Author: 12VoltNews

559 Car Stereo & Alarm Drives Business With The Total In-Store Experience

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FRESNO, CA (8.01.25) – The in-store experience is more important than ever to drive brick and mortar sales. The ever-growing AI universe and online activity is adding to the problems today for all categories of brick and mortar retailers across the board.

The in-store experience actually begins outside with the appearance of a 12volt retailer’s store from the street. 559 Car Stereo & Alarm in Fresno CA in a prime example. Sako Topalian and his team do a great job. Attention grabbing vehicles are placed in front of the store for photo ops used for social media posts. Each vehicle is positioned so the 559 signage is visible for the post.

The in-store experience continues as customers are spotlighted at the sales counter with the products they just purchased. In the background the impressive showroom display is visible. All customers have happy smiles on their faces for the image that will be in a 559 Car Stereo post.

A conversation on the phone with Sako was another engaging experience for 12volt staff. Sako answered the phone wanted to have a conversation. Business is super at their location all their staff members go over and above to greet customers and spend time to learn how 559 Stereo can deliver the best for their customer’s in-vehicle experience.

Proactive independent brick and mortar retailers have another huge ace in a hole. The in-store experience of demonstrating top quality sound with orchestrated indoor live demonstrations with customers in their showroom. Live music enthusiast have been spending billions of dollars to see Taylor Swift and Beyoncé concerts. Proactive 12volt retailers can take those concerts to the consumers’ vehicles without all the crowd aggravation within store demos. They’re happy customers can continue enjoying their favorite artist concerts for free and in a much better concert hall… Their Vehicles.

Key cards in the deck for 12volt retailers to play every day!

Offering expert installation is another big ace in the hole tool proactive 12volt brick and mortar retailers must play to be successful in this ever changing marketplace.

Stay tuned as more proactive 12volt retailers, like 559 Car Stereo & Alarm, will be spotlighted.

For more @559 Car Stereo & Alarm

Tri-State Enterprises Announces Expansion into Harlingen, TX

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HARLINGEN, TX (08.01.25) – Tri-State Enterprises, a leading warehouse distributor of automotive aftermarket hard parts, consumables, and accessories, has announced the opening of their eighth cross dock located in Harlingen, TX. Tri-State is supported by HCI Equity Partners, a private equity firm headquartered in Washington, D.C.

Tri-State Enterprises is proud to announce the opening of a new cross-dock facility in Harlingen, Texas, marking a significant step in our continued growth and commitment to providing best-in-class service throughout the region.

This strategic expansion will strengthen our footprint across South Texas, enabling faster, more efficient deliveries and improved service for our customers in the area. The Harlingen facility will operate with daily deliveries sourced from our Arlington distribution center, ensuring reliable and timely access to the full range of DDG’s aftermarket hard parts, consumables, and accessories.

“Our new Harlingen cross dock reflects our ongoing investment in infrastructure and customer service,” said Junior Calvert, General Manager of Texas. “By increasing our logistical capabilities in South Texas, we’re better positioned to meet demand and support our partners with the speed and consistency they expect.”

The Harlingen expansion is part of a broader initiative to optimize delivery routes, reduce transit times, and enhance inventory availability across key markets.

For more information, please visit hciequity.com and tristatepartsplus.com.

SEMA Statement On Proposed Repeal Of 2009 GHG Endangerment Finding

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WASHINGTON, DC (08.01.25) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) today issued the following statement in response to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) beginning the rulemaking to overturn the 2009 “endangerment” finding on greenhouse gases and repeal the greenhouse gas standards for light- and medium-duty motor vehicles:

For years, we’ve witnessed firsthand the damage inflicted by the so-called “endangerment” finding of 2009, including its brazen use by the EPA under previous administrations and by California to mandate the sale of electric vehicles (EVs) and ban the sale of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. ICE vehicles remain the bedrock upon which the American people – families, small businesses, and automotive enthusiasts – rely to live their best, most prosperous lives, and to ban them is an affront to the American way of life. SEMA thanks Administrator Zeldin and the Trump Administration for pursuing common-sense reforms that prioritize the American people and our nation’s economy. This announcement marks a significant policy shift that preserves vehicle choice and strikes a blow to the coordinated, nationwide efforts of unelected activist policymakers and environmental groups to dictate the kinds of vehicles Americans can drive.

SEMA will provide comments in support of this proposed rule and elevate the voice of the automotive aftermarket and the millions of automotive enthusiasts who believe in liberty, vehicle choice, and a strong national economy that fosters ingenuity, innovation, and investment.

BACKGROUND
The EPA’s proposed rule will directly impact federal new car requirements and does not impact existing emissions laws established by the Clean Air Act. Instead, the proposed rule will ensure that automakers produce vehicles driven by consumer demand, rather than greenhouse gas limits, that latter of which has significantly influenced the models of vehicles available to the American people since 2009. This policy shift will directly impact the range of new vehicle choices that exist in the coming years.

  • SEMA will review the proposed rule to identify any potential additional impacts to the specialty automotive aftermarket, even as the rule is not expected to impact Clean Air Act requirements related to the maintenance of emissions controls after a vehicle has been purchased.

SEMA has an unimpeachable track record advocating for vehicle choice and policies that empower the American businesses that make up the automotive aftermarket to innovate and bring great ideas to the market. As the leading voice in Washington, D.C., during the fight to end electric vehicle (EV) mandates, SEMA gave voice to people to who believe in vehicle choice, beginning in 2023 via state-based efforts to preserve technology-neutral government policy, and culminating with an historic, bipartisan effort to halt a California-led effort to ban ICE vehicles through EV mandates for 40% of the nation’s population.

  • SEMA is not, nor will it ever be, anti-EV; rather, it champions a technology-neutral approach that fosters innovation and ingenuity.

The association will continue efforts to preserve Americans’ rights to vehicle choice and the automotive aftermarket industry’s ability to design, manufacture and bring to market products that help solve the emissions challenge. 

For more information, visit www.sema.org.

Avenue Sound Hosted Battle Of The Boom 2.0

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PATCHOGUE, NY (07.31.25) – The Battle of the Boom 2.0 was back and better than ever at the Avenue Sound location in Patchogue on Sunday, July 27th. It was a day filled with fun, excitement and big deals with the employee pricing for all and enthusiasts competing.

Vic Moolchandani stated “The last Battle of the Boom that we did was in 2019. With COVID lasting for years and the overall activity across the 12volt industry we brought the Battle of the Boom back again this year. We have a large parking lot in front of our store that will hold 25 or 30 cars. In planning for our event, we contacted the city and they agreed to block off the short street behind our location. That presented an opportunity for us to have more vehicles behind the store.”

Overall, there were 60 to 70 vehicles on site and it was a great opportunity for vehicle owners to show off their systems, compete in the sound off and show systems and lighting installed on their vehicles and bikes. Unfortunately, there was a little rain about noon that slowed things down a bit.

Light rain and cloudy sky did not dampen the spirit at the Battle of the Boom 2.0.

Concluding Moolchandani stated “We had raffles and trophies for winners plus we had great support from our vendor partners… including JBL, Kenwood, Pioneer, ZZ2, and Kicker with bags, stickers and some T-shirts for giveaways. Overall, this was a great event and we look forward to the next event in 2016. A big thank you to our staff for their hard work.”

Raffle winners give a thumbs up in the showroom with their prizes.

Avenue Sound is a family owned business with a strong community history with stores in Freeport and Patchogue NY.

Great to see proactive retailers hosting events to drive awareness for 12 product categories in their marketplace… and business!

For more see avenuesound.com

2025 SEMA Show Education Program Revs Up with Free Training Sessions

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (07.31.25) – Attendees at the 2025 SEMA Show, held November 4-7 in Las Vegas, will have several opportunities to develop new skills, connect with industry leaders, and foster business strategies as part of this year’s SEMA Education Program. The fully reimagined lineup of free, expert-led training sessions will bring value and insight to the thousands of industry professionals in attendance at the world’s leading automotive trade show.

Hosted in the centrally located, recently renovated North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center, the SEMA Education Program will run from Tuesday, November 4, through Thursday, November 6, offering a dynamic experience that complements the high-energy learning environment experienced on the Show floor.

“We invite all attendees and exhibitors to advance their professional and business growth during the Show,” said Gary Vigil, SEMA Senior Manager of Professional Development. “The SEMA Show has always provided learning and self-advancement opportunities through education, and this year we are offering free sessions within eight education tracks to address the key subjects that are influencing the aftermarket today.”

Education Tracks
The eight education tracks categorize sessions according to subject matter, allowing attendees to easily find programs that fit their professional interests:

  • Aftermarket Updates and Future Trends: Explore the current state of the specialty-equipment market and the long/short-term impacts of top trends.
  • Emerging and Executive Leadership: The Dale Carnegie Organization will illustrate how to listen and communicate with a workforce that encompasses differing generations, and the SEMA Women’s Leadership Symposium will empower leaders with the skills, mindset, and strategies needed to drive exceptional performance.
  • Inside the Shop: Technicians, shop managers, and builders will discuss trends and challenges that shop owners currently face.
  • Legislative and Regulatory: Learn about current changes and misconceptions in emissions compliance. Discover how to manage risks, ensure compliance, and drive business success.
  • Sales and Marketing: Understand how to engage your audience using Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook, and gain insights from top industry sales and marketing experts.
  • Small Business Strategy: Find hacks and tools to help grow your business. Learn how to leverage AI, use cloud computing and entrepreneurial operating systems (EOS), or run a functional family business while avoiding a feud.
  • Talent Management: Turn your team into a well-run machine by learning how to hire and retain young talent through training, management, and motivation.
  • Vehicle Technology: Stay up-to-date on the latest changes in advanced fuels and powertrains, suspension technology, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

Partnered Programs
Training sessions, both free and fee-based, from the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR), Tire Industry Association (TIA), and Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) will broaden the range of specialized courses offered at the 2025 SEMA Show:

  • I-CAR will host courses on MIG welding, safety protocols for working on electric vehicles with high-voltage systems, and modifying or repairing cars with ADAS functionalities.
  • TIA will offer sessions that can help tire retailers protect themselves from liability, navigate the current employment market, and retain talent.
  • SCRS will show attendees how to put their business on a path of maximum efficiency, gain an online presence, and identify incoming trends and technologies.

“The SEMA Education Program embodies our commitment to empowering the automotive community through knowledge, innovation, and collaboration,” said Andy Tompkins, SEMA Trade Show Director. “With free, expert-led sessions tailored to every corner of the industry, this year’s program is more dynamic than ever.”

Sign up for education sessions while registering for the Show or log into your Registration Resource Center to add sessions to your agenda. For more information about the 2025 SEMA Show Education Program and to get involved, visit www.semashow.com/education. For information about the 2025 SEMA Show or to register, visit www.semashow.com. To view this year’s floorplan, log on to www.semashow.com/floorplan.

Vinland Introduces Next-Gen Infotainment System

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FAIRVIEW, TN (07.31.25) – Vinland, a premium automotive electronics brand, and Elite Distributor Alliance (EDA) today announced a strategic partnership to expand the availability of Vinland’s VISION series vehicle-specific car stereos across the United States. This collaboration pairs EDA’s powerful distribution capabilities with Vinland’s advanced infotainment solutions to deliver a superior in-car technology experience.

Introducing the VISION Series by Vinland
The VISION Series represents the next generation of custom-fit infotainment systems, built to integrate seamlessly with specific vehicle platforms. Equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon octa-core processor, 8GB RAM, and 128GB storage, the VISION Series runs Android 13 operation system and features a vibrant 1280×720 QLED touchscreen for a fluid and responsive user experience.

Key Features:

  • Seamless Integration: iDatalink Maestro compatibility and Vinland’s V-Control apps offer full access to factory features, climate settings, parking assist, and more.
  • Smart Connectivity: Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto, dual Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX/aptX HD, 4G LTE, and Wi-Fi hotspot.
  • AI & Smart Apps: Built-in AI assistant, Google Play access, real-time GPS tracking, route playback, and OTA firmware updates.
  • Safety Features: Front and rear recording cameras (sold separately), 1080P recording, G-sensor collision detection, and parking surveillance.
  • Advanced Audio/Video: 4x49W amplifier with DSP, 36-band EQ, time alignment, crossovers, 6 RCA pre-outs: Front, Rear and Subwoofer (4V), HDMI input, SPDIF optical and coaxial output.
  • User-Centric Interface: Customizable home screen and ultra-fast 2-second boot time.

Vehicle Compatibility
The VISION Series is available for a wide range of popular models, including:

  • Jeep Wrangler (JL) 2018–2023
  • Jeep Gladiator (JT) 2019–2023
  • Jeep Grand Cherokee 2011–2020
  • Chevrolet Silverado 2014–2019
  • GMC Sierra 2014–2019
  • Ram 1500 (Manual & Auto AC) 2013–2018
  • Ford F-150 2009–2012
  • Toyota Tacoma 2005–2023
  • Toyota RAV4 2019–2021
  • Toyota 4Runner 2010–2019
  • Toyota Tundra 2007–2021
  • Toyota Camry 2015–2020
  • Honda Accord 2013–2015
  • Subaru Outback 2010–2017
  • Subaru Forester / WRX / WRX STI 2016–2021

Nationwide Availability Through EDA
Members of the EDA Distribution Group will oversee the nationwide rollout of the Vision Series across all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Authorized Vinland Dealers will be equipped to offers customers swift system upgrades, ensuring fast and seamless service delivery.

Executive Statements
“Vinland’s partnership with ADS to combine Vinland’s Vehicle Specific solutions with Maestro technology is a homerun.” said Josh Eatherly, Executive Vice President of EDA. “This partnership reflects our commitment to providing dealers with top-tier technology and tailored solutions.”

Chuanyi Cai (Michael), General Manager of Vinland added, “We’re thrilled to collaborate with EDA Distribution Group, whose reputation and reach allow us to bring the VISION Series to more vehicles and more drivers across the country. Their logistics and support are key to delivering an exceptional experience.”

Availability
Vinland’s VISION Series vehicle-specific stereos are now available through EDA Distribution Group members nationwide. For information about availability, pricing, or becoming an authorized dealer, please contact your local EDA distributor.

The 29th Annual Sanford Sound Show N’ Shine Definitely Shined On Sunday July 27th

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SANFORD, ME (07.30.25) – “This year’s Show N’ Shine was the fifth at our new location and was terrific even though the weather was not cooperative with clouds in the morning and rain in the afternoon. This year we were packed at our 29th Annual Show N’ Shine as we had over 160 cars registered. It seemed almost every square foot of our property was filled with Show N’ Shine cars and activities. Vehicles and tents even lined the ground along Highway 4 in both directions” owner Jack Bogard related.

This drone overhead shot from over the top of Sanford Sound location looks out to the street.
This drone shot shows the front and the back area of the Sanford Sound location.

Continuing “Saturday the Sanford Sound Team spent the day getting everything ready for the Show N’ Shine. Local business owners said they had never seen Route 4 so busy on Sunday” Bogard offered.

“Eighteen area businesses were on site showing their products that 12volt enthusiasts could utilize. Vehicle restoration, lift modifications, stickers and more were offered. Food trucks were on site and the lemonade stand reported selling over 300 refreshments..snow cones too. The Becker BBQ trailer was packed and the BBQ was so good. We also had several clubs attend the Show N’ Shine in big numbers. Also, we had a number of cars with out of state license plates… including Connecticut, Vermont, New York and Rhode Island. I was in the golf cart with MS Sanford Sound handing out freebees from vendors and it got a lot of attention. The bounce house and demos in the RZR and van got plenty of attendees smiling” Bogard added.

Sanford Sound team members out front under the tent. (LtoR) Indigo, Bill, Tim, Jack Bogard, Justin, Steve, Ivan and Nate.
This custom Camaro Hot Rod definitely got attention.

Jacob Gromovsky rolled with a Sony vehicle over 1100 miles from Georgia to be on site at the Sanford Sound Show N’ Shine.

Area Memphis Audio rep Chad Boone was in the house. Boone related “The Sanford Sound Show N’ Shine was the most amazing dealer show I have attended. The turnout of attendees and cool cars created excitement in the air. The bounce house was right behind our booth and drew a lot of traffic for demos in our loaded RZR.”

The Memphis Audio booth was set up early by Chad Boone with the bounce house just behind.
Just a few of the cars positioned out front.

Bogard concluded “A really big thing for us at a Sanford Sound Show N’ Shine event is seeing all the happy, smiling faces. Members of the crowd were showing their rides and checking out other’s rides.The level of customization of the vehicles in the show this year was amazing. Long term this will lead to residual business for us at Sanford Sound. A huge shout out to all, especially family and staff who participated in, and contributed to, the very successful 29th Annual Sanford Sound Show N’ Shine. To cap the day for our team members and family enjoyed a well deserved catered dinner that all enjoyed in our installation area.”

After the show wrapped on Sunday evening, members of the Sanford Sound Team and family gathered for a delicious catered dinner in the installation area.

Sanford, ME is a town of just over 20,000. Sanford Sound is a responsible business member of the community and hires local police to be on site to help with the increased traffic for the event which packed Route 4 on Sunday afternoon.

For more see sanfordsound.com and @sanfordsound.

Firstech Unveils FTX Dash Camera: Empowering Dealerships with High-Value, In-Demand Accessory

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SEATTLE, WA (07.30.25) – Firstech, the award-winning innovator behind leading vehicle security solutions, today announced the launch of the FTX dash camera, a sleek 4K dash camera designed specifically for automotive dealerships and expeditors. The FTX empowers dealerships to offer a highly sought-after accessory at the point of sale or service, meeting growing consumer demand for reliable in-car video recording.

The surge in viral dash camera footage has dramatically increased public awareness and desire for dash cameras. However, consumers are uncertain regarding where to purchase these products and secure proper installation. The FTX dash camera fills this crucial gap, providing auto dealerships with a high-value attachment that capitalizes on this demand and establishing them as a trusted source for dash cameras.

“We recognized a significant opportunity for dealerships to enhance their accessory programs and provide genuine value to their customers,” said Jason Kaminski, Firstech’s Managing Director. “The FTX dash camera is not just a premium 4K recording device; it’s a strategic tool for dealerships to boost revenue, improve customer satisfaction, and leverage the increasing popularity of dash cam technology.”

The FTX dash camera delivers crystal-clear 4K resolution, ensuring every detail on the road is captured with precision. As a brand exclusive to auto dealerships, FTX ensures no retail channel competition, solidifying its value proposition for partners.

Key Features of the FTX Dash Camera:

  • 4K Ultra HD Recording: Powered by a premium Sony image sensor.
  • Dealership-Exclusive Brand: No retail channel or online competition ensures partner profitability.
  • Streamlined Installation: FTX dash cameras can be installed using the hardwired harness or plug-and-play OBD-II adapter, both retaining crucial parking mode functionality
  • Easy-to-Use Smartphone App: Facilitates convenient video download and management to iOS or Android devices.
  • High-Demand Accessory: Taps into the booming market for dash cameras.
  • North American Customer Service: Toll-free and online support and industry-leading 3-year warranty on all FTX products.

Firstech is committed to supporting its partners with high-quality products and robust programs. The FTX dash camera is poised to become a critical component for dealerships looking to expand their accessory portfolio and cater to the evolving needs of modern drivers.

Availability:
The FTX dash camera is now available for order by automotive dealerships, expeditors, and 12 retailers servicing dealerships. Interested business partners can contact orders@myfirstech.com.
Strict territory restrictions may apply

Powerbass PB Series Amplifiers In Stock Now

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ONTARIO, CA (07.30.25) – While borrowing some elements from our former ACS series, the new PB Series offers upgraded features, terminals and a dual layer PCB all packed in the most compact chassis allowable.

To accomplish this we selected SMD parts and engineered a brand new high density heat sink engineered for maximum efficiency and cooling. The result, an all new line-up of two, four, five and mono channel models that offer amazing performance and fantastic value.

Ultra efficient, the PB Series amplifiers produce outstanding low distortion high fidelity audio in a footprint small enough to fit nicely in nearly any vehicle. The PB Series Amplifiers provide the perfect mix of performance and style and all models are in stock now!

  • Upgraded 45 DegreeTerminal Design
  • Mono Blocks / Multi-Channel Models
  • Double Layer PGB
  • Variable Subsonic Filter
  • Low Level RCA Inputs
  • High Level Input (Not available on 5Ch Model)
  • Remote Soft Delay Turn On/Off Circuit
  • HPF/LPF Filter Selection Full Range Models
  • LPF Filter Selection Mono Block Models
  • Variable Gain Control
  • Calibrated Visual Clip Indicator
  • Wired Secondary Remote Gain Control – Sold Separately (PB-GAIN1)
  • Protection Circuit: Impedance Over-load, Speaker Short, Circuit, Thermal Overheating, and DC Output

Visit powerbassusa.com for more.

Two Nights of Sony Training, Two Unforgettable Experiences – GoFast Solutions

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MIDDLETOWN, CT (07.29.25) – The first night brought dealers together at our Middletown headquarters for a high-impact training session with Sony’s Global Product Training Manager, Kris Bulla. Known for his deep knowledge and engaging delivery, Kris kept the room locked in with insightful strategies on selling Sony’s Core and Mobile ES product lines, along with real-world technical tips that dealers could take back to their shops the next day.

President & CEO David Prinz Chilling’ n Grilling’

As if that wasn’t enough, attendees were treated to a home-style BBQ dinner, grilled and served by none other than GoFast President and Founder, David Prinz. It was a night that felt like a family cookout—paired with world-class training.

Night Two: Dave & Buster’s – Natick, MA

The energy didn’t stop there. On night two, we brought the action to Dave & Buster’s in Natick, MA, where our Boston-area dealers showed up in force. Kris delivered once again, this time bringing his “football coach” style to the stage — pushing the crowd to think differently, dig deeper, and elevate their approach to selling Sony.

Dave & Busters Natick, Ma
Sony’s Global Trainer Kris Bulla

Between the great food, the high-energy environment, and the opportunity to connect with peers, the Natick event had all the makings of a winning playbook for success.

Industry Respect, Dealer Engagement
GoFast VP of Sales Bob Hernandez captured the impact of the events perfectly:

“Kris Bulla is one of the rare voices in our industry whose reputation isn’t just well known — it’s earned. Dealers traveled from all over to hear him speak, and nearly three hours later, not a single person had left. That kind of engagement speaks volumes. They didn’t just attend — they wanted more.”

Thank You, Sony Team
We want to give a huge thank you to Kris Bulla, Jake Gromovsky, and the entire Sony team for their time, effort, and dedication. These two nights weren’t just about product knowledge — they were about empowering our dealers, strengthening partnerships, and building momentum for what’s next.

Visit gofst.com and sony.com for more.