show, was a result of that Team Nutz Instagram post and following conversation” 12volt News staff related.
At the Keystone Big Show there were virtually no traditional 12volt companies exhibiting on the event floor. There was also very little buzz across the 12volt industry regarding the event even though 12volt companies are adding products from the automotive aftermarket category to their product mix..
Everything is big in Texas, with the Keystone Big Show being in a Big convention hall.
Lighting and associated products, which are selling well in the 12volt industry, shined brightly in several exhibitors’ booths.
As one on one in-person activity has been restricted it is still extremely important to communicate effectively. Many are saying they have been Zoom-called to death. Many in the industry bang out txt messages and emails like it’s a game. First one to 50 today wins is not a long term strategy for success.
Retailers meet face to face with consumers, and talk in person with those individuals, about products for their rides. It’s impossible for someone to feel bass in their chest on a smartphone, laptop or screen.
Thank you to all in the industry, like Ed Nuttall, who will talk to the 12volt Central Studios on the phone to generate positive visibility for their products and activities across the 12volt industry.
Using the 12volt STP Tool can get the ball rolling… Snap and Txt an image to 318-465-0844.
CLEARWATER, FL (03.08.2021) – The highly anticipated SPXM1 has arrived, just in time for boating and powersports season. The rugged infotainment hub puts a wide range of enhanced entertainment features into the hands of boaters and adventure seekers alike, and allows for a customizable experience.
SPXM1 adds a 2.7-inch full color display with LED-backlit buttons for viewing in all lighting situations, including while wearing polarized sunglasses. It is engineered to withstand the harsh elements experienced off-road or off-shore, with its IPX6-rated optical bonded front panel.
For the audiophiles, SPXM1 is small but mighty with its built-in high-power 45 x 4 amplifier, ensuring your favorite tunes are heard in outdoor settings. Tweak the sound to your liking using the onboard EQ (with eight presets) and subwoofer-level control. SPXM1 can be expanded and controlled with the onboard front and selectable rear/subwoofer RCA outputs. Listen to your media your way, via the many available sources including Bluetooth, global AM/FM weather-tuner, USB input for MP3/WMA/WAV files or a wired AUX RCA input.
Add the EchoMaster PCAM-150 camera using the onboard video input, to keep tabs on what’s going on around you. Keep an eye on that wakeboarder, boat or ATV behind you and add a layer of safety when docking or reversing.
Bonus: When paired with SwitchHUB, Stinger’s 4-channel 100 amp solid-state relay, SPXM1 becomes your all-in-one digital media control center. Power up to four accessories with SwitchHUB’s four independent outputs; one 40A and three 20A outputs, for a combined total of 100A continuous. Easily turn your devices on and off using the dedicated SPXM1 screen that shows the status of all four devices at once. SwitchHUB also allows for a much easier and cleaner install of your accessories.
SPXM1 key features include:
2.7-inch color display with LED-backlit buttons for easy viewing in any lighting setting
Selectable day or night modes
Built-in Bluetooth for music streaming
Other media sources such as global AM/FM weather-tuner, USB input for MP3/WMA/WAV files or a wired AUX RCA input
Camera input with external trigger
Water-resistant front panel (IPX-6 rating) for withstanding harsh outdoor elements
Two-piece mounting system to secure the panel to the mounting surface
Built-in 25 watts x 4 power amplifier (45W peak x 4)
Rear AUX input
4-channel preamp outputs (2-volt front and selectable rear/sub)
Easy subwoofer control
7-band graphic equalizer with (8) music genre presets
Memory saver – EEPROM non-volatile memory for retaining your presets and settings in case of a power outage, zero current draw in off-mode
TEMPE, AZ (03.08.2021) – Mobile Solutions announces the new Smart Router Table (SRT) system. It’s an industrial-grade router table with custom manufactured, welded and powder coated steel and has configurations that will suit any automotive audio or interior fabrication shop, from hardcore hobbyist to high-volume production operations. “It’s such an efficient way to add the production efficiency of a multi-bank router table without having to build it from the raw materials yourself. It’s a complete solution” says Mobile Solutions founder and president, Bryan Schmitt.
Schmitt and his team at Mobile Solutions designed and engineered the Smart Router Table (SRT) system to ensure that fabrication work has no barriers to efficiency, safety or quality. It is available in two or three bank configurations. The 1.25” high pressure laminated table top is balanced to ensure a level, safe surface on which to router even the most complex parts. Balancing a top involves lamination on both sides so the work surface doesn’t lose its true flat geometry. The top also has threaded inserts for machine hardware to bolt to the frame, as well as the optional particle management system.
For the optional router lifts, the work surface has CNC-machined openings for a precision fit. 1/16” steel router inserts are also included, which ensure the leveling screws on the router lift remain accurate over time, a very import feature so the work surface and router plate surface are always flush and safe.
The thick-wall, welded steel frame construction with adjustable 2” leveling feet means a sturdy footing while routers are spinning and parts cut or contoured on the router. The gloss clear powder coat finish of the frame is as good looking as it is functional and protective. Machine safety switches with a selectable left or right orientation and all necessary stainless steel mounting hardware are all included in the base system.
Smart Router Table (SRT) System Base Features • Choose two or three bank configurations • 1.25” high pressure, balanced and laminated work top surface • White edge banding and light gray surface (laminated both sides) • Precision CNC router lift openings with threaded inserts • 1/16” steel router inserts • Welded steel frame construction (1/8” wall thick) 3”x 3”and 3”x 6” • Corrosion-resistant gloss clear powder coated finish • 3/8”–16 stainless socket hardware • 2” leveling feet • Machine safety switches (left or right switch orientation)
Smart Router Table (SRT) System Add-Ons • Patent-pending MS Dust Bucket particle management system • MS precision CNC-machined router lifts • A significant savings of both items is included when purchased with the SRT system versus purchased separately.
Prices start at $1829.99. A fully loaded three bank system with MS Dust Buckets and MS router lifts (as pictured top, center and lower right) is $2899.99. All tables are flat packed on a 60”x30” pallet and shipping costs are included in the contiguous 48 US States.
SHREVEPORT LA (02.26.21) WTF…Win This Friday. Car Stereo Max won the Sketch My Ride prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel on Friday morning, March 5th.
The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. Two months ago we celebrated the 2nd Anniversary of the weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel.
The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for 117th time on Friday morning March 5th. The Wheel landed on the Sketch My Ride space. The Car Stereo Max slip was drawn from the jar and an Instagram post of the winning slip was posted. A video of the Wheel spin was also posted. We reached out to Tony at the store in Houston and he was pleased to hear the news.\
Spinning out a winner each Friday, the 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, Accele, PowerBass, CRUX, DS18, SoundStream, AIS, JBL, Design Engineering, Power Acoustik, JVC, ZZ-2 and Sketch My Ride. 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 and Hi-Pro Audio in Victoria TX. Congratulations to all.
WTF… Where’s the Fun. On next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel will be on Friday, March 12th.
TORONTO, CANADA (03.05.2021) – CMA LIVE presented by SiriusXM, entered its second season with a commitment of 20 episodes scheduled for 2021. Premiering on Wednesday, March 3rd at 8pm ET, Ben Woo returned to host Episode 1 of the informative, bi-weekly series that covers all the hottest topics across the mobile electronics industry.
“CMA has established the platforms to connect industry professionals together and our innovative CMA LIVE webcast has gained considerable momentum. We look forward to collaborating with our network of key partners and influential guests to produce an impactful second season,” stated Frank Spezzano, President, CMA.
During CMA Live Episode 1, titled Essential Gear Part 1, Ben Woo conducted informative individual sessions with Rico Felice-MTX, Tommy Spears-Ground Zero, Ken Ward-Hertz and Ernie Welch-Euphoria. Car audio was built on brands and products that deliver hard hitting bass, dynamic output and great value to the enthusiasts. Each of these four brands exemplify the foundation on which car audio built its following.
With each session CMA audiences will be treated to an enhanced production package, along with a slick new look to the broadcast that is sure to engage viewers throughout the year. From covering the latest technology and timely topics to delving deep into specific themes, CMA LIVE is 60 minutes of mobile electronics required viewing.
“What a great opportunity to bring the car audio community together with the best dealers, installers, brands and distributors Canada has to offer. I could not think of a better venue for SiriusXM to be than within this community of passionate professionals,”related Ricky Lima, Senior Manager, Retail & Special Markets, SiriusXM Canada.
CMA LIVE presented by SiriusXM, has expanded its broadcast footprint by extending both live streaming and on-demand viewing to include Facebook, YouTube and now on the official CMA website www.CanadianMobileAudio.com
HOLLY HILL, FL (3.05.2021) – Metra Electronics, the leading manufacturer of aftermarket automotive solutions, is now shipping new dash kits for 2020-up* Nissan Titan models, along with a speaker adapter plate for 2016-up* models, and a dash kit for select 2005-2012 Land Rover LR2, LR3 and Range Rover Sport models.
The 95-7639HG is a Double-DIN dash kit and the 99-7639HG is a Single-DIN dash kit with a pocket, designed for 2020-up* Nissan Titan models. These kits are painted high gloss black to match the factory finish.
A video showcasing these new kits from Metra’s YouTube channel can be viewed below:
To replace the front factory speakers in 2016-up* Nissan Titan models, Metra’s 82-7402 speaker adapter plate allows 6-inch by 9-inch aftermarket speakers to fit without noticeable gaps. These front speaker adapter mounting plates are sold as a pair.
For LandRover, Metra’s new 95-9406B Double-DIN dash kit fits 2008-2012 LR2 models, 2005-2009 LR3 models, and 2006-2009 Range Rover Sport models. It is painted scratch-resistant matte black to match the factory finish and designed for a seamless fit. All of these new products are in stock and shipping now.
Visit MetraOnline.com for up-to-date, vehicle specific information.
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