Discover The All-New Pandora

OAKLAND, CA (12.10.2019) – Pandora has announced that its redesigned mobile experience is now available for all listeners after initially rolling out to select users in October. The new features are designed to enhance discovery and give listeners exposure to Pandora’s vast library of on-demand music and podcasts, personalized content recommendations, and a wide selection of unique programming across all tiers of service: free ad-supported, Pandora Plus, or Pandora Premium.

The features light-up alongside a sweeping, multi-channel brand campaign that boldly weaves music, humor, and a vibrant new visual identity into a fresh narrative for the beloved streaming leader.

“This campaign captures the excitement we see when our users open the new Pandora app and discover that the listening experience they’ve always loved is now even bigger, better, and more in tune with the things they love and the way they live,” said Denise Karkos, Chief Marketing Officer at SiriusXM & Pandora.

The brand campaign combines humor, vibrant visuals, and relentless energy into the latest expression of Pandora’s “life is better with sound on” narrative. Cheeky creative copy implores readers to “Just play the damn song – you can actually do that,” or tells them, “You look nothing like you did ten years ago. Yeah, us too” with old and new images and songs from artists like H.E.R. to drive the point home. Infectious TV spots featuring songs from Halsey, Tones And I, and Normani jump off the screen beneath the tagline “The All-New Pandora: Be You. We’ll Be Your Music.”

“This campaign is all about showing our listeners that Pandora is still the service they know and love, but it looks and feels a whole lot different — a whole lot better. The product is at the center, and we are highlighting the personalized, on-demand content Pandora users want, but may not know we have,” said Brad Minor, VP of Brand Marketing, Creative & Communications at Pandora. “We’re celebrating our listeners in their everyday lives and demonstrating how Pandora has the unique ability to transform each moment by adding the exact right soundtrack at the exact right time.”

In addition to traditional media, Pandora will produce large-scale experiential events, including the unveiling of interactive street murals in key markets, and a live-streamed concert with Halsey that will transform New York’s Times Square into a massive silent disco. In the following weeks, Pandora will continue to engage top-tier artists to create immersive experiences across the U.S., leading up to one of the biggest Pandora / SiriusXM concerts to-date during the biggest weekend in sports.

The new mobile experience includes:

“For You,” a personalized, dynamically-updated discovery feed that serves up fresh, custom-curated music and podcast recommendations for each user throughout the day.

The “Pandora Modes” station customization feature, letting users lean-in on their “lean-back” Pandora listening experience.
A simplified navigation interface for greater ease of use.
Examples of new content include:

Playback 2019 – a personalized year in review of music curated for every Pandora listener.
Pandora’s Top Thumb Hundred 2019 playlist featuring the most thumbed up songs of the year, as well as a ten-year retrospective with the Top Thumb Hundred Songs of 2010-2019.
New and upcoming content from Marvel, Drake, and many more to come.

Visit siriusxm.com and pandora.com for more.

SEMA Truck Industry Award Winners Announced

DIAMOND BAR, CA (12.10.2019) – The SEMA Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) announced the winners of its third annual TORA Awards during the 2019 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The awards are given to members who positively influence the market and to the best new products in the truck industry. Selected by TORA, the TORA SEMA Award winners included:

  • TORA Retailer of the Year: Mike Slater, Eastern Truck and Accessories
  • TORA Influencer of the Year: Jason Sakurai, Roadhouse Marketing
  • TORA Hall of Fame: Joel Ayres, Automotive Concepts
  • TORA Ron Webster Award: Jon Engen, DECKED
  • Best Off-Road New Product: Spydura Nightline Synthetic Winch Rope, Warn Industries Inc.
  • Best Light Truck New Product: Jeep Gladiator Bedside Storage Lockboxes, Bestop Premium Accessories Group
Mike Slater, center, accepted the SEMA Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) Retailer of the Year award on behalf of Eastern Truck and Accessories during the third annual TORA Awards at the 2019 SEMA Show.

“The growth of the light-truck and off-road markets wouldn’t be possible without the continuous efforts of our supporting manufacturers and industry influencers,” said TORA Chairman Erika Marquez. “We are pleased to honor the individuals whose creativity, industriousness and accomplishments have contributed to the success of the light-truck and off-road aftermarket.”

The Retailer of the Year Award, which recognizes a light-truck retailer whose accomplishments have enhanced the stature and growth of the industry, was awarded to off-road shop Eastern Truck and Accessories, from Norfolk, Virginia. In addition to participating in 25–30 local shows per year, Eastern Truck Accessories gives back to the community by donating to local charities, sponsoring youth events and raising money for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Jason Sakurai of Roadhouse Marketing was named Influencer of the Year. As a journalist, Sakurai focuses 100% on trucks, SUVs, off-road and associated markets, including SXS and UTV. He currently writes for OutdoorX4 magazine and their online publication, where he also serves as an ad director.

The TORA Hall of Fame was awarded to Joel Ayres. With more than 40 years of experience in the truck and accessory aftermarket, Ayres’ contributions have earned him leadership roles, including on the SEMA Board of Directors. He is the founder and first chairman of SEMA Cares and has served as a chair of the SEMA Scholarship Committee and LTAA Select Committee. Ayres is active in his community, volunteering his time to multiple education outlets and youth outreach programs.

Jon Engen is the winner of the TORA Ron Webster Memorial Award for Engineering Excellence. A former civil engineer, Engen presented effective solutions to decreasing the weight of truck bed drawers, eventually leading to the success of DECKED. Engen was a veteran of the Norwegian Army and alumni of the University of Oslo.

The award for the Best Off-Road New Product was presented to Warn Industries Inc. for the Spydura Nightline Synthetic Winch Rope. Made from molecular-weight polyethylene with UV-stable coating, the red-and-black weave integrates a 3M light-activated reflective strand into the rope improving visibility during recoveries.

Bestop Premium Accessories Group was awarded Best Light Truck New Product for its Jeep Gladiator Bedside Storage Lockboxes. With easy access from the exterior of the bed, the large storage areas feature fast installation with no drilling, included with tie downs and a nylon net to restrain gear in the main bed and dividers to keep gear in place internally.

Visit sema.org for more.

Petra and Nakamichi Partner to Distribute High-End 12-Volt Products

EDMOND, OK (12.09.2019) – Petra Industries has announced their new partnership with the Nakamichi Car Audio line of premium car audio products.

LEFT: Master cartons of Nakamichi Car Audio products on pallets.
RIGHT: Nakamichi Car Audio speakers on shelves in the Petra warehouse ready to ship.

Nakamichi is a Japanese consumer electronics brand that first built its reputation for excellence with its high-quality and innovative audio cassette and reel-to-reel tape decks. In later years, Nakamichi provided OEM car audio components for high-end luxury cars as well as sold top-quality head units for aftermarket sales. After years of absence, Nakamichi Car Audio is now returning to the U.S. market.

“Nakamichi has a reputation for high-quality products,” said Tate Morgan, Petra President. “We are excited to be partnering with Nakamichi as they return to the United States car audio market, and we are confident Nakamichi will quickly re-establish themselves as a premium brand. Nakamichi is an excellent addition to the Petra lineup of quality 12-volt products, and we are especially pleased to be one of their select distributors.”

“We are pleased to welcome Petra as one of our select regional Nakamichi distributors,” stated Robin McNeal, Nakamichi Car Audio National Sales Manager.

Be sure to see Nakamichi at the CES 2020 booth 3621 North Hall LVCC.

Petra carries over two dozen Nakamichi products, including DVD, CD, and mechless car receivers, subwoofers, amps, car speakers, car cameras, and dash cams. There are also several system packages of single-DIN receivers and speakers.

To learn more about Nakamichi Car Audio products, visit order.petra.com

Drop Your Guard with Brandmotion CurbAlert

SOUTHFIELD, MI (12.09.2019) – There’s a lot of discussion out there around the bright protective covers that companies put on splitters to protect them during shipping. Some customers continue to leave these bright shipping pieces on their new, high-performance car or SUV so they don’t damage the splitter when parking. The patented Brandmotion CurbAlert Parking Sensor system gives you peace of mind when parking that you won’t damage your splitter (and you get to take the look of the vehicle back to what it was meant to be).

Key Product Features:

  • Professional grade version designed for the professional 12 Volt Installer, with ignition key on/off control
  • Provides low-speed curb and parking warnings for any vehicle to prevent expensive curb damage
  • Prevents embarrassing moments when your fascia scrapes over or worse – catches on a curb
  • Adjustable warning distance from 12-30 inches to curb or garage wall
  • Sophisticated weather-proof infrared sensor
  • Simple self-calibration procedure once during install
  • Draws 35 milliamps when activated
  • Sensor dimensions: 1″ tall x 1.5″ wide x 2″ deep
  • Adjustable warning volume from low to high
  • No drill, universal application (4 different installation bracket designs included)
  • Easily removed from your vehicle with no after-marks

Click here to view a product video on Vimeo.

For product information, click here. Visit brandmotion.com for more.

SEMA Market Research: Retailers Adapt to a Changing Landscape

DIAMOND BAR, CA (12.09.2019) – Last year, nearly one-third of specialty-automotive parts sales were made online. And 79% of specialty-automotive retailers expect online sales growth to have a significant impact on the industry over the next few years. This growth is driven by changing consumer behavior. Customers now have more outlets to research specs, compare brands and purchase products than ever before.

As a result, many retailers are adapting to a customer base that is more informed about brands and products, more aware of price differences and may be less loyal to any retailer. Nearly two-thirds of retailers have added or grown their social-media presence to reach more customers effectively. And 59% find that providing advice and expertise offers a way to stand out in the market rather than competing on price.

To learn more about the key challenges and opportunities specialty-automotive retailers are facing, download the “SEMA Retail Landscape Report,” now available for free at www.sema.org/research

DS18 in the 36th Annual Santa’s Parade of the Elves

SOUTH MIAMI, FL (12.06.2019) – DS18 rocked along the parade route in the 36th Annual Santa’s Parade of the Elves on Sunday, December 1st, in South Miami. Along the 8 block parade DS18’s 2 Jeeps plus a Camaro and two additional vehicles to let all know at DS18 “We Like It Loud.”

DS18 rolled down the parade route packed with excited kids jumping and waving with big smiles on their faces.

A number of schools in the Miami area came together to celebrate. The streets were filled with floats, horses, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts and marching bands along with Santa and Mrs. Claus. 

DS18 Jeeps and a Camaro ready to roll down the parade route.

DS18 Team members Rob and his young son along with Gustavo, Yohan, Yeri and Mari enjoyed the very warm sunny day and Holiday Festivities.

DS18 staff members with family plus Parade Court and friends pictured after the Santa’s Parade of the Elves concluded.

Rob Ferro, Mr DS18, stated “The parade was such a great event. Seeing kids along the parade that were so happy. They were waving, jumping up and down with big smiles on their faces. We were playing Christmas music in our DS18 vehicles and that added to the Christmas parade atmosphere.
Grand Marshals of the Santa’s Parade of the Elves were local NBC 6 reporters Julia and Marissa Bagg.”

Visit ds18.com for more.

BOSS Audio Launches New All-in-One Weather Resistant Powersports Bluetooth Soundbar

OXNARD, CA (12.06.2019) – BOSS Audio Systems has announced the launch of its new weather resistant 450 Watt (Max) all-in-one Bluetooth soundbar. Now shipping, the 6.5-inch ATV65BRGB (MAP: $149.99) is compatible with the audio output of Smartphones and MP3 Players.

Click here to visit the ATV65BRGB product page.

“The self-powered, Bluetooth-enabled, IPX5-rated ATV65BRGB is the ideal soundbar for Powersports applications,” explained Jason Hannon, head of BOSS Audio’s Powersports lineup. “The aux in and Bluetooth connectivity allows the user to stream and control their favorite apps hard-wired or wirelessly directly from their smart device, putting their favorite music, such as from Spotify or Pandora, directly at their fingertips. Ruggedly built for all terrains, 450 Watts of power and RGB illumination make this soundbar look as great as it sounds wherever your ATV, UTV, or Side by Side may take you.”

Additional features and specifications of the ATV65BRGB include:
• Weatherproof 1-inch tweeters
• 3.5mm Aux input
• Controlled via Smartphone or MP3 player
• Frequency Response 45Hz – 22kHz

“BOSS Audio recently relaunched the brand in both looks and expanded products offerings,” Hannon concluded. “The ATV65BRGB is just the latest of our added Powersports offerings sure to excite the Side by Side, ATV, and UTV enthusiast.”

Visit www.bossaudio.com for more.

DEI Introduces Black Floor & Tunnel Shield

AVON LAKE, OH (12.05.2019) – DEI now offers its popular Floor & Tunnel Shield in an attractive deep matte black finish providing a new option for underhood aesthetics. Manufactured with a high temperature thermal coating, it is ideal for protecting electronic components from damage while keeping the vehicle’s interior cool and comfortable.

Easy to shape and designed with a low profile that is only 3/16” thick, the shield can be used most anywhere to block heat – firewalls, transmission tunnels, under floor boards, fuel cells and more. Simply trim to fit, then peel and stick to install. The aggressive high temperature adhesive backing keeps the shield securely in place with minimal to no affect from wind, water or adverse weather conditions.

DEI’s Black Floor & Tunnel Shield is available now in either a 7 sq. ft. or 14 sq. ft. size – 21” x 48” (part #050552) or 42” x 48” (part #050549). Both can be purchased wherever DEI heat and sound control are sold.

For more information about DEI’s new Black Floor & Tunnel Shield and many other new products, visit www.DesignEngineering.com.

Jeeps on the Run Toys for Tots Gathered 4,800 Toys

CHICAGO, IL (12.04.2019) – The 7th Annual Toys for Tots Run, presented by Jeeps on the Run, was a HOME RUN! Nearly 700 Jeeps, and a crowd estimated at 2000 Jeepers, were on site at Napleton’s Northwest Jeep Dealership in Chicago IL for the event on Sunday, December 1.

This overhead shows Jeeps filling the Napleton’s Jeep dealership. More Jeeps were parked across the street.

Mike Missak, the driving force behind and coordinating the event, stated “4800 toys were donated along with $20,000 in merchandise. Two 7-ton Marine Reserve trucks were needed to haul away the toys. We thank Alpine for donating 2 new in-dash X409-WRA-JL Navigation Systems. The success of this event is always a community effort and we thank all for everyone’s support.”

The Napleton’s Jeep showroom was wall-to-wall Jeepers.
Chris Reavis conducted demos throughout the day in this Jeep decked with Alpine.

Missak owns a local specialty retail business Insomnia LED in the Chicago suburb of McHenry. Insomnia LED provides professional work geared to best lighting for cars, trucks, motorcycles, side-by-sides and marine. Missak started the Annual Toys for Tots Jeeps on the Run event 6 years ago and there were 35 Jeeps at the initial event. “We didn’t know what to expect with the first event. At that time we saw the opportunity to help bring some Christmas cheer to youngsters in need. As this Toys for Tots event grew we had a lot of help along the way and we are very grateful to all those who have helped grow this annual event” Missak added.

These 2 Marine Reserve 7-Ton Trucks hauled away 4800 toys.
Mike Missak’s children hold a Certificate of Appreciation from the local Marine reserve as volunteers and Marine Reserve members gathered for a photo.

Alpine staff members on site at Napleton’s Jeep included Dan Sparks and Chris Reavis along with area Alpine representative Rob Osheaski-Echo Sales. Reavis, Alpine Brand Specialist, provided demos to members of the huge crowd throughout the day in Napleton’s packed showroom.

Alpine was set to demo products and the only vendor in the Napleton’s showroom.

Osheaski related to 12volt News “The Jeeps on the Run Toys for Tots event was really amazing. It’s hard for many people to believe there were nearly 700 Jeeps at any event. When people see the images they believe and say WOW. The Napleton’s huge showroom was absolutely filled with Jeepers from wall-to-wall. Having that many people experience Alpine products for their Jeeps was tremendous. Having Chris doing demos of the Alpine system in the Jeep in the showroom was huge. Dan, and I, spent the day answering questions for members of the crowd about Alpine gear for their Jeeps.”

Wall-To-Wall Jeeps in the Napleton’s parking lot.

A big 12volt News ‘Hat’s Off’ to all who contributed to this very successful Toys for Tots event.

Visit jeepsontherun.weebly.com and toysfortots.org for more.

JVCKENWOOD Expands Training & Product Support Team

LONG BEACH, CA (12.05.2019) – JVCKENWOOD USA has hired Josh Bowen and Marcus Vasconcellos as Mobile Electronics Product Specialists for the company’s car electronics division. These new positions will provide enhanced support to JVC and KENWOOD retailers, reps, and distributors through training, advanced technical assistance, and event support. 

Josh Bowen brings 10 years of retail mobile electronics experience, serving in various aspects of sales, installation, and management, most recently serving as sales/installation manager for Sommer Sound Systems in Panama City, FL.  Josh’s drive for the industry shines clearly, boasting a Top 50 Installer of the Year position in the 2019 Mobile Electronics Industry Awards.  

Marcus Vasconcellos is a 17-year industry veteran who also comes directly from the retail circuit.  He has served in various capacities including sales, installation, and marketing in the lower Midwest for stores including Audio Tech in Lawton, OK and Big Daddy’s Stereo in Longview, TX.  Marcus’s passion for 12 Volt doesn’t stop with his custom fabrication and design skills, but also becomes evident with his love for music.

“Bowen and Vasconcellos are the perfect additions to the team, being able to relate and communicate seamlessly with dealers through their direct and recent 12 Volt retail sales and installation experience,” said Scott Caswell, Senior Marketing Manager for JVCKENWOOD USA.  “As we develop new and innovative ways to reach and support our dealers in a rapidly changing industry, we will be able to leverage their skill sets accordingly.” 

These new positions will be largely split East and West of the Mississippi, with Bowen focusing on JVC and KENWOOD dealers and events to the East, and Vasconcellos to the West. They will report directly to Seth Halstead, National Training and Content Development Manager, of whom will be able to further focus on and work with them to create training materials, including on-line materials and video content.

Bowen commented, “I couldn’t be happier to be a part of such an amazing organization that is focused on providing solutions that meet the needs of sales, installers, and consumers.”

Vasconcellos added “This is an incredible time to be a part of a growing company that is committed to the future of the 12 Volt industry!”

Bowen can be reached at jbowen@us.jvckenwood.com, and Vasconcellos can be reached at mvasconcellos@us.jvckenwood.com.

Visit us.jvckenwood.com for more.